San Diego City Head Coach Mitch Charlens earned his 300th victory on Friday night as the Knights wrapped up conference play by defeating Imperial Valley, 112-84.
Charlens has compiled a 300-157 record in 15 years as head coach of the Knights and has led his team to a state championship, two state final appearances, seven PCAC titles, four undefeated conference seasons, seven 20-win seasons, two 30-win seasons, and eight postseason appearances.
"Crazy to think about 300 wins," said Charlens. " To think that over the course of 15 years, we've averaged 20 wins per year is really crazy. We've been lucky to have amazing players and incredible coaches that allow me to pretend I know what I'm doing.
"I love City College and I love the great people that work here, and the great students and community we serve. My wife and kids have sacrificed a great deal to let me be completely obsessed with finding ways to lead these fine young men all these years. I'm blessed to have my amazing family at home and my amazing City family at work. I'm just completely blessed."
Charlens' Knights put on a strong performance in front of the home crowd with three players scoring over 20 points. Freshman Robby Robinson and sophomore Joseph Riley each poured in 22 points, while freshman Nashom Carter added 21 points to go with a season-high eight assists.
City jumped out to a 21-6 lead in the first half and it looked as though the Knights would put this game away early, but Imperial Valley, led by Timberland Mills' 22 points, battled back to get within six late in the first half. Carter, who scored 16 1st half points, responded with a layup and a jumper to put the Knights back up by double digits.
The Knights had a 53-42 lead at halftime and then started the first eight minutes of the second half with a 23-8 run that turned the game into a blowout.
Robinson, who was held to three points and zero rebounds in the first half, exploded for 19 points and eight rebounds in the second period to help his team earn its 13th straight victory over Imperial Valley.
The Knights shot 54.7 percent from the floor, while holding IVC to 36.8 percent.
Riley connected on five of his 11 3-point attempts and finished the regular season with a team-high 81 3-pointers. As a team, the Knights made 11-of-26 from 3-point territory on Friday, making it the ninth time this season they have hit at least 10.
City finished the PCAC South season in second place with a 7-3 record. The Knights were 16-12 overall, which is Charlens' 12th winning season in his 15 years at the helm.
