Week of 8 December 25 | Riverside County Hoops Preview: Early Season Standouts Emerge

The winter basketball season has arrived, and this Varsity Vibes with Luke LaMonte episode breaks down the top boys and girls programs across Riverside County as teams return to the court for the 2025-26 campaign. The discussion opens with Vista Murrieta’s challenging start after last year’s Division I playoff run and moves into key Division II contenders including Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, Corona Centennial, Poly, Temecula Valley, Rancho Verde, Great Oak and Santiago — the latter starting this season unbeaten. On the girls’ side, Corona Centennial and King headline the Division I picture with King dominating early. Division II teams such as Shadow Hills, San Jacinto, Valley View and Santiago face varying starts, while Hillcrest looks to defend its CIF title despite early obstacles. Roosevelt’s boys return as California’s top-ranked powerhouse after a historic 35–2 season. With breakouts, setbacks, and storylines forming, this season promises excitement across the region.

Takeaways:

·      Boys and girls basketball season opens with new expectations.

·      Vista Murrieta looks to rebound after early losses.

·      Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage headline Division II desert matchups.

·      Santiago and Temecula Valley off to strong early streaks.

·      King girls dominate early, winning by large margins.

·      Shadow Hills girls start hot at 7–2 seeking league repeat.

·      Hillcrest girls chase back-to-back CIF titles despite slow start.

·      Roosevelt boys remain the team to beat after historic season.

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