West Seattle Outlasts Beach, Metro Title Game Bound

Posted on February 9, 2017 by Steven Dion

West Seattle Outlasts Beach, Metro Title Game Bound
By Steve Dion

Wednesday- February 8th	2017	Girls	3A	Metro Semifinals
Alaska Airlines Arena	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
West Seattle	11	12	21	7	51
Rainier Beach	8	16	13	8	45

West Seattle Wildcats

The Metro League semifinals at Alaska Airlines Arena tipped off with the girls #2 vs. #3 seed game between Rainier Beach & West Seattle.

For playing less than 24 hours prior, the young West Seattle squad was ready to compete taking an early lead with Jasmine Gayles & Jenna McPhee leading the charge. Beach countered with a flurry of buckets in the post by talented freshman Dalayah Daniels. The second seeded Lady Viks were able to take a one-point lead to the locker room 24-23.

The Wildcats emerged from the locker room ready to take control of the game with Meghan Fiso scoring six of the Wildcats 21 in the quarter. Grace Sarver continued to tack on to extend the lead as the defense started to clamp down in unison. A late surge by the Vikings wasn’t enough to climb back into the game as West Seattle advances to the championship game.

The Final Score
West Seattle 51, Rainier Beach 45

Top Performers:
West Seattle
Jasmine Gayles- 16 points

Rainier Beach
Karizma Loeffler- 13 points

Beach Boys Set to Take Off for Alaska Airlines Arena

Posted on February 8, 2017 by Steven Dion

Beach Boys Set to Take Off for Alaska Airlines Arena
By Steve Dion

Tuesday- February 7th	2017	Boys	3A	Metro
Rainier Beach High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Eastside Catholic	13	16	9	17	55
Rainier Beach	23	12	23	31	89

Kevin Porter Jr. Defending Eastside Catholic’s Inbound Pass

After a snow day on Monday that canceled most school, Tuesday night Eastside Catholic came to the Jamaal Crawford court at Rainier Beach with upset on their mind. Nearly a month ago they played the Vikings in a tight contest that Beach was able to hold on to win 71-66 1/9. Brock Mackenzie got 22 that night (15 in the 1st Qtr) and the team jumped out to a 24-18 lead. The Crusaders needed the junior to step up again as Rainier Beach is playing with the confidence of a team that has been to the 3A state championship game 5 years in a row and winning 4.

Eastside Catholic got up 6-2 early. Quick buckets from Malik Putney and O’Landa Baker, off Beach turnovers and a pair of Mackenzie free throws and the Crusaders looked to be off an running. Fred Roberson knocked down a 3 and would end with 10 in the quarter as the Vikings went on a 21-7 run and were up by 10, 23-13 after the first 8 minutes. Four Crusader 3’s in the second period, 2 from senior Michael Clemens, Baker and Mackenzie cut the lead to 6 points at half 35-29. Eastside poised to come out of the locker room and maybe get Rainier Beach on their heels. Brock Mackenzie knocked down a long 3 to cut the lead in half, but Kevin Porter Jr and Fred Roberson combined for 19 of the teams 23 points to put the game out of reach 58-38. The Crusaders Mackenzie hit 3 3’s in the quarter but those were the only field goals for Eastside Catholic. Kevin Porter Jr would add 11 4th quarter points and leave the game with 4:08 remaining with 31 points, 3 dunks, a pair of 3’s and 7-8 from the line. Roberson would finish with 18. Crusader junior Mackenzie would lead his team with 19, giving his all, fouling out with just over 3 minutes remaining. O’Landa Baker added 12, but Eastside Catholic could not keep pace with the Vikings, as they were out scored 31-17 in the final 8 minutes.

The Final Score
Rainier Beach 89, Eastside Catholic 55.

Top Performers:
Rainier Beach
Kevin Porter Jr.- 31 points

Eastside Catholic
Brock Mackenzie- 19 points

Pryor, Sarver Send West Seattle to Semifinals

Posted on February 8, 2017 by Steven Dion

Pryor, Sarver Send West Seattle to Semifinals
By Steve Dion

Tuesday- February 7th	2017	Boys	3A	Metro
West Seattle High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Seattle Prep	17	15	11	6	49
West Seattle	16	7	16	14	53

West Seattle Wildcats

With a trip to Alaska Airlines Arena on Wednesday on the line and a chance to play the top-ranked team in the country Nathan Hale, the West Seattle Wildcats who entered on an 8-game winning streak hosted the Seattle Prep Panthers on Tuesday night.

The guard battle between Aaron Nettles & Nate Pryor took center stage with both floor leaders trading buckets. Nettles buried a step back fadeaway triple at the first quarter buzzer to give Prep an early lead. This carried to halftime with Nic Lynch also making contributions down low.

Coach Fazio made the required adjustments at the break as West Seattle began to immediately chip away at the Panther lead in the third quarter. Pryor continued his torrid pace, but needed to rely on teammates down the stretch for clutch buckets. Jack Golgart & Cass Elliott buried some huge buckets from beyond the arc to give West Seattle a three point lead in the final minute. A defensive stop set up a series of free throws which allowed the Wildcats to push the lead out of reach and ultimately punch their ticket to the league championship semifinal.

The Final Score
West Seattle 53, Seattle Prep 49.

Top Performers:
West Seattle
Nate Pryor- 21 points

Seattle Prep
Aaron Nettles- 18 points

Pryor, Sarver Send West Seattle to Semifinals
By Steve Dion

Tuesday- February 7th	2017	Girls	3A	Metro
West Seattle High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Cleveland	11	10	10	21	52
West Seattle	12	27	14	18	71

West Seattle Wildcats

The nightcap at West Seattle featured the home West Seattle team and visiting Cleveland Eagles with the winner heading over to Hec Edmunson Pavilion at The University of Washington tomorrow to take on #2 seeded Rainier Beach.

