With two more wins last week (81-54 Thunderbird, 67-59 Saguaro), the Falcons Boys moved to 20-3 on the season, and as of print time, appear to be locked in for a well-deserved 1st round bye in the Division 4A State Playoffs. The 24 highest ranked teams qualify for the playoffs, with the top 8 receiving a bye in the 1st round, which starts Friday, 2/9/18. Along with the 1st round bye, the Falcons will receive a home game in round 2, on 2/14/18.
“This is the 2nd time in school history the boys program has achieved a 20 win season.” Said Head Coach Zach Washut. “The boys have made huge strides this year as we essentially had zero returning starters from last year. So they have really made a quick jump and learned what kind of hard work and dedication it takes to play at a high level.” The season has been a tremendous success, but we’re not done yet. The state tourney starts this Friday and we’re excited to not only be a part of it, but to have some home court advantage as well” said Coach Washut.
The success this year has truly been a team effort, with leading contributors Junior Sam Goulet (top rebounder and shot blocks, #2 assists, #2 steals, #3 scorer), Junior Jake Benci (top scorer for the season, #3 rebounds), Senior Julian Johnson (top assists and steals), Junior Duncan Hearn (#2 rebounds), and Junior CJ Nnorom (leading scorer – 2nd half of season, after sitting out 1st half due to AIA school transfer rules). Many would tell you the key to the season has been roster depth, with Junior Knox Riddle, Senior Alex Hamouz, Junior Hayden Lage, Senior Tyler Williams, Junior Harry Denzak, and Senior Adam Hawk providing critical contribution throughout the season. It is no secret the Falcons 2nd unit would compete and likely qualify for the state playoffs in their own right.
FALCON’S RECORD: Overall: 20–3, Section: 5–2. Ranked #5, Division 4A
WHATS NEXT: Home Game, 2nd round of Division 4A State Playoffs, Wednesday 2/14/18. Opponent TBD. Cactus Shadows HS, Blue Gym, 5802 E. Dove Valley Rd., Cave Creek.
