Perry’s basketball team has always been a silent contender in its Division I rankings, but with a new head coach from powerhouse Corona del Sol, the Pumas could finally establish themselves among the better 6A teams.

Coach Sam Duane Jr. boasted a 127-7 record and 70 consecutive wins during his 12 years with the Aztecs, and surprised many when he stepped down from coaching in 2015 after his fourth consecutive championship title.

“He has a very good résumé,” said Principal Dan Serrano. “He’s won four state championships. I would predict we’re going to be very competitive.”

After taking a year off from coaching, Duane Jr. will take the place of Coach Joe Babinski, who led the Pumas for the last four seasons.

With more than two decades of coaching under his belt, the 2014-2015 MaxPreps National Boys’ Basketball Coach of the Year is sure to draw attention to Perry, who went 14-10 last year.

“He’s great,” said senior Jake Schulte. “He brought a lot of new ideas and philosophies to the game here at Perry.”

With nine varsity players graduated, there is a gaping hole in the roster that might cause concern for the Pumas.

“We have some young guys and some inexperience with losing nine guys from last year’s team,” said Duane. “This team will have to form its own identity as we go through the season.”

With Duane’s coaching, all eyes are on the team for arguably the most anticipated season of Puma basketball in school history. Perry has as much potential as ever, with a coach who knows how to lead a team.