It was a back-and-forth affair in the opening quarter with both teams battling playoff nerves. However, West Seattle put together a decisive second quarter which set up an 18 point lead by halftime. Kelsey Lenzie was lethal from the perimeter and Grace Sarver was scoring anyway she wanted to. Jazzeem Bethea tried to keep the Eagles in the game, but was it too late?

West Seattle’s dominance continued in the second half as airtight defense led to one fastbreak after another. In total, four Wildcats scored in double figures. On the other side, Giavanni Flowers put together a strong second half, but the damage was done. The young, talented West Seattle squad is moving on to the big show on Wednesday night at Alaska Airlines Arena at 3:30pm.

The Final Score
West Seattle 71, Cleveland 52.

Top Performers:
West Seattle
Grace Sarver- 18 points

Cleveland
Jazzeem Bethea- 17 points

O’Dea Tops Prep on Senior Night

Posted on February 4, 2017 by Steven Dion

O’Dea Tops Prep on Senior Night
By Steve Dion

Friday- February 3rd	2017	Boys	3A	Metro
O’Dea High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Seattle Prep	10	20	22	18	70
O’Dea	20	12	25	16	73

O’Dea Sophomore Noah Williams & Head Coach Jason Kerr

On the final night of regular season play, O’Dea hosted their Capitol Hill rival Seattle Prep on senior night to close out another great year of Metro League play leading into the postseason.

The back and forth affair started with a hot start by the home team with Noah Williams & Xavier Smith knocking down shots early and giving the Irish an early ten-point advantage. As the first half progressed, Prep’s floor general Aaron Nettles made his presence felt by beginning his three-point barrage and setting up his teammates with open looks to the cup. Trailing by a pair at halftime, could the Panthers get their bigs Collin Welp & Nic Lynch involved to head into the Metro League playoffs with a victory?

Prep emerged from the locker room on a mission as the visitors opened with an extended run primarily through deep shots from Nettles. In total, the senior guard knocked down a half-dozen from downtown as part of a game-high 27 points. However, O’Dea countered with Russell Whealdon as a deep threat and buried a four-pack from beyond the arc.

In the final minutes of regulation, the lead bounced back and forth several times with O’Dea taking a late lead on a tough Xavier Smith jumper in the paint. The lead grew to three after a Fighting Irish defensive stop and a pair of free throws. Seattle Prep called a timeout with a chance to draw up a play to push the game into overtime.

Nettles quickly received the ball on the baseline beyond the arc, his shot bounced of the side of the backboard back into control of Prep’s Kalu Stricklin who quickly returned the ball to Nettles for a final shot. At the buzzer, the ball glanced off the front rim and the Irish players met at mid-court with exuberance after surviving a full full-quarter effort.

The Final Score
O’Dea 73, Seattle Prep 70.

Top Performers:
O’Dea
Xavier Smith- 24 points

Seattle Prep
Aaron Nettles- 27 points

Late Pryor Runner Seals Westside Win

Posted on February 1, 2017 by Steven Dion

Late Pryor Runner Seals Westside Win
By Steve Dion

Tuesday- January 31st	2017	Boys	3A	Metro
Cleveland High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
West Seattle	19	4	19	9	46
Cleveland	7	17	14	7	45

West Seattle Wildcats

As the final week of league play begins, the West Seattle Wildcats ventured over to Cleveland HS to take on the Eagles for a clash of major playoff implications. The Cats are currently the 4th seed with a 10-3 league record looking to maintain their placement in standings. Meanwhile, Cleveland whose 9-4 record currently slates them at the sixth and final seed are seeking to fend off Eastside Catholic who are chasing them down in the last week of the regular season.

Before Cleveland could blink, they were trailing by a dozen with Wildcat floor general Nate Pryor involved in the early offensive production. However, the Eagles kicked into gear in the second quarter when C.J. Elleby found his stroke from all over the court as well as Fahad Sharif who started to connect from downtown. A late Eagle surge helped them take a 24-23 into the locker room.

As the second half progressed, Cleveland’s reliance on Elleby to control the offense grew and was countered with a strong output by senior forward Yusuf Mohamed who scored 10 second half points.

With mere minutes remaining, a strong take to the cup by Pryor resulted in a hard crash to the ground, which he was miraculously able to shrug off. Moments later, he drove down the lane for the go-ahead bucket with less than a minute to go.

Cleveland had 5 seconds to advance the ball down the court to take a potential game-winner by Yusuf had other plans as he ripped the ball loose and clutched the ball as the horn sounded. West Seattle hangs on for a critical one-point victory to retain their 4-spot in the standings.

The Final Score
West Seattle 46, Cleveland 45.

Top Performers:
West Seattle
Nate Pryor- 16 points

Cleveland
C.J. Elleby- 23 points

Roy’s Raiders Remain Undefeated, Edge Alma Mater Garfield

Posted on January 28, 2017 by Steven Dion

Roy’s Raiders Remain Undefeated, Edge Alma Mater Garfield
By Steve Dion

Tuesday- January 27th	2017	Boys	3A	Metro
Garfield High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Nathan Hale	11	23	19	16	69
Garfield	17	14	13	21	65

Nathan Hale Senior Michael Porter Jr.

This was the game we’ve all waited patiently for.

The top-ranked team in the country Nathan Hale led by Coach Brandon Roy returning to his old stomping ground…the place where he played high school hoops…to take on the Garfield Bulldogs in front of a national television audience.

Washington’s top two teams met in the Les Schwab Invitational on December 29th with Nathan Hale winning in convincing fashion 87-64 en route to winning the tournament.

Could Hale keep their perfect record intact and retain their position as the best in the country?

