Crespi High School junior forward Cayman Martin has emerged as a key player for the school’s basketball team, demonstrating significant growth after a year on the junior varsity squad. Martin’s journey reflects the importance of patience in sports, as he transitioned from a foreign student athlete facing initial setbacks to leading his team in scoring and rebounding.
After relocating from Japan, Martin encountered challenges adhering to California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) rules, which required him to compete at the junior varsity level for his sophomore year. Initially frustrated by this situation, Martin eventually embraced the opportunity to develop his skills. “I wasn’t going to let that stop me,” he stated. “Looking at it now, all the hard work paid off and I’m glad I waited patiently for my turn to come.”
Under the guidance of coach Derek Fisher, Martin has become an essential asset for the Crespi Celts, averaging 14.3 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. Fisher views Martin’s experience as valuable for both players and parents, emphasizing that each student-athlete’s journey is unique. “Help them create an environment for success and then allow them to determine how their success plays out on their timeline,” Fisher advised.
At 6-foot-6, Martin embodies the qualities of a team player, consistently contributing without seeking the spotlight. He often makes unheralded efforts, such as setting screens and running the court, which underscore his commitment to team success. “Lower-level basketball prepared me for the varsity level by showing what it is to be a leader,” Martin explained.
His ability to collaborate effectively with teammates like Jasiah Williams and the Barnes brothers, Carter and Isaiah, has resulted in impressive performances, including nine games where he scored 19 points or more. Fisher noted Martin’s efficiency and ability to elevate his teammates’ play, stating, “He’s able to lead us in scoring because he’s learned how to play with great teammates and be a great teammate.”
Crespi finished the season with an overall record of 19-11, securing a spot in the Mission League tournament semifinals. This achievement guaranteed the Celts an automatic playoff berth. Following a victory against Harvard-Westlake and a narrow defeat to top-ranked Notre Dame by just four points, there is speculation that Crespi could be considered for the Open Division playoffs if a 12-team field is established.
As of January 26, 2024, Crespi holds the 14th position in the latest computer rankings, a spot that may improve following their recent performances. If the rankings do not elevate them into the Top 12, they are expected to secure a high seed in the Division 1 playoffs. The CIF Southern Section will announce the basketball playoff pairings on Saturday at noon, a date that many fans and players are eagerly anticipating.
With Martin’s dedication and the team’s recent successes, Crespi appears poised for an exciting playoff run. As the basketball season progresses, Martin’s story serves as an inspiring reminder of the value of hard work and patience in the pursuit of athletic achievement.
