In an era where high schools are forming all-star teams, Armenian General Benevolent Union is largely composed of Armenian teens who've played together for years. Last year they were 21-0. This season’s goal is to win a Southern Section Division 2A title.
In a pristine gym off Vanowen Street in Canoga Park, there’s a group of Armenian high school basketball players practicing at 6:30 p.m. each night. Their story is so unique that their quest to win a championship this season might be worthy of a documentary.
Add 6-foot-6 Arpiar Harmandian, who arrived as a freshman, and you have five seniors who can practically read each other’s minds. Last year they were 21-0 during the regular reason. This season, AGBU’s goal is to win a Southern Section Division 2A championship. “They’ve known the system since they were little kids,” he said. “They know what I expect. Even on days they don’t have to be here, they ask when they can come. They live in the gym with me.”Twins Ryan and Michael Martirossian of Armenian General Benevolent Union.
Dorian’s personality is so friendly, humbling and welcoming that he’d fit in on any team. He’s the player AGBU goes to when the game is on the line, whether needing an inside shot or three-pointer. He’d love to walk on at USC or UCLA, and there’s no doubt Andy Enfield or Mick Cronin will fall in love on sight. He loves taking charges.
In an era where high schools are forming all-star teams, AGBU is largely composed of Armenian teenagers who have played together for years. They live mostly in the San Fernando Valley, in Tarzana, Northridge and as far as Studio City. Their coach will speak Armenian in the huddle or on the court if they need to keep secret a particular play.