Garfield quickly showed they were ready for the challenge as the home team jumped out to an early lead thanks to quick buckets by senior leader Jaylen Nowell. The poise shown by the Bulldogs served them well and allowed for a six point lead after one quarter.

Hale bounced back with a strong second quarter where Michael Porter Jr. started to heat up scoring 9 and sharpshooter Freddy Brown III netting 8. The momentum shift gave the Raiders and 8 point lead at the break.

When play resumed, the points were at a premium and Garfield found themselves in a precarious position heading into the final eight minutes. Haskins was able to rally the troops and give the home team a legitimate shot to stay competitive until the final whistle.

With the clock Hale’s friend after another scoring spree by Porter Jr., Garfield was trailing by double digits with less than 3 to play. Nowell struck back with a 7 point run to cut the lead down to two possessions to get the gym rocking again. On the ensuing critical possession, Porter took the air out of the building with a turnaround fadeaway jumper which was promptly followed by Nowell’s fifth foul to put the game on ice.

Coach Roy was able to guide his team to executing the final moments of the game and walked away with yet another statement victory to a season that continues to unfold as one of the greatest in state history.

Nathan Hale leads the season series 2-0, but don’t count on tonight’s game as the last time these two teams tussle!

The Final Score
Nathan Hale 69, Garfield 65.

Top Performers:
Nathan Hale
Michael Porter Jr.- 34 points

Garfield
Jaylen Nowell- 20 points

Knight Leads Lakeside in Neighborhood Battle with Rams

Posted on January 25, 2017 by Steven Dion

Knight Leads Lakeside in Neighborhood Battle with Rams
By Steve Dion

Tuesday- January 24th	2017	Boys	3A	Metro
Lakeside High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Ingraham	12	5	3	20	40
Lakeside	6	12	19	25	62

Tuesday night at Lakeside HS was a neighborhood affair with nearby Ingraham in the building for Metro League action.

The visiting Rams took advantage of their length in the defensive side of the floor early as Saxen Mitchell gave the Lions a big challenge in the paint. Mason Lyng drained a three at the first quarter buzzer to give his team a half-dozen lead after one.

However, the Lions responded with a strong second quarter by Max Knight who helped his team take a one point lead in the break 18-17.

Lakeside took control in the third quarter and never looked back. They outscored the Rams 19 to 3 heading into the final quarter thanks to contributions from Knight and sophomore Robert Breyer.

Despite a valiant effort to climb back in the ballgame from Ben Sutton who scored 9 tough points in the fourth frame, it wasn’t enough to cut into the Lakeside lead. When the dust settled, the home Lions walked away victorious.

The Final Score
Lakeside 62, Ingraham 40.

Top Performers:
Lakeside
Max Knight- 20 points

Ingraham
Ben Sutton- 15 points

Rainier Beach’s Balance Enough to Prevail Over Prep

Posted on January 21, 2017 by Steven Dion

Rainier Beach’s Balance Enough to Prevail Over Prep
By Steve Dion

Friday- January 20th	2017	Boys	3A	Metro
Rainier Beach High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Seattle Preparatory	8	9	16	24	57
Rainier Beach	13	15	16	24	68

Rainier Beach Junior Fred Roberson

Rainier Beach whose quest to defend their state title was met with another tough challenge on Friday night against Seattle Prep. Each team plenty of motivation for league placement to battle for the win on the line.

The guard matchup of Khalil Shabazz for Beach and Aaron Nettles of Prep was front and center in this game with Shabazz getting the upper hand early logging 14 points in the first half many of which a result of attacking the cup. Additionally, Tijohn Rodde and Fred Roberson made their presence felt on both ends of the floor helping their Viks squad take a double digit lead into the break.

The Prep Panthers returned to the floor eager to shave the Beach lead and put the ball in Nettles’ hands to make it happen. The senior point guard recorded 15 fourth quarter points for a game-high 22 and was joined by Kalu Stricklin in the second half rally.

Unfortunately, their hopes were dashed when Kevin Porter Jr. who was managing foul trouble throughout the contest connected on some pivotal possessions down the stretch to put the game out of reach.

The Final Score
Rainier Beach 68, Seattle Preparatory 57.

Top Performers:
Rainier Beach
Fred Roberson- 14 points

Seattle Preparatory
Aaron Nettles- 22 points

Rainier Beach Lady Viks Survive Prep Rally

Posted on January 21, 2017 by Steven Dion

Rainier Beach Lady Viks Survive Prep Rally
By Steve Dion

Friday- January 20th	2017	Girls	3A	Metro
Rainier Beach High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Seattle Preparatory	9	18	9	16	52
Rainier Beach	15	25	9	6	55

Rainier Beach Junior Grace Williams

Friday night at Rainier Beach served as the site of a crucial Metro League contest for the host Lady Viks and Seattle Prep Panthers who are amidst a logjam in the league standings.

Beach jumped out front early and were able to hold the lead for the duration of the contest. Grace Williams put together a tremendous first half logging 18 of her game high 20 in the first two quarters. Additionally, NiRae Petty & Dalaylah Daniels set the tone on defense containing Prep’s interior attack. Could the Panthers surmount a double digit lead in the second half.

Prep head coach Michelle Hall said before the game her team is recovering from a bug that hit several players and it seemed to subside in the second half as they chipped away at the Vikings lead gradually. Lone senior Chinwe Ezeonu knocked down some tough buckets in key moments and also was helped by Marie Hauck & Bea Franklin who also scored in double figures.

In the final minute, Rainier Beach’s lead was cut down to a single possession, but a desperation three-point shot on Prep’s final possession missed the mark and Beach held on for a close win.

The Final Score
Rainier Beach 55, Seattle Preparatory 52.

