The Nicholas Podesta Era has begun for the Weston Ranch boys basketball team.

The reigning NorCal Division II champion opened the season Friday with an 84-72 win at Gregori of Modesto, using high-pressure defense to gain separation in the second half.

“We have a pretty deep rotation and just pressed them for 32 minutes,” Podesta said. “They kind of wore down at the end. They came out hot and hit six 3s in the first half but then got really cold.”

Kyle Monk, who drained four of Gregori’s 3-pointers, led all scorers with 30 points.

The Cougars countered with a balanced attack led by Elijah Mobley’s 22 points. Richard Banks and Elliot Mobley added 16 points each. Khristian Holmes tallied 13 points, and Xavion Bell had 11.

It was tied at 39-39 at halftime, and Weston Ranch had a 28-point outburst in the third quarter.

Up next is Elk Grove on the road next Tuesday.