On Tuesday, March 24, the Archie Williams Bridge Program held the last of two unified basketball games against San Rafael High School. The Falcons went into the game with high energy and excitement. After four intense 20-minute quarters, the game ended with Archie Williams on top and a final score of 64-60.
The Bridge Program is a small learning community (SLC) for students who require modified learning and core courses. To meet the needs of all individuals, the staff works together to provide integrated learning experiences.
A part of this experience is playing on the Unified Basketball team and competing with other programs across the district. Sophomore Violet Bell talks about the enjoyment that unified basketball brings to her.
“[The game] was very fun and very exciting… especially scoring and just having fun,” said Violet
The first quarter began, and both teams were putting up points back and forth. Within the first five minutes of the game, Archie Williams made a basket, which allowed them to take the lead. San Rafael didn’t let this stop them and came back to tie the game and bring the score to an even 2-2.
13 minutes into the quarter, Archie made their first substitution, which put a new rotation of players on the court. Fresh legs allowed for more passing and scoring by the Falcons, with multiple points coming from junior Leilani Lee. Despite their momentum, the quarter ended with Archie down 13-14.
The second quarter began with Archie ready for a comeback. With great teamwork on defense and encouragement from the student section, the Falcons were able to put a stop to San Rafael’s offense. Senior Nico DeBischopp shot and scored a three-pointer, helping Archie get ahead, and brought the score to 17-14.
With more strong shots coming from Violet, Archie began to gain a comfortable lead. After back-and-forth scoring and less than a minute until halftime, the score was at 24-21 with Archie in the lead. Fans from both sides of the court created an intense, lively atmosphere that continued to fuel the game’s energy. Senior Jamie Lapic talks about the impact of the crowd on his experience playing.
“I felt good. And the crowd was so proud of me. I enjoyed this game,” said Jamie
The third quarter began with persistent scoring coming from both sides of the court. By the time Archie was making their first substitutions at 13 minutes, the score was at 33-22 with Archie ahead. Every player on the court was at the top of their game, and both teams were consistently on the attack.
Archie was playing fast-paced as Leilani received the ball and dribbled it all the way down the court to score another bucket. The energy remained high as every player contributed, with almost every player getting at least one shot attempt, showcasing the team’s inclusivity. San Rafael responded immediately and attempted to narrow the score, leaving it at 40-39.
With the game tightening, both teams pushed hard on offense and defense. Another close scoring exchange brought the game to 43-42, keeping the fans on the edge of their seats as the final quarter approached.
The last quarter was fast-paced and intense, with both teams trading baskets. San Rafael started strong, extinguishing Archie’s lead with multiple scores, going up 45-53. Archie fought back, led by a strong hustle from Nico and consistent assists from his teammates.
Sophomore Cassidy Kissane stepped up to keep the Falcons close, and sophomore Hudson Cordasco scored a huge 3-pointer to shift the momentum. After a substitution brought fresh energy onto the court, Jamie shot a basket, and the student section erupted in excitement. The Bridge program’s head basketball coach, Russell Bauer, discusses the team’s growth and strength as a unit.
“They’re growing all the time. I’m really proud of them. They’re always working so hard in everything, and it’s just awesome for us to be able to showcase it in front of family and students as well,” said Bauer.
In the final moments, Leilani stepped up and brought the score to 62-60 before grabbing a rebound and scoring again to secure the win at 64-60. The game ended with a high-five line and a ribbon ceremony. Although this was their last basketball game, it brought great energy and showcased Archie’s overall strong sense of community and friendship.