Top Performers:
Rainier Beach
Grace Williams- 20 points

Seattle Preparatory
Marie Hauck- 15 points

3A State Rankings
Basketball

Posted on January 20, 2017 by Steven Dion

WASHINGTON STATE RANKINGS – January 17, 2017

17-WA-BBallLogo

3A	LIVE 5!
#	School
1	Nathan Hale
2	Garfield
3	Rainier Beach
4	Lincoln
5	West Seattle

3A	IN THE HUNT
#	School
6	Seattle Preparatory
7	Shorecrest
8	Stanwood
9	Cleveland
10	Shadle Park

17-WA-GBallLogo

3A	LIVE 5!
#	School
1	Blanchet
2	Kamiakin
3	Lincoln
4	Seattle Preparatory
5	Garfield

3A	IN THE HUNT
#	School
6	Stanwood
7	Bellevue
8	Snohomish
9	Shorewood
10	Gig Harbor

Roosevelt Sinks Ballard in Crosstown Rivalry Rematch

Posted on January 18, 2017 by Steven Dion

Roosevelt Sinks Ballard in Crosstown Rivalry Rematch
By Steve Dion

Tuesday- January 17th	2017	Boys	3A	Metro
Ballard High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Roosevelt	15	13	10	15	53
Ballard	5	16	15	14	50

Roosevelt Junior Asaph Brumer

Rivalry night at Ballard HS featured the host Beavers and visiting Roosevelt Rough Riders. These teams are both fighting to maintain their position in the thick of the Metro League standings.

Roosevelt’s precision offense was firing on all cylinders in the early stages of the game working the ball to their number of scoring options including Nick Blume who knocked down eight quick points of his game-high 21. Additionally, the Riders were able to hold the Beavs to only 5 first quarter points.

As the first half wore on, Fresh Ausur ignited Ballard who were on a mission to play catch up throughout the ballgame. Ausur attacked the bucket and was able to convert at will. Roosevelt still maintained a healthy lead heading into the second half.

When play resumed, Ballard’s comeback continued with Sam Heikell showing his range with four from downtown in the game in addition to more Ausur stepping up.

However, as the clock wound down, Roosevelt relied on its senior leaders Thomas Doyle and Clayton Moore to knock down the big shots to seal the deal for the green and gold.

The Final Score
Roosevelt 53, Ballard 48.

Top Performers:
Roosevelt
Nick Blume- 21 points

Ballard
Fresh Ausur- 17 points

West Seattle, Cleveland Prevail in Unity Hoops Showcase

Posted on January 17, 2017 by Steven Dion

West Seattle, Cleveland Prevail in Unity Hoops Showcase
By Steve Dion

Friday- January 13th	2017	Boys	3A	5pm
Garfield High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
West Seattle	15	14	6	18	53
Eastside Catholic	8	7	17	12	44

Friday- January 13th	2017	Boys	3A	7pm
Garfield High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	OT	Final
Cleveland	10	18	14	22	6	70
Franklin	16	11	18	19	4	68

Cleveland & Franklin Battling For the Rebound at the End of Regulation

The 4th Annual Unity Hoops Showcase at Garfield High School featured a Metro League doubleheader starting with West Seattle taking on Eastside Catholic & the nightcap between Cleveland & Franklin.

West Seattle’s commitment to their gameplan which emphasized defensive intensity and precision offensive execution carried them to a sizable lead in the first half. The Wildcats kept Crusader sharpshooter Brock Mackenzie at bay while Yusuf Mohamed put his versatile scoring ability logging 10 of his game-high 16 in the first half.

Eastside Catholic stormed back in the third frame thanks Noah Springborn finding a groove from beyond the arc. Only leading by three heading into the final quarter, West Seattle relied on their trusty senior Nate Pryor to carry them to the finish line to the tune of a 53-44 victory.

Game two matched the Cleveland Eagles & Franklin Quakers both eager to pick up a crucial league win. The tandem of Marquan Williams and Maurice Bennett was hot out of the gates with electrifying ball handling by Williams and thunderous dunks by “Mo Buckets”. Cleveland relied on their leader C.J. Elleby to lead the charge including a pair of triples in the final moments of the first half to give the Eagles a one point leading heading into halftime.

The pace of play shifted into overdrive in the third quarter with the pace ramping up into the final frame of regulation which saw the Franklin guards attacking the rim with reckless abandon and the Eagles countering with transition buckets in bunches. Cleveland led by a pair in the final seconds of regulation. After coming up with the defensive rebound, instead of waiting to be fouled, they turned the ball over to Franklin in which Cejay Garrison Jr. was able to capitalize with a clutch bucket to tie the game and send the game into OT.

A pair of back-to-back buckets early in the extra period gave Cleveland the needed lift to come away with the win against a tough Quakers squad. This game was an appropriate ending to a great night of high school hoops at Garfield High School.

The Final Score
West Seattle 53, Eastside Catholic 44
Cleveland 70, Franklin 68

Top Performers:
West Seattle
Yusuf Mohamed- 16 points

Cleveland
C.J. Elleby- 33 points

Statement Win for Nathan Hale Over Oak Hill Academy

Posted on January 17, 2017 by Steven Dion

Statement Win for Nathan Hale Over Oak Hill Academy
By Nic Beckman

Monday- January 16th	2017	Boys	3A	Hoophall Classic
Springfield College	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Oak Hill Academy (VA)	19	19	17	22	77
Nathan Hale	17	26	20	17	80

The #8 team in the country travelled to Springfield, Massachusetts on the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr holiday to play in the Spalding Hoophall Classic against perennial high school powerhouse Oak Hill Academy out of Virginia, ranked #7 this year. Michael Porter Jr after sitting out their game on Friday in their metro league game against Bishop Blanchet, that the Raiders won 83-48, came out ready to play! The undefeated Raiders played with confidence and energy and didn’t let the loaded Oak Hill Academy squad led by McDonald’s All American Billy Preston intimidate them. Senior Michael Porter Jr and his junior brother Jontay Porter got the first 8 points for Hale, 4 apiece to get an early lead over Oak Hill. But the very talented Oak Hill team rallied to get up by 6 at 14-8 halfway though the first. The back an forth action had Oak Hill up by two after one 19-17.

