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Coach Pablo Martinez has his next challenge.
The 46-year-old has been hired as the girls basketball coach at Pacifica Christian after a successful five years at Santiago.
Pacifica Christian (26-6) stormed to the CIF-SS Division 4A title last season behind freshman Addison Deal but the school has since lost the standout point guard and sharp-shooter Annika Jiwani to transfers to Mater Dei and Troy, respectively.
The Tritons also graduated key starters Jamie Mackay and Ava Carter, and have moved to the difficult San Joaquin League with Orangewood Academy, Fairmont Prep and Capistrano Valley Christian.
“It’s definitely going to be a challenge,” Martinez said. “We’re going to be rebuilding. But moving forward, there’s a lot to look forward to.”
A few of those things involve family for Martinez. His senior daughter Andi and freshman daughter Angie have enrolled at Pacifica Christian and his wife Jasmine will serve as an assistant coach. Andi, a point guard, earned All-County honors and Garden Grove MVP last season.
Martinez expects Pacifica Christian to return junior guard Lauryn Ham, Charis and Chara Wondercheck and Cora Lake.
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He replaces interim coach Chyanne Butler, who took the reins for James Parker, now coaching at Capistrano Valley.
Martinez guided the Cavaliers to Garden Grove League titles and playoff appearances in each of the past four seasons.
Please send girls basketball news to Dan Albano at [email protected] or @ocvarsityguy on Twitter