Nov. 5, 2007
Number 20
Bill Sanchez (1953-56)
Click Here for Men's Basketball Centennial Home Page
Moraga, CA - The 2007-08 season will mark the 100th year in the history of men's basketball at Saint Mary's College. To recognize the 100 years of basketball, Saint Mary's will release the top-25 players of the last century. Saint Mary's will countdown players 25 through 17 on the nine days counting down to the opening game of the year.
Bill "Weelo" Sanchez was know "as a superb dribbler, an accurate passer, and a rhythmic shooter," as stated by his head coach Thomas Foley. Sanchez scored 1,170 points in his three-year career at Saint Mary's, and finished his playing days as the school's all-time leading scorer. A dynamic scorer and rebounder, Sanchez averaged 15.6 points and 7.3 rebounds for his career.
Sanchez also had a knack for getting to the free throw line as he made 344-of-539 attempts in three seasons. He still ranks in the top-five in school history in free throws made (fifth) and free throws attempted (fourth). During his junior campaign, he attempted 212 free throws, the fourth most in school history, and made 131, which currently ranks eighth in school history.
A two-time All-West Coast Athletic Conference selection, Sanchez garnered first team honors as a sophomore when he averaged 16.5 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. During his junior season, Sanchez averaged 17.2 points and 7.2 rebounds per outing and garnered Second Team All-WCAC accolades. Sanchez was inducted into the Saint Mary's Basketball Hall of Fame in 1973.
Players 16-1 will be released at each home game during the season, with No. 16 being announced at halftime of the game between SMC and Sonoma State on November 9. The best player in the history of the program will be named at the Gaels' final home game of the season on February 25 when SMC hosts San Diego at 7 p.m.
