Meet the 2011-12 Ohlone Renegades

In "Seinfeld," it was J Peterman (and his clothing catalogue) as a often featured character but in Fremont and Newark it's J Peterson and his band of Renegades displaying character.

John Peterson is entering his 12th season (201-81, a 71% winning percentage) at Ohlone and known for putting disciplined, proactive squads out on the floor, winning games and graduating student-athletes. The details: in the last 11 years, Peterson has an 88% graduation rate for non qualifiers, 73 of his players have moved on to four-year schools on full or partial scholarships and 19 former Renegades will be playing at the four- year level during the 2011-2012 season.

It says something when a 16-12, 7-5 season is labeled disappointing but that's the appropriate pejorative attached to the 2010-11 Ohlone go-around.

The good news (or it could be seen as the other way around for opponents) is that Peterson has re-stocked his squad. There's more talent, greater commitment and the evident desire to be coached up.

Here is Peterson's latest bunch:

* Nick Clarke, 6-foot-7, freshman (Australia)

Very good ball skills, plays inside out on both ends of the floor, high basketball IQ.

* Marcellus Clay, 6-foot-7, freshman (Oakland High)

Playing at about 85% after a spring time surgery to repair a broken fibula.  Could be very good come January

* Geoff Hartman, 6-foot-3, sophomore (San Diego)

Only returning starter. Grinds it out daily and has become a much better player on both ends as a result.

* Jarrad Jackson, 6-foot-1, freshman (Australia)

Quick with the ball, pass first mentality, will be a very good PG in our league. It has been a few years since we have had a PG with his mentality.

* Oivind Lundestad, 6-foot-4, freshman (Norway)

Quick release, crafty, shoots with range, strong skill set and very high basketball IQ. Probably one of the five best shooters I’ve ever coached.

* Bobby McCall, 6-foot-0, freshman (Newark Memorial)

Along with Hartman, the only other returner who played last year. Like Geoff, has put in a lot of work and has gotten better in all areas. Shoots it well and is doing a nice job of trying to lead. Can play both guard spots.

* Andy Mitchell, 6-foot-4, freshman (Moreau Catholic High)

will grayshirt

* Mikheal McKinney, 6-foot-1, freshman (Washington High, Fremont)

Very unique player in terms of his feel and how he moves. Motor runs constantly, scores in so many different ways … none of which have anything to do with coaching. He has turned out to be better than we had hoped when we recruited him.

* Chris Read, 6-foot-5, freshman (Castro Valley High)

Has come a long way since August 28th. Was always viewed as a defender/rebounder/garbage guy in high school, but he has a really smooth offensive game. He makes open shots, understands his role, shares the ball and can really finish

* Ashley Stephens, 6-6, freshman (Australia)

Quick release, big range, can score in bunches. Missed a good portion of our preseason with an injury, but is getting his groove back now.

* Vinnie Toor, 6-foot-3, freshman (American High, Fremont)

Gets better everyday. Learning how to consistently defend, but has a knack for scoring. Nice three point threat.

* Lauri Toivonen, 6-foot-7, freshman (Finland)

Tough, physical and smart. Prototypical 4 man – can pick and pop, pick and roll, score off the bounce, score with his back to the basket. And can defend 2 – 5.

* Warren Wright, 6-foot-3, freshman (Castro Valley High)

Plays hard every day, does exactly what he is asked to do, and competes.  He will help us win games because he does the things most guys don’t want to do.