After claiming the KingCo4A title, an epic snowstorm forced the Mount Si boys basketball team to wait for its chance to compete in the Wes-King 4A District Playoffs. The Wildcats finally got back on the court last Friday, in a game relocated to Issaquah High School because the Mount Si gym was still inaccessible due to the massive snow cleanup facing the Snoqualmie Valley School District.
Mount Si was victorious against Mariner High School in its first Wes-King 4A District playoffs, a game which also secured them a state tournament berth. They returned to the court Saturday to face Glacier Peak at Jackson High School in Mill Creek. It took overtime, but Mount Si again came out on top, winning 60-53.
On Monday, February 18th, Mount Si faced off against Jackson High School of the WesCo 4A conference for the Wes-King District title. According to team photographer Curt Carlson, it was a back and forth game, with the Wildcats down by 7+ points twice during the first half – and also leading by two at one point. The second quarter ended with Mount Si 29 – Jackson 28. The second half saw the Wildcats dominate much of the time, even holding a 10 point lead at one point. But with time dwindling, Jackson staged a comeback and made a last second shot to time the game and force overtime. In the 4 minute overtime Mount Si pulled away and took the 4A District title 65-56.
The victory also secured the Wildcats the #4 seed in the WIAA 4A State Tournament, which begins this Friday, February 22nd when Mount Si faces 5th ranked Richland in the regional round at Issaquah High School. Tip off is at 6PM. Mount Si is also guaranteed a state playoff game at the Tacoma Dome the following weekend. That game is determined by Friday night’s result, with a win putting the Wildcats into the quarterfinals and giving them a first-day bye in Tacoma.
The WIAA website has information on ticket prices and tournament brackets. Tickets are $12 and $9 for students with Mount Si ASB cards.