The transition game sparked Brandon Roy’s Raiders in the second period after Oak Hill opened on an 8-4 run extending their lead to 6 at 27-21. The Porter brothers hit back to back threes and Sophomore PJ Fuller with a right hand tomahawk jam on a Keegan Crosby lob in transition, then a pull up three on the next trip cut the lead to 2 at 34-32 with just over three minutes in the half. Tied at 34 with 2:58 left, the Raiders closed the half on an 9-4 run of their own and went into the locker room up five, 43-38. Michael Porter Jr tallied 20 first half points on 8-14 field goal attempts.

The second half was much of the same great basketball with contributions from Jontay Porter, PJ Fuller and Fred Brown III, tied at 51 with just under 4 minutes played in the third, Michael Porter Jr hit his third 3 (3-6 3’s) and a goal tend by Oak Hill had the Raiders back up by 5. As the clock ran out in the 3rd, PJ Fuller with a launch from the free throw line in back court, hit nothing but net and the 80 foot bomb put Nathan Hale up 63-55 heading into the final period. Fred Brown III deep three from the right corner gave Nathan Hale their largest lead of the game in the fourth quarter at 72-62.

The very talented Oak Hill team would battle back, getting the game within a single possession, behind the leadership of Lindell Wigginton who would finish with 22. Three other players getting double digit performances Billy Preston with 17, Matt Coleman and Ty-shon Alexander each with 15. But that wasn’t enough to overcome the Raiders. Michael Porter Jr. making a statement for the #1 player in the nation overall, finished with 36 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals. Sophomore PJ Fuller finished with 17 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists and a steal and Junior Jontay Porter got 13 points to go with 7 rebounds, 4 blocks and a steal. Nathan Hale with a fantastic effort from start to finish would hold on to win as a last second desperation three for the tie hit the front of the rim as the buzzer sounded. The Raiders remain undefeated with the 80-77 win over Oak Hill Academy on the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr holiday.

The Final Score
Nathan Hale 80, Oak Hill Academy (VA) 77.

Top Performers:
Nathan Hale
Michael Porter Jr.- 36 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals
P.J. Fuller- 17 points, 4 rebounds
Jontay Porter- 13 points, 7 rebounds, 4 blocks

Lady Bulldogs Edge Rainier Beach in Pivotal League Win

Posted on January 14, 2017 by Steven Dion

Lady Bulldogs Edge Rainier Beach in Pivotal League Win
By Steve Dion

Friday- January 13th	2017	Girls	3A	Metro
Garfield High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Rainier Beach	15	8	20	16	59
Garfield	9	22	11	20	62

Garfield Sophomore Samaiyah Tolliver

A packed Garfield gym for a Friday night hoops quadruple-header featured a crucial varsity girls league matchup between the host Lady Bulldogs and visiting Rainier Beach Vikings. After a tough loss to West Seattle last Friday night, Garfield was hungry for the opportunity to pick up a big win against a top team jockeying for league position. The ever-improving Viks were ready for the challenge.

Beach took the early lead in the first frame with NiRae Petty leading the charge who led all scorers with 23 points. Talented freshman for the Vikings Dalayah Daniels was guarded tightly by the Bulldogs defense and earned all 10 points she recorded. After falling behind early, Garfield put together a high-octane second quarter which was sparked by Tamia Mobley. Also in the mix was guard Juanita Agosto whose athleticism was on display on the glass grabbing 10 rebounds. At the break, the Bulldogs leapfrogged Beach to a 31-23 lead.

Rainier Beach composed themselves at halftime and emerged in the second half poised to make a comeback. Xerina Walker was a critical component to a run in which the Vikings regained the lead heading into the final quarter.

Samaiyah Tolliver took the ballgame into her hands in the fourth quarter leading the charge for the home team knocking down tough buckets in the paint and showing her range. Coach Adams has emphasized the importance of making “game-winning plays” this season and how the ability to execute late in ballgames will hinge on his team’s success. Tolliver’s clutch plays allowed Garfield to pick up a pivotal victory to give them sole possession of fourth place in the league standings.

The Final Score
Garfield 62, Rainier Beach 59.

Top Performers:
Garfield
Samaiyah Tolliver- 18 points

Rainier Beach
NiRae Petty- 23 points

Garfield Storms Back in Second Half to Knock Off Beach

Posted on January 14, 2017 by Steven Dion

Garfield Storms Back in Second Half to Knock Off Beach
By Steve Dion

Friday- January 13th	2017	Boys	3A	Metro
Garfield High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Rainier Beach	16	20	15	9	60
Garfield	8	12	26	18	64

Garfield Senior Jaylen Nowell

There is no question that excitement is building about Metro League hoops as the season rolls on.

A capacity crowd at Garfield High School arrived hours before the much anticipated varsity boys matchup between Rainier Beach & the host Bulldogs. A critical league win which would figure strongly into playoff seeding was on the line for two of the top teams in the state.

Coach Bethea’s Vikings were ready to tackle the challenge head on as his team jumped out to a sizeable lead in the first two quarters. Khalil Shabazz’s jumper was lights out by logging 13 of his team high 19 points in the first half. Additionally, the Beach defense locked down the several lethal scoring options for the Bulldogs only allowing 20 first-half points, a tremendous effort by the defending champs. N’Keil Nelson was unfazed by the big stage of the game making big plays on both sides of the floor. Garfield senior leader Jaylen Nowell had a quiet first half, could the Viks continue to limit the Bulldog star’s productivity in the final two quarters?

