On Monday, Feb. 10, the Archie Williams boys varsity basketball team faced the San Rafael High School Bulldogs for their first Marin County Athletic League (MCAL) playoff game. The Falcons soared over the Bulldogs in a strong 73-57 win.
The game started with a steady back and forth from both teams until Archie Williams senior Dante Stallone opened up the scoring with a fast break. Both teams struggled to score for several minutes until Dante took charge, firing two three-pointers in the fourth minute.
The Bulldogs countered the Falcons’ scoring streak with some shots of their own, but the Falcons’ defense held them off, ending the first quarter 18-14 in favor of Archie Williams.
Archie Williams came out in the second quarter and took San Rafael by surprise, forcing two turnovers within the first two minutes. The Falcons started to grow their lead with a steal from junior Devin Moss, and shortly after, a three-pointer from junior James Butler. With a solid 10-point lead, Archie Williams looked to control the game with speed.
“[We have been focusing on] the balance of speed and control. We want to play faster than most teams, but when we play too fast for our own good, we can get out of control and make mistakes. It’s all about being quick, but not in a hurry,” said head coach Russell Bauer.
The third quarter began with the Bulldogs making a comeback and chipping away at the Falcons’ lead. After a series of shots, San Rafael took the lead for the first time in the game, but Archie Williams didn’t back down. The Falcons took back the lead with three-pointers from both junior Grady Stewart and James.
Archie Williams grew their lead with more three-pointers from junior Ephraim Sohn and Dante in the seventh minute. The Falcons ended the third quarter with a 52-42 lead and looked to close out the game in their favor.
The fourth quarter continued with back and forth between the two teams, but the Falcons comfortably finished the game with a 73-57 win. By winning this game, Archie Williams secured their spot in the semi-finals.
“It was a good bounce-back game. I thought we played great all together and got the job done,” said senior Jasper Cohen.
Archie Williams will take on the Redwood High School Giants on Wednesday, Feb. 12, at Redwood for the MCAL playoff semi-finals.
“I’m really excited. It’s gonna be a big semi-final game at Redwood, just like last year. Hopefully, we can come through and get a win to move on to the finals,” said junior Brian Wright.
