The Palma High Chieftains

John Devine, who covers hoops in Monterey County like no other, looks at Palma High hoops for the 2015-16 season:

"Expectations are nothing new at Palma.

Pressure?

Well, standing pat isn't acceptable.

Remember, this is a program coming off its first league title in three years, that reached the State Nor Cal Division IV quarterfinals.

It's also a unit that returns four starters, including two all leaguers and The Herald's Basketball Player of the Year in Wyatt Maker.

The 6-foot-8 senior, who has already signed with CSU-East Bay, averaged a double-double last year for Palma, dropping in 15.3 points a game. Maker is a force with his back to the basket. He can knock down the jump shot or kick it back out to his guards for open looks on the perimeter.

Surrounding the big man are a trio of guards that can shoot, including all-leaguer Jamaree Bouyea, who had an outstanding summer for Seaside's Finest. The 6-foot guard led the Chieftains in 3-point goals last season, showcasing flashes of his potential during his sophomore year with explosive performances.

Senior Jack Brusa provides Palma with another outside shooter while 6-4 sophomore Garrett Maker started last year as a freshman.

A diamond in the rough could be Dominic Johnson, who jumped on a few college radars over the summer with his performances.

 While two sophomores will provide added depth off the bench, chemistry shouldn't be an issue with a team filled with experience.

 Yet, the only pressure Palma feels comes from within."