The proverbial light switch flipped on for the home team in the third quarter as the Rainier Beach lead shrunk from sixteen to five heading into the final frame. Much of this was due to Nowell finding his groove logging 13 in the third frame. Could they carry the newly-found momentum into the final quarter?

Much like last Friday’s game against West Seattle, Garfield got a lift from Curtis Walker who knocked down a few crucial buckets in the closing minutes to grab the lead and send the home crowd into a frenzy. Daejon Davis played a big role especially in the defensive side of the floor to set up the key baskets down the stretch. Rainier Beach’s inability to match the Bulldogs in the final minute allowed the Garfield lead to reach four with mere seconds remaining. An errant last shot sailed wide and the home team was greeted by the Dog Pound on the court after surmounting a 16 point halftime lead!

This rivalry matchup served as a reminder that the spotlight on high school hoops in Seattle continues to shine brighter as league play heats up and the playoffs on the horizon!

The Final Score
Garfield 64, Rainier Beach 60.

Top Performers:
Garfield
Jaylen Nowell- 25 points

Rainier Beach
Khalil Shabazz- 19 points

Balanced Beach Attack Sinks Tough Battle Against Cru

Posted on January 10, 2017 by Steven Dion

Balanced Beach Attack Sinks Tough Battle Against Cru
By Steve Dion

Monday- January 9th	2017	Boys	3A	Metro
Rainier Beach High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Eastside Catholic	22	9	11	22	66
Rainier Beach	18	19	12	22	71

Rainier Beach Senior N’Keil Nelson

In a rare Monday night game in the Metro League, Rainier Beach hosted the Eastside Catholic Crusaders for to make up their regularly scheduled matchup that was postponed earlier this season. Given the current standings with Beach keeping pace at the top and the Cru jockeying for position in the middle of the pack, the stakes were high for this league clash.

The first quarter belonged to the Crusaders, specifically junior Brock Mackenzie who knocked down a flurry of buckets totaling 15 points in the first eight minutes. He would go on to lead all scorers with 28. Jorell Saterfield & N’Keil Nelson led the charge for the Viks in the first half logging eight apiece many of which set up nicely by Kevin Porter Jr. The home team led by 4 at the break.

As the second half progressed, it reached a critical moment when Porter was charged with his fourth personal foul. Could Eastside Catholic rally with the Beach star benched? O’landa Baker answered the call with a spree of slash and dash trips to the cup to give the Crusaders a chance down the stretch.

As the game reached the balance, Nelson took over as he’s done so many times and knocked down the tough buckets while the Crusaders came up empty on a few crucial possessions. The Vikings start their three game week on a good note as they will take on the Lakeside Lions tomorrow and then get set for a mammoth battle on Friday against Garfield.

The Final Score
Rainier Beach 71, Eastside Catholic 66.

Top Performers:
Rainier Beach
N’Keil Nelson- 19 points

Eastside Catholic
Brock Mackenzie- 28 points

Garfield Fends Off Wildcats, Passes Tough Road Test

Posted on January 7, 2017 by Steven Dion

Garfield Fends Off Wildcats, Passes Tough Road Test
By Steve Dion

Friday- January 6th	2017	Boys	3A	Metro
West Seattle High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Garfield	16	9	14	16	55
West Seattle	6	17	9	18	50

Garfield Junior Eddie Turner

Fresh off their trip to the Les Schwab Invitational in Oregon last week, the Garfield Bulldogs took a short tour across the Spokane Street bridge to West Seattle to take on a sneaky West Seattle squad. Without star guard Jaylen Nowell, the Bulldogs were certain to have their hands full to pick up the road win.

Points were at a premium in this game for a pair of teams that typically register high scoring totals. The post presence of J’Raan Brooks was felt early as the junior for Garfield reached double digit in the points column before the break. Meanwhile, Nate Pryor shouldered the load for the home team by scoring 14 of his team’s 23 before the break.

When play resumed, Garfield was able to establish some breathing room thanks to a handful of heady plays by the crafty Curtis Walker who finished with 11 of his 15 in the second half. West Seattle was able to incorporate more weapons on offense like Abdullah Mohamed, Anthony Giomi, and Simon Harris, but Garfield held its ground and was able to retain its lead and keep pace at the top of the Metro League standings.

The Final Score
Garfield 55, West Seattle 50

Top Performers:
Garfield
J’raan Brooks- 16 points

West Seattle
Nate Pryor- 21 points

West Seattle Escapes Lady Bulldog Rally

Posted on January 7, 2017 by Steven Dion

West Seattle Escapes Lady Bulldog Rally
By Steve Dion

Friday- January 6th	2017	Girls	3A	Metro
West Seattle High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Garfield	15	14	12	17	58
West Seattle	17	17	15	13	62

West Seattle Sophomore Jenna McPhee

Two teams jockeying for position near the top of the Metro League standings met at West Seattle HS on Friday night as the host Wildcats welcomed the Garfield Lady Bulldogs. A critical victory was on the line as the sprint to the playoffs has begun.

Defensive intensity defined the course of this game with as Garfield utilized a full-court press throughout and West Seattle was opportunistic in their zone. Samaiyah Tolliver of Garfield and West Seattle’s Meghan Fiso led their teams in the first half with 9 and 15 points respectively in a close contest with several lead changes. As Bulldogs coach Lee Adams pointed out in our pregame interview, execution down the stretch and the ability to make game winning plays is critical.

As the third quarter progressed, West Seattle jumped out front and the depth on the roster Darnell Taylor pointed out was becoming more evident. Jasmine Gayles started to impose her will by attacking the basket and growing the WS lead.

