The RCHS boys varsity basketball season came to an end Saturday, March 5, losing 64-69 against Foothill High School in the regional semifinal round of CIF D2 state championships.

“We were so close to the regional final game, but I felt our team played their hearts out,” said varsity guard, junior Shadale Knight. “We gave it all we had to win, we just ended up short.” 

The team made RCHS history by becoming the first ever boys basketball team on campus to make it to the CIF state championships. They played their first state game against Mt. Whitney in Visalia, Calif., where they won 61-57. The Cougars won their second state game against Bakersfield Christian, 67-65. 

Knight described the final game for the Cougars as a “heartbreaker.” 

“Our last game should’ve been a different outcome, honestly. It was a sad feeling knowing this was the last game playing with the seniors,” said varsity guard, junior Donovan Meyer. “We had the talent to go further but unfortunately that didn’t happen. Luckily, we still have a ring to look back on, making school history.”

Emotions were high this last game, especially for the senior players.

“Basketball this year really meant the most to me because this team felt like no other. These guys helped me on and and off the court,” said varsity center and forward, senior Kwabena Banahene. “The last game didn’t go the way we wanted it to. We planned on going to the championship. There’s things we definitely needed to work on but I believe they can win it.”

“I’m proud of my guys and coaches for being the first team in Rancho history to ever make this type of run, and on top of that the first to ever win a ring,” said varsity forward, senior Caleb Tuthill. “Overall, it’s bittersweet but I’m glad I got to experience it with my brothers.”