BOYS' BASKETBALL KEEPS ON TOP AMID TURBULENCE.

Byline: SEAN CEGLINSKY Staff Writer

The Valencia High boys' basketball team has had its share of ups and downs over the past two months, beginning with the loss of several key players to graduation and ending with the absence of coach Rocket Collins, who was hospitalized for hernia surgery two weeks ago.

The Vikings, however, persevered and ended the summer on a good note, advancing to the consolation championship of this past weekend's UC San Diego Tournament before losing to Corona del Mar of Newport Beach.

``Looking at the big picture, we did well,'' said assistant coach Greg Hayes, who assumed added responsibility in Collins' absence. ``We found a way to get things done.''

Valencia's starting five for the 2005 season consisted of Teddy Goetz, D.J. Kakonde, Erick Sevilla, Chet Wyche and Kevin Delange, all of whom were seniors, along with super-subs K.C. Arbogast and Jason Nicholson.

All told, 10 upperclassmen graduated in June, and finding replacements for the production as well as the leadership has proved to be a daunting task thus far.

Mickey Crockett, Ralph Anumba, Shane Vereen and John Otavka return with limited varsity experience and Vereen hasn't been able to play much over the summer due to his commitments with the football team.

``We're not worried about wins and losses right now anyways. That's secondary.''

``We were looking for growth and development. We took steps forward in that regard. It was a great learning experience for everyone.''

Rocket update: Collins, 52, was released from Providence Holy Cross Medical Center in Mission Hills a little more than a week ago and is good condition following surgery.

``I'm feeling great,'' Collins said. ``I'm able to get out once in a while and sneak to a movie. I've been kicking back and watching a lot of baseball, too.

The Vikings will have the next month or so off and will resume practice once school begins on Aug. 17, a date Collins has targeted for his return as well.

``My assistants have done an excellent job while I've been gone,'' Collins said. ``I can't wait to get back again and do my part.''

sean.ceglinsky(at)dailynews.com

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