Garfield rallied in the fourth behind the leadership of Juanita Agosto who was able to connect on some crucial runners in the paint. In the waning moments, Jenna McPhee saved her best for last on a backbreaking bucket, her first of the game, that propelled the home team to a victory.

The Final Score
West Seattle 62, Garfield 58.

Top Performers:
West Seattle
Meghan Fiso- 18 points

Garfield
Juanita Agosto- 25 points

Porter Drops 52 in O’Dea Rout

Posted on January 4, 2017 by Steven Dion

Porter Drops 52 in O’Dea Rout
By Steve Dion

Tuesday- January 3rd	2017	Boys	3A	Metro
O'Dea High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
O'Dea	11	22	15	20	68
Nathan Hale	31	26	38	15	110

Nathan Hale Senior Michael Porter Jr.

Fresh off their Les Schwab Invitational championship, top-ranked Nathan Hale returned to league play in 2017 to take on O’Dea. The packed gymnasium was brimming with anticipation to see the high-flying Raiders take on the reigning state runner-up.

In the opening moments, PJ Fuller started the high-scoring affair with a quick 7 points as part of a 31 point first quarter. The tenacious Hale defense matched their unstoppable attack forcing turnovers and setting up Michael Porter with some high-flying slams and pinpoint shooting. The 6’9 senior logged an impressive 52 points and 15 rebounds in the contest.

O’Dea battled until the final whistle despite being down big early on including strong efforts by talented sophomore Noah Williams who scored 28 tough points and Xavier Smith who tallied 21 in the game. When the dust settled, Hale rang in the new year with a dominant 42 point win.

The Final Score
Nathan Hale 110, O’Dea 68.

Top Performers:
Nathan Hale
Michael Porter Jr.- 52 points, 15 rebounds

O’Dea
Noah Williams- 28 points

Wilson Survives Franklin Rally in Tournament of Champions Semifinal Game

Posted on January 2, 2017 by Steven Dion

Wilson Survives Franklin Rally in Tournament of Champions Semi
By Steve Dion

Thursday- December 29th	2016	Boys	Semifinal	Tournament of Champions
Franklin High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Franklin	19	14	34	15	82
Wilson	24	20	19	22	85

Wilson Junior Emmitt Matthews Jr.

In a classic battle of Tacoma & Seattle, Wilson travelled north to Franklin to take on the Quakers on their home floor in the Tournament of Champions semi matchup with a final against Cleveland on the line.

Anthony Stokes jumped out of the game red-hot from beyond the arc knocking down five triples in the first half prompting a Quaker timeout. Emmitt Matthews Jr. joined the fun by attacking the rim using his length in the pain on offense and defense.

Crafty point guard Marquan Williams kept Franklin within striking distance by scoring in a variety of ways and dishing the ball to his teammates. At the break, the Rams held a double-digit lead at 44-33.

As the second half progressed, the Quakers started finding their groove from the perimeter knocking down 11 from the Space Needle to not only even the score, but take the lead in the closing moments. However, Dave Alwert was able to rally his troops and guide Wilson to make the necessary plays down the stretch to survive by three points, which was nearly eclipsed on a desperation flurry of Franklin heaves. The Wilson Rams punched their ticket to the Tournament of Champions final in an unorthodox way, but ultimately accomplished the goal.

The Final Score
Wilson 85, Franklin 82.

Top Performers:
Wilson
Anthony Stokes- 24 points

Franklin
Marquan Williams- 29 points

Cleveland Cruises Past Plainsmen in Semifinal Round

Posted on January 2, 2017 by Steven Dion

Cleveland Cruises Past Plainsmen in Semifinal Round
By Steve Dion

Thursday- December 29th	2016	Boys	Tournament of Champions	Semifinal
Franklin High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Evergreen (Vancouver)	6	31	7	22	66
Cleveland	24	22	26	12	84

Cleveland Junior Jahleel Breland

The defending Tournament of Champions champs Cleveland stood one game away from reaching the final round again with the Evergreen Plainsmen. The Eagles jumped out to a sizeable lead in the first half through opportunistic executing from airtight defense.

CJ Elleby and Fahad Sharif led the charge with 17 and 12 first half points respectively. However, the Plainsmen were able to cut the deficit before the break with Trey Ratcliff attacking the basket and willing his team to with 14 of a 31 point second quarter.

When play resumed, Cleveland found their groove again and put the ballgame out of reach heading into the final frame. Philip White and Jahleel Breland joined the scoring spree in the second half as the Eagles rolled to a 84-66 win. Can Jerry Petty lead his squad to back-to-back tournament wins?

The Final Score
Cleveland 84, Evergreen (Vancouver) 66.

Top Performers:
Cleveland
C.J. Elleby- 23 points

Evergreen (Vancouver)
Trey Ratcliff- 16 points

2017 Coach Interview
Franklin
Head Coach Wes Williams

Posted on December 28, 2016 by Steven Dion

Varsity Hoops Live Coach Interview
Franklin – Head Basketball Coach
Wes Williams

Franklin Quakers Head Coach Wes Williams is preparing to coach his team to play in the Tournament of Champions this week as a girls bracket has been added this year to the tourney. Listen as Coach Williams talks about improvement he is looking forward to on his Quakers team this season and the importance of fan support for girls Metro League hoops!

Franklin Head Coach Wes Williams

To catch the complete interview with Franklin Coach Williams,
simply click on the PLAY BUTTON below.

2017 Coach Interview
Franklin
Head Coach Craig Jackson

Posted on December 28, 2016 by Steven Dion

Varsity Hoops Live Coach Interview
Franklin – Head Basketball Coach
Craig Jackson

Franklin Quakers Head Coach Craig Jackson is getting set to host the Tournament of Champions this week with local and visiting team set to square off. Listen as Coach Jackson gives details about the tournament and also talk about his Quakers squad in a very challenging Metro League!

