Falcons stumbled in defeat against defending MCAL champion Branson Bulls

Sean Chamberlin, Cub Sports Editor • January 19, 2024

Junior Dante Stallone drives towards the basket against Branson defender.

On Tuesday, Jan. 9, the Archie Williams boys varsity basketball team played against the reigning Marin County Athletic League (MCAL) champions, the Branson Bulls in the Falcons home gym. Although the Falcons kept it close throughout, the Bulls ended up pulling out the win.

Senior Owen Bugas jumps above Branson defender to shoot the ball.

In the first quarter, the Falcons started off hot, hitting four shots from behind the three point line. They were leading in this quarter by as many as 10 points,

Senior Julian Nichol takes his free throw after being fouled. (Dempsey Boone)

18-8. Branson sophomore DJ Armstrong ended the quarter with a halfcourt buzzerbeater making the score 18-13.

To start the second quarter, Branson went on a 0-9 run to take the lead from the Falcons 18-22. The Falcons continued their efficient shooting, keeping them close with the defending champions. At the end of the half Archie Williams led Branson 30-29.

In the third quarter, Branson found their stride and controlled the game. They forced many turnovers and the Falcons struggled to score. The Bulls would go on an 0-11 run to take a commanding lead. The quarter ended with Branson leading 49-38 ahead of the Falcons.

“We can’t keep giving wins away because of forced turnovers, that really killed us tonight,” said senior Owen Bugas.

Senior Owen Bugas looks for an open pass with pressure from a Branson side of the court. (Luca Roy)

The fourth quarter was much of the same with Branson keeping their assertive lead. Although the Falcons started to hit some shots near the end of the game, it was not enough to rally a winning drive. The Falcons ended the game losing 57-65.

Head coach Russel Bauer said a key player for the Falcons was sophomore Brian Wright and his ability to finish shots inside.

Archie Williams Dance Troupe performs during the halftime break. (Dempsey Boone)

“To hang with a team who has dreams of winning state shows the grit and talent of this team and I am proud of them for that,” Bauer said.

The Falcons play their next game against Miramonte High School on Saturday, Jan. 13. They hope to take home a victory in an away game for the Falcons.

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About the Contributors

Sean Chamberlin, Cub Sports Editor

Sean is a sophomore, in his first year of journalism. He spends his time outside of school running on his cross country team or playing soccer. He joined the class because of his interest in photography and writing.

Carolyn Morris, Cub Sports Editor

Carolyn is a junior, in her second year of journalism. She plays three different sports, basketball, lacrosse, and tennis. She can often be found sleeping, listening to Kendrick Lamar, or admiring her favorite color, "grass green".

Dempsey Boone, Cub Multimedia Editor

Dempsey is a junior, in her first year of journalism. She runs track and field, her favorite event is hurdles. Outside of school she can be found watching modern family or taking photos.

Luca Roy, Cub Editor-in-Chief

Luca is a junior, in his second year of journalism. You can often find him cooking, snowboarding/skiing, or getting a nose job. He is also an avid rock climber and photographer.

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Falcons stumbled in defeat against defending MCAL champion Branson Bulls

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