2023-24 Christ the King Season Preview
Christ the King High School is an independent, co-educational Catholic High School with a 4- year college preparatory curriculum. Located in Middle Village, Queens, Christ the King School draws students from all areas. The school is accredited by The Board of Regents of the State of New York. The current enrollment is approximately 600 students. Its legendary basketball program has produced hundreds of college basketball players, oversea professionals, and NBA legends like Lamar Odom, Speedy Claxton and Jose Alvarado. All while winning multiple CHSAA City Championships and New York State Championships, while competing in the CHSAA Brooklyn/Queens AA conference.
Joe Arbitello is entering his 16th year as head coach of the Royals. The decorated head coach has three New York State Championships and six CHSAA City Championships. His six City Championships ties him for most by a head coach in league history. Arbitello reached 300 career wins last year. As art of his winning formula, Arbitello has assembled a deep and high quality staff of assistant coaches, James Horan, Nick Sanchez, Artie Cox and Sean Lewis. His 2023-2024 roster is strong and is poised for another big year.
Dwayne Pierce (2024) 6’6 guard - An Iowa State commit who is ready for a big senior season in the CHSAA. Pierce is a strong, versatile guard who uses his body to get into the paint and make plays. His high basketball IQ is noticeable on the offensive and defensive end. He will be the focal point for the Royals championship aspirations this year.
Qingfang Pang (2024) 6’9 small forward - A legit 6’9, and 220lbs, Pang has added to his game every year in the CHSAA. Coming into this year Pang has slimmed down and improved his conditioning. His offensive skill set for his size is unmatched. He is able to consistently knock down the three as well as using his body to get to his scoring spots on the floor. He has improved his rebounding and scoring in the paint and will be leaned on heavily this year for the Royals.
Oke Okrokoto (2024) 6’9 center - One of the most physically imposing prospects on the East Coast. Okrokoto’s size and strength will be a force in the CHSAA. He has improved on both sides of the ball, understanding his defensive responsibilities and adding to his offensive arsenal. There will not be many opponents who will be able to control the paint like the Royals will with Okrokoto on the floor.
Chiko Kalu (2024) 6’4 guard - A long versatile guard who does many things well on the basketball court. The senior will use his high IQ and understanding of the game to help on both ends of the floor. Kalu’s ability to handle the ball at times and slash to the basket to score will provide another option for the Royals. His length and IQ will be instrumental in defending some of the best players in the league.
Markell Alston (2025) 6’1 guard - Entering his 3rd year as the starting Point Guard for the Royals, Markell will be asked to do even more. The strong 6’1 Junior uses his strength and speed to make plays for others. Markell has improved his shot every year and consistently knocks down pull up jumpers and threes. He will be the X-factor for the Royals this year.
Jayden Ramirez (2025) 6’4 guard - The junior Guard is a very promising prospect, who never backs down from a challenge. Ramirez prides himself on the defensive side of the ball which earned him minutes on a stacked Christ the King team last year. This offseason Ramirez has improved his three point shot and pull up jumper. He will take on more responsibility this year in a 3 and D role for the Royals.
Julian Desir (2025) 6’6 forward - A growth spurt has propelled Desir into a possible role for the Royals this year. Desir’s defensive instincts, height, length and quickness allow him to guard 1-5. A tenacious rebounder who gets off the floor quick, he could help the Royals in certain aspects of games this year.
Vuk Zelic (2026) 6’6 guard - Zelic will provide great size and shooting for the Royals. A knock down three point shooter, who also uses his craftiness to get into the paint and make plays. A high IQ basketball player who will fit in nicely with the Royals this year.
Catch the Royals’ 2023-24 game schedule here