Editor’s note: This story has been updated following the results of Monday’s games.
During Lake Washington High School’s 100th year anniversary, the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams are both 3A regular season champions for the first in the same year, but more is yet to come.
Following the 3A Regular Season Conference, senior guard Rosa Smith was named KingCo 3A Conference MVP (most valuable player) and first team. Senior Elise Hani was also named KingCo 3A Conference first-team, and Defensive Player of the Year. Jolie Sim and Rae Butler Wu, both juniors, also received All-League Honorable Mentions.
Head coach Jeff Wilson was named KingCo 3A Coach of the Year for the second year in a row.
After winning the regular season title for the third consecutive year, the Lady Kangs were seeded first in the KingCo Playoffs, which span Feb. 4-9.
On Feb. 7, the Lady Kangs defeated the Juanita Ravens by 64-56. The Lady Kangs are scheduled to play Hazen at LWHS on Feb. 9 at 6:30p.m. for first or second place.
Due to their regular season win, the Lady Kangs automatically qualify to play in the 3A District 2 Girls Basketball Tournament, also known as “SeaKing.”
SeaKing will take place Feb. 12-19 at Bellevue College and LWHS. The winner of the Feb. 9 KingCo Playoffs will be the number two seed in the SeaKing tournament.
On Feb. 7, the Kangs defeated Hazen by 61-45. The boys’ basketball team then plays on Feb. 9 8:15 p.m. for first or second place.
During the 3A Regular Season Conference, senior Ben Nyquist was named Defensive Player of the Year and All-League First-Team. Senior Zach Pemble and junior Aiden Carlson received recognition for All-League Second Team. Seniors Brady Dean and Dylan Lettice also received All-League Honorable Mentions.
Ryan Staudacher was also named KingCo 3A Coach of the Year.
Tailgate time
Prior to the Feb. 9 KingCo Playoffs, LWHS is hosting a tailgater on Feb. 8 after school, according to athletic director Richard O’Leary.
“They are giving away pizza to students, encouraging the students to come to the basketball game,” said O’Leary.
Kirkland residents are invited to support the student athletes during the KingCo. Playoffs by attending the games.
Lady Kangs. Courtesy of Lady Kangs
