The Rams were second in the West Valley Division of the Blossom Valley Athletic League a year ago, and the junior varsity team tied for a division title. Now Gannon thinks that this could be the year when Rams take it all.

"Our team is ready to play this season," said Gannon. "We have a group of returners and some impressive sophomores who have moved up from the JVs."

At the core of that group of varsity returners is senior post player Maja Johnson. Gannon figures that the second-team all-leaguer from last year will provide good solid leadership for the Rams.

Two other varsity players returning for their senior season are point guard Mikka Dixon and post Kiley McKown.

Two talented sophomores up from the JVs should play an integral role for the Rams. Guard Corina Lopez and point guard Edith Vasquez should get plenty of action and are a key part of Gannon's plans this season.

Seniors Candace Gallegos, Nicole Garcia and Aquina Turner, junior Diana Schnabel, and sophomore Emily Roberts complete the Rams' roster.

The Rams last won a division championship in 2000, but Gannon believes they have the talent and experience to make a run for the title this year. Their strongest competitor will most likely be Evergreen Valley.

The Rams got off to a slow start, opening the season in the Fremont Tournament facing strong competition. Although they played hard and were in every game, they ended up losing three straight in the tourney to Wilcox (44-41), Cupertino (38-36) and Fremont (42-32). Johnson had a strong showing and was named to the all-tournament team.

The Rams got their first taste of victory when they met Andrew Hill and picked up a convincing 43-27 win. Willow Glen put up a balanced attack with three players in double figures. Dixon led the charge with 14 points from the outside while McKown tossed in 11 and Johnson dumped in 10 with strong post play under the basket.

The Rams avenged the earlier loss to Cupertino in a rematch when they ran away with a 59-30 blowout win. The balanced attack continued with four Rams in double digits this time. It was Johnson leading the pack, firing in 16 points. The trio of Schnabel, Dixon, and McKown added 10 each.

Willow Glen continued its hot pace in the Cupertino Holiday Tournament, taking three straight to bring home the championship. The Rams took care of Yerba Buena 40-35 and Lincoln 40-32, then pounded James Lick 44-33 in the title game. McKown led the Rams, putting in 47 points in three games. Johnson was also strong with 34 points. The Rams dominated play in the paint helping them to control the games and nail down the title. There was good support play from Gallegos, Roberts and Dixon.

McKown was named the tournament Most Valuable Player and Johnson was an all-tourney selection.

The Rams finished up pre-season play with two losses in the Del Mar tournament where they had only seven players available. Their season record is 5-5 as they prepare for division play.

"We are inconsistent right now mentally," said Gannon. "We have a lot of potential, but we need to have both our mental and physical game working together."