Monte Vista Mustangs Advance To Semifinals: Press Release

Press release from Elena McCoy:

DANVILLE, CA — The Monte Vista Mustangs Varsity girls basketball team surprised fans and competitors alike by making it to the CIF Division II NorCal semi-finals despite a shaky start to the season. The team had only five returning varsity players from the previous year when Coach Steve Cornell returned to the school, unsure if he could even assemble a Varsity team. But Cornell, along with his assistant coaches Pat Nevins and MV alum and former player Kelly Copland, worked tirelessly with the girls to create a winning team.

Last weekend, the Mustangs' incredible run came to an end when they lost to Pleasant Valley High School in Chico, but the team and coaching staff have a lot to be proud of. They won back-to-back NCS titles, a feat that had never been achieved in girls' hoops at MV, and three of the five starters, Nia Coleman (senior), Sarina Nagra (senior) and Rachel Brans (junior), were recognized by The EBAL as winter All-League recipients.

Despite the loss, senior Coleman, who earned player of the year, scored an impressive 26 points out of the team's 44 points against Pleasant Valley, and has been nominated for Bay Area player of the week. Cornell and his team have proven that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.

“We take whatever player walks in the door and we make it happen,” adds Cornell.

Before his return to Monte Vista High School, Cornell had already established himself as a respected figure in the girls' basketball scene, having spent 16 years at the school as JV girls coach and Varsity assistant. During this time, he led his teams to impressive victories, including two NCS championships and a NorCal championship.

Cornell's success did not go unnoticed, and he was offered the opportunity to coach boys at rival San Ramon High School for two years. However, when Monte Vista reached out to him at the end of last season to take over the girls' program, Cornell couldn't refuse. His daughters also played basketball at Monte Vista, and the school holds a special place in his heart. His return to Monte Vista has not only elevated the girls' basketball program but has also inspired the entire school community.

“Cornell loves Monte Vista girls basketball. This is evident in the work he puts in, his preparation for his opponents, and most importantly, his relationships with his players,” added Andy Popper, Monte Vista's Athletic Director. "He has created a culture that values teamwork, all players are welcome, and winning games is an expectation.”

For those interested in joining the team next season, Cornell will be hosting a summer league and open gym in the fall, with updates available on the team website here.

This press release was produced by Elena McCoy. The views expressed here are the author’s own.