News Summary

The Tacoma Dome buzzed with excitement as high school basketball championships took center stage. Gonzaga Prep clinched the Class 4A championship with a thrilling 57-55 win over Puyallup, while Rainier Beach dominated the Class 3A championship game, defeating Edmonds-Woodway 68-48. Both tournaments showcased incredible talent, with standout performances from players across various teams. The championships marked a memorable conclusion to the Washington high school basketball season.

Exciting Championship Weekend in Tacoma

Tacoma, Washington, was buzzing with excitement as the WIAA Class 4A and 3A boys basketball championships unfolded at the iconic Tacoma Dome. Fans poured into the arena, their energy palpable as hopes and dreams collided on the court. What a weekend it was for high school basketball!

Gonzaga Prep Takes the 4A Championship

In a nail-biting finale, Gonzaga Prep clinched the Class 4A championship with a dramatic win over Puyallup, finishing the game 57-55. It was a battle that kept everyone on the edge of their seats, and the thrilling finish came thanks to a spectacular fadeaway jumper by senior Brogan Howell, landing in the basket with just 2.2 seconds remaining on the clock. It was the kind of moment that players dream about, and Howell certainly turned that dream into reality!

Puyallup put up a great fight in this showdown, with standout performances from their players. Notably, Will Nasinec, a towering 6-foot-7 forward, managed to score an impressive 16 points. Drew Jones was the star of the show for Puyallup, leading all scorers with 20 points, including an incredible effort to tie the game with only 33 seconds left. However, Gonzaga Prep’s tenacity and teamwork would ultimately claim victory.

This win for Gonzaga Prep marks the fourth WIAA championship in their school history, concluding their season with an impressive record of 26-2. The sense of achievement was evident throughout the team as they celebrated their hard work and dedication.

Meanwhile, Glacier Peak snagged third place in the Class 4A tournament, outpacing West Valley of Yakima with a final score of 49-41, largely thanks to Josiah Lee’s sensational performance with 29 points. What an outstanding effort by the whole team!

Rainier Beach Dominates 3A Championship

Meanwhile, in the Class 3A championship, Rainier Beach took home the title after a commanding 68-48 victory over Edmonds-Woodway. The Rainier Beach players showcased their talent and teamwork throughout the tournament, winning three of their four games by at least 20 points. It was truly a tournament run for the ages!

Senior guard Jaylen Petty shined brightly during the championship match, leading his team with an impressive 26 points. Coach Mike Bethea could not have been prouder of his team’s unselfishness and skill, showcasing one of the best teams in the program’s rich history. What an incredible moment for these young athletes!

In other tournament news, the Class 3A third-place game featured Garfield overcoming Mount Spokane with a score of 62-51, achieving their highest state finish since they won the 3A title in 2023. This victory is a great confidence boost for the future of the Garfield basketball program.

Seattle Prep also made moves during the tournament, with Beckham King delivering a stunning performance by scoring 31 points and grabbing 13 rebounds as Seattle Prep celebrated a comeback victory against Bellarmine Prep, culminating in a 64-58 win. These young stars are certainly making their mark!

Across Tacoma along with Yakima and Spokane, 30 high school basketball games were played over the weekend, thrilling fans and showcasing incredible talent. The excitement of these championships is just the cherry on top of an amazing season in Washington high school basketball! Here’s to all the players and teams for a season filled with unforgettable moments!

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