Franklin Head Coach Craig Jackson

To catch the complete interview with Franklin Coach Craig Jackson,
simply click on the PLAY BUTTON below.

Hoops Overview:
WesCo
Steve Dion & Steve Willits

Posted on December 28, 2016 by Steven Dion

Hoops Overview presented by theFinalScore.TV

Steve Willits from Sound Live Sports Network joins Steve Dion to break down WesCo hoops this season. Who are the top teams in 3A & 4A and which players should you keep an eye on all season? We’ll break it down for you!

Listen to our league overview of the WesCo League by clicking on the PLAY BUTTON below.

Sound-Live-Sports-Network-web250

Be sure to visit SoundLiveSportsNetwork.com and follow Steve’s high school hoops coverage all season long including the ‘Prep Chatter’ podcast at www.theHawkeye.org!

Hoops Overview:
South Sound
Steve Dion & T.J. Cotterill

Posted on December 27, 2016 by Steven Dion

League Overview presented by theFinalScore.TV

Steve Dion and T.J. Cotterill from the Tacoma News Tribune break down high school hoops in the South Sound this season. Which teams have made an early impact heading into the holiday break?

T.J. joins Steve to break down the top players, teams and the overall strength of Sound Sound hoops this year.

Listen to our South Sound Hoops Overview by clicking on the PLAY BUTTON below.

Be sure to visit thenewstribune.com and follow TJ’s high school hoops coverage all season long!

2017 Coach Interview
Cleveland
Head Coach Jerry Petty

Posted on December 27, 2016 by Steven Dion

Varsity Hoops Live Coach Interview
Cleveland – Head Boys Basketball Coach
Jerry Petty

Coming off a 6th place finish in state last season and winners of the 2015 Tournament of Championship which they will look to defend their crown this week at Franklin High School, Cleveland Eagles Head Coach Jerry Petty joins Steve Dion to discuss this year’s squad and how his team is focused on battling against the great competition in the Metro League this year.

Cleveland Head Coach Jerry Petty

To catch the complete interview with Cleveland Coach Jerry Petty,
simply click on the PLAY BUTTON below.

Hoops Overview:
Evergreen League
Steve Dion & Daniel Hargrove

Posted on December 26, 2016 by Steven Dion

League Preview presented by theFinalScore.TV

Listen to the Evergreen League Hoops Overview by clicking on play button below

Evergreen League Hoops Overview with Daniel Hargrove from Fox 1490 KWOK

Hoops Overview: Evergreen League- Daniel Hargrove from Fox 1490 KWOK
12-22-16

Garfield Survives Late Run By Beamer

Posted on December 23, 2016 by Steven Dion

Garfield Survives Late Run By Beamer
By Steve Dion

Thursday- December 22nd	2016	Girls	3A/4A	Metro/NPSL
Garfield High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Todd Beamer	10	8	17	22	57
Garfield	21	14	5	20	60

Garfield Sophomore Samaiyah Tolliver

A Thursday night non-league showdown featured Garfield and Todd Beamer heading into a brief holiday break before the hoops season continues.

The Lady Bulldogs had the upper hand in an tempo-contest during the first half completing their buckets in transitions and closing quarters strong. Tamia Mobley recorded 11 of her 13 points in the first two quarters including a mid-range jumper at the halftime buzzer which put her team up by 17 heading into halftime. The Titans countered with strong post play by Darion Brown who led Todd Beamer with 19 in the ballgame. Would the Titans rally in the final two quarters of play?

Garfield whose intensity carried them in the early stages of the ballgame began to play into Beamer’s favor as the game progressed as the Titans forced turnovers and created fastbreak opportunities to cut the lead down to 5 heading into the final quarter of play.

Beamer’s run continued throughout the fourth until they cut Garfield’s lead down to a single point with 5:21 to play. Points were at a premium the rest of the way and Garfield led by a pair with under 30 tick on the clock. They were able to control the ball enough to force the requisite amount of free throw attempts to eventually dash Beamer’s hope of sneaking in a late win.

The Final Score
Garfield 60, Todd Beamer 57.

Top Performers:
Garfield
Samaiyah Tolliver- 14 points

Todd Beamer
Darion Brown- 19 points

2017 Coach Interview
Rainier Beach
Head Coach Mychal Ladd

Posted on December 22, 2016 by Steven Dion

Varsity Hoops Live Coach Interview
Rainier Beach – Head Basketball Coach
Mychal Ladd

Mychal Ladd has turned the Lady Viks program around in a short period of time and Rainier Beach is off to another strong start this season as his team gets set for tournament play in San Diego during holiday break before league play heats back up. He talks about the keys to creating a well-rounded basketball program and how there is a new energy around the girls basketball at Rainier Beach High School. Have a listen!

Rainier Beach Head Coach Mychal Ladd

To catch the complete interview with Rainier Beach Coach Mychal Ladd,
simply click on the PLAY BUTTON below.

Head Coach Interview – Michelle Hall (Seattle Prep)

Posted on December 21, 2016 by Steven Dion

Varsity Hoops Live Coach Interview
Seattle Prep – Head Basketball Coach
Michelle Hall

Longtime head coach of the Lady Panthers Michelle Hall joins theFinalScore.TV to talk about her young and talented squad this season that has jumped out to a 4-0 start heading into the holiday break. Seattle Prep will head south to California for tournament play to test themselves before jumping back into league play. She also discusses the high level of competition in the Metro League this season.

Seattle Prep Head Coach Michelle Hall

To catch the complete interview with Seattle Prep Coach Michelle Hall,
simply click on the PLAY BUTTON below.