In the opening week of basketball action, the Cerro Coso Basketball team picked up two wins against the Palo Verde Pirates. The opening series marks the first return to intercollegiate California Community College Athletic Association competition since stoppage of play was forced by COVID-19 in March of 2020. The two teams were able to participate following strict protocol as provided by the CCCAA and state guidance that includes testing protocol. 

"The road back to competition has not been easily navigated, but with the support from the college and plans laid out by the CCCAA guidance, we have been able to safely return to play. The significance of athletic's return is so important to the mental and physical well being of our student athletes and this has been a tremendous step forward in the right direction for our program" says Athletic Director John McHenry.

The team showed its depth in the series by providing quality minutes on the floor to the entire roster. They were lead by the performance of returning Coyotes, Haven Ousley, Alex Diuedonne, and Devonte Lyles. Newcomers Aaron Brown, Jhadon Banks, Zarius Benson-Moore showed they belonged on the floor, and Paris Smith worked hard under the basket in the series. The Coyotes will be off through the weekend and then regroup to prepare for action against Antelope Valley College next weekend.