HARLINGEN — When you watch the Harlingen Cardinals play basketball, it’s hard to miss their big men working under the basket.
Senior forward Juan Cerrillo brings athleticism and experience to the table, while sophomore center Matthew Sesler brings height, hustle and the ability to easily clean up around the rim.
For it all to work, however, Cerrillo knows that it’s his duty to make sure he and his younger teammate build a rapport with each other.
“We have to have a connection when we’re out on the court,” Cerrillo said. “If (Sesler) posts up down low I’ll try to feed him the ball or vice versa — either way a good connection between us is very important.”
This year, Cerrillo has averaged a double-double, recording 11.9 nine points and 11.8 rebounds per game.
Sesler has averaged 5.5 points per game and 3.9 rebounds, but does a lot that doesn’t show on the stat sheet.
One thing he has done, however, is be a sponge when it comes to learning from Cerrillo.
“I’ve learned how to work harder so when I get to be a senior, I can teach younger guys the same,” Sesler said. “I’ve been getting better, but when Juan works with me and we have that connection on the court, things go smoothly.”
Both players have learned to benefit from one another as the chemistry has strengthened.
Sesler’s height draws attention from opposing defenses and it’s one thing Cerrillo has been able to benefit from.
When Cerrillo’s athleticism draws the defensive attention, that’s when Sesler goes to work.
Against Lopez Tuesday that chemistry was on display.
Sesler recorded 12 points and seven rebounds, while Cerrillo recorded another double-double with a 12 and 15 night.
Sesler shot 67 percent from the field and had several easy baskets, as he took advantage of Cerrillo’s extra attention from the Lobos defense.
Sesler sometimes has the jitters playing varsity ball for the first year, but has no problems standing up when called upon.
“I’m always nervous at tipoff, but if I’m needed, I’ll step up and try for those easy buckets or just be clutch,” Sesler said.
Harlingen head coach Greg Yates has obviously enjoyed watching the pair grow.
In fact, Yates holds Cerrillo in high regard and feels there are few players who can lead as well as he does, making him a perfect fit to mentor the younger Sesler.
“Nobody I’ve ever had works as hard as Juan does and he’s been a leader for our team,” Yates said.
Oddly enough, this situation isn’t a new one for Cerrillo.
Yates can recall a time when it was his senior star that was in Sesler’s shoes soaking up information.
“Now Matthew is a sophomore learning from a senior, just like when Juan was a sophomore a couple of years ago learning from Matt Cervantes,” he said. “He’s still playing with a Matt, but the role is reversed and it’s now Juan making Matthew Sesler better.
“It’s exciting that Juan has been able to do this on both ends.”
As Cerrillo’s senior season begins to draw to a close, he feels it’s important to leave Sesler and the underclassmen with one simple message.
“I want the young guys to know that it’s important to work hard now, that way later on you’ll be able to reap the rewards.”