Twins creating confusion for Ram foes

Eric Mungenast/Maricopa Monitor, Twin guards Jarvis and Lester (above) Gonzalez have stepped up to lead the Maricopa backcourt this season, emerging from the shadows of older brothers Wesley and Josh, who finished their time at Maricopa High last season

Confusion abounds for opponents of the Maricopa High School boys' basketball team when they see No. 10 and No. 12 on the white or red Rams uniforms.

It's because the only factor that visually differentiates those two players is that single digit.

Affectionately and biologically known as "the twins," seniors Jarvis and Lester Gonzalez similarities extend beyond their physical appearances, as they both have the ability to drive to the basket and hit outside shots and pester point guards on the defensive end.

This makes them essentially interchangeable, which allows Jarvis to start the game at point guard and Lester to replace him as need be.

But head coach Andy Branchik said he likes to play the two together, because they have a tendency to know where the other is on the court.

That ability is displayed quite frequently, when one twin will pass it while the other breaks for the basket, threading past three defenders en route to a quick two points.

"I don't hesitate to pass it to him, usually," Lester said.