The Coast Union boys varsity basketball program has fallen into a familiar pattern of first downs, then ups, over the past few years. Early this season — before league play began — the Broncos, out of necessity, were matched up against tough schools and had to hold their heads high after being battered by scores like 79-18 against Stockdale and 80-40 against Santa Maria.

But like last year and the year before, once the Broncos get into the Coast Valley League schedule, they hit their stride. Coming into this week the Broncos are 4-1 in league competition, including their 67-23 victory over Cuyama Valley on Friday, Jan. 11.

In that game Naum Hernandez led the team with 14 points on 53 percent shooting from the floor. Quentin Raethke added 13 points; he also dished out seven assists and grabbed six rebounds. Logan Brandt added 11 points, had a blocked shot and three assists.

The Broncos (9-9 overall) are averaging 40.9 points per game and have been led by the efforts of Raethke (180 pts, 118 rebounds), Brandt (152 pts, 111 rebounds) and Avina (126 pts, 39 assists and 32 rebounds).

The Broncos hosted North County Christian School on Tuesday, Jan. 15. Results were not available at press time.

A very important game for Coast Union is the rematch with Valley Christian Academy on Friday, Jan. 18. The only loss the Broncos have suffered came at the hands of Valley Christian, and they lead the Coast Valley League by one game over Coast Union.

The Lady Broncos are 3-1 in the Coast Valley League and play host to Valley Christian at 6:30 p.m. prior to the boy’s game.