It was a true David vs. Goliath story at the 2A state basketball final yesterday in Glendale. In the cavernous Jobing.com Arena, home of the hapless Phoenix Coyotes, the boys in green wearing their home whites went up against the Crusaders of Northwest Christian High School.
Northwest Christian, taking advantage of boundary-less recruiting and the offer of full scholarships (yes, in high school!), fielded--or should it be "courted"-- a frontline of fellows going 6'7", 6'5" and 6'4". The tallest Eagle in eyrie is John Orr at six-feet and four.
The predictable result was, in fact, unpredictable until well into the fourth quarter when the Crusaders galloped off to a 10-point lead. The final score -- 56-42. Congratulations to the Thatcher Eagles, nonetheless, on a great season and keeping the final game close until midway through the fourth quarter.
Much to the surprise of the sophomores, Coach Smith pulled out the starters and put in the fledglings with about 45 seconds remaining. Jacob can now and forever say he played in a state championship game and we have the photos to prove it.
