After 16 weeks of practice, the women’s basketball team at San Diego Mesa College is preparing for the opening of their season in the James Mulvehal Coaches versus Cancer Tip-Off Tournament on Nov. 11.

Coach Michael Hootner – who is in his fifth year as the women’s basketball coach at Mesa College – is enthusiastic about the work that his athletes have put in thus far.

“On paper we feel like this is the best team, the strongest roster, the most depth, best offensive players, potentially best defensive team that we’ve had in my experience,” said Hootner during a practice session on Oct. 20.

The team has five returning sophomore players, including captain Denise White, who has played basketball since the fourth grade.

“As a returner I have to take it a little more seriously, and work on my ball handling and things like that,” said White.