Amador Valley Basketball Eyes Return as “School of Champions”

Amador Valley High School in Pleasanton is experiencing a renewed sense of optimism regarding its boys basketball program as it aims to reclaim its status as the “School of Champions.” After years of competitive play without league or section titles, this winter offers a fresh narrative, fueled by a wave of high-profile transfers and a strong core of returning players.

Renewed Ambitions for the Dons

The boys basketball team has not won a league title since 2018 and last raised a North Coast Section trophy in 1995. Despite these challenges, enthusiasm is palpable among players and coaches, as they anticipate a breakthrough season. Coach Willis Gardner, now in his sixth year, acknowledges the excitement but stresses the importance of not getting carried away by the hype surrounding the team.

“The buzz in the community is very high,” Gardner said. “There might be some bad reactions just in the sense that we do have so many high-level transfers. But we’ve had talented kids here for the last four years. It’s my job as a coach just to keep the culture going.”

Gardner emphasizes the need for humility and motivation, noting, “If we’re speaking real facts, Amador Valley hasn’t finished in the top 6 of this league since I’ve been here. I’m just trying to keep them hungry and humble.”

A Promising Roster

The Dons are entering the season as early favorites in the East Bay Athletic League (EBAL), largely due to the infusion of talent. Jaylen Smith, a junior point guard recognized for his scoring ability, has already drawn attention from multiple Division I programs, including New Mexico and UC Santa Barbara. Alongside him is Cade Krueger, who has committed to San Jose State, forming a formidable backcourt duo.

The arrival of Cameron Anderson, a 6-foot-7 standout and potential EBAL player of the year, adds another layer of excitement. Previously playing for Dublin High School, Anderson is set to be a defensive anchor for the team once he receives clearance to play. The Dons also welcomed former Salesian guard Elijah Stanley, who has a proven track record in high-stakes playoff scenarios.

Amador Valley is also anticipating the return of Arman Mahavni, a sharpshooter from American High, further bolstering their roster. The Dons’ blend of seasoned talent and fresh recruits has generated a buzz, prompting questions about the team’s chemistry and potential.

“This season all depends on how well we play together,” Anderson noted. “If we do that, the sky’s the limit for us.”

Challenges Ahead

Despite the encouraging outlook, the Dons face significant challenges as they prepare for a demanding schedule. They will kick off their season against Sunnyslope High School from Arizona, ranked No. 9 in the nation according to MaxPreps, at the NorCal Tipoff Classic on December 2, 2025. Additional matches against top teams such as Archbishop Riordan and St. Ignatius will serve as crucial tests before entering league play.

As excitement builds, the community wonders how a program that has struggled for relevance in recent years has suddenly attracted such high-caliber athletes. Gardner attributes this influx to a broader trend within the EBAL, where transfers have become increasingly common. He sees the competition as a major draw for players looking to showcase their skills.

“EBAL has always been getting transfers,” Gardner explained. “I think it’s just exciting for kids to come in and play in this league. There’s a lot of college coaches at our games. It’s always a heavyweight bout.”

Ultimately, the Dons must translate this early-season excitement into on-court success to validate their ambitions. As players and coaches strive to embody the spirit of the “School of Champions,” the upcoming season presents an opportunity for Amador Valley to reclaim its legacy in the competitive landscape of high school basketball.

“It’s going to be about working hard,” Anderson said. “I think we have the potential to go really far. We can win a state title, but it’s going to come down to how we play as a unit and how hard we want to work together.”