Hart merchandise sales brisk ... as always

Among the more crowded areas upon entry is Hart's merchandise stand -- especially in a season opener like tonight. Booster president Rodney Toledo said program sales have been brisk as usual, despite a 66 percent price increase from $3 to $5.

"We needed to keep up with other schools," Toledo said. "We spoke to the Westlake boosters, and they're the ones who actually told us to raise the price. They said we were undercutting them."

Toledo and his collegues are planning another Poker Night on Sept. 23 in Valencia. Last time, Hart assistant Jason d'Autremont was a big winner -- splitting a $1,500 pot.

Later, during pregame warmups, d'Autremont insisted he's not a card hustler.

"Just lucky," he said. "I don't have any secrets -- except maybe not to show anyone my hand."

And what will d'Autremont do with his new windfall?

"Oh not much. I'm going to save it," he said.