Christopher Boys Basketball Finishes Second in League, Reaches CCS Semifinals

The Cougars overcame a roster overhaul to continue their recent run of success, winning 19 games and advancing to the NorCal playoffs.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:12pm

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Despite graduating a talented senior class, the Christopher High School boys basketball team had another strong season, finishing second in the highly competitive Blossom Valley Athletic League Hamilton Division and reaching the Central Coast Section Division II semifinals. Led by a mix of returning players and new contributors, the Cougars won 19 games and qualified for the NorCal playoffs for the fifth straight year.

Why it matters

Christopher has established itself as one of the top boys basketball programs in the region, consistently competing at a high level even as the roster turns over. The team's ability to maintain its success despite significant graduation losses speaks to the strong coaching, player development, and team chemistry within the program.

The details

The Cougars were led by a balanced scoring attack, with Anton Mendezona, Trey Caragio, Quinn Ledesma-Old Elk, and Vidal Nzoyem all making major contributions. After a 3-3 start, the team went on a winning streak and finished 19-8 overall, 9-3 in league play to take second place. They defeated Aragon in the CCS Division II playoffs before falling to West Catholic Athletic League power St. Francis in the semifinals.

  • The Cougars began the pre-season 3-3 before going on a winning streak.
  • Christopher finished the regular season 19-8, 9-3 in league play to take second place.
  • The Cougars defeated Aragon in the CCS Division II playoffs on March 1, 2026.
  • Christopher lost to St. Francis in the CCS Division II semifinals on March 5, 2026.
  • The Cougars' season ended with a 73-59 loss to Palma in the NorCal Division III playoffs on March 8, 2026.

The players

Anton Mendezona

A returning starter in the Cougars' backcourt.

Trey Caragio

A returning starter in the Cougars' backcourt.

Quinn Ledesma-Old Elk

A returning starter in the Cougars' frontcourt.

Vidal Nzoyem

A transfer who provided a strong inside presence for the Cougars.

Adam Sax

The head coach of the Christopher High School boys basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“We did better than what we and people thought.”

— Anton Mendezona, Player

“We played with energy and passion today. When we move the ball, execute and share, we get better results. And our defense was connected.”

— Adam Sax, Head Coach

“They drive well and they kick out to the 3s. They're hard to defend. We started to 'up' the pressure and attack more.”

— Anton Mendezona, Player

What’s next

The Cougars will look to build on this season's success and compete for a league title and deeper playoff run in 2026-27, as they return several key contributors and look to integrate new talent.

The takeaway

Christopher High School has established itself as a consistent boys basketball power, able to maintain its high level of play even as the roster turns over. The Cougars' ability to quickly develop new contributors and maintain team chemistry is a testament to the strength of the program and its coaching staff.