Justin-Siena great Blaize Boles returned to the Napa Valley on Tuesday night.

But this time he wasn’t wearing a Justin-Siena Braves jersey. Instead the college freshman was sporting a William Jessup University uniform.

And during his homecoming, not only did he start for the second time this season, but the 2007 Justin-Siena graduate helped his team to a 88-82 win over Pacific Union College. The guard picked up eight points and five rebounds to help the Warriors improve to 12-8 overall.

Boles admits he’s had a difficult time with becoming a small fish in a big pond, but that doesn’t mean he’s not thoroughly enjoying himself at the four-year level.

“It’s a lot of fun,” Boles said. “It’s a challenge. It’s very different. When I started the year, it was a shock. As the season’s gone on, I’m definitely getting used to it. I’m getting more minutes. They’re all bigger, faster, stronger, better. It’s a lot different than high school, but it’s been a blast.”

In high school, he was “The Man,” leading the Braves in several categories on most nights. As a senior he was named Napa County’s Player of the Year.

Lots of kids expect the transition from high school to college to be an easy one. Boles didn’t think it would be easy, but perhaps not as difficult as it has been.

“I have high expectations for myself,” Boles admitted. “I knew there would be an adjustment period but that I’d be successful. I know I’ve improved.”

That he has. Boles started the season as an off guard that got a few minutes from time to time but has recently stepped into a starting spot after a senior was injured.

“He’s provided us with a lot of scoring off the bench, which has been a pleasant surprise since he’s a freshman,” WJU head coach Aaron Muhic said. “To me, he’s very unique. He plays really well within himself. He doesn’t show frustration. He’s adjusted really well at this level. He’s very poised and confident in himself.

“With freshmen, a lot of it is consistency. He’s done a really good job with that and having a good attitude. I like him a lot; he’s a great kid.”

When WJU’s point guard, Shaughn Hull was taking a break, Boles would bring the ball up. He was also one of three guards playing much of the second half. He was 3-for-4 from the free-throw line and grabbed some offensive glass and went up for a trey in the first half. His deuce in the second 20 minutes also came off an offensive board.

“This year, I’m more of a role player,” Boles admitted. “I have specific jobs to do. It’s been difficult, but I try and keep a positive attitude. We have great upper classmen that have welcomed me and let me be me.”

Already a spot starter, Boles is looking forward to growing in the next three years with the Warriors.