During the second half of the Class 3A state championship game, it would have been appropriate for everyone in the Tacoma Dome to take a moment to appreciate the greatness. Rainier Beach was holding a basketball clinic, knocking down shots, moving the ball effortlessly, and playing with the intensity that defines champions.

The top-seeded Vikings defeated Edmonds-Woodway 68-48 on Saturday night, securing the school’s 10th state title. It was the final chapter of a season of dominance, as Rainier Beach won its three tournament games by an average margin of 19 points.

Petty Leads the Charge

Jaylen Petty, the senior guard, performed masterfully, scoring 26 points and shooting over 50% from the field. He added three rebounds, two assists, and two steals during a game where he looked like the tournament’s MVP. His two-handed transition dunk in the fourth quarter was the perfect finishing touch on an unforgettable night.

The championship had a special meaning for Petty. He began his career at Rainier Beach and spent his sophomore and junior seasons at Auburn before returning for his senior year. When he returned, he had a dream of lifting the trophy.

“The fact that we came out here, just stayed together as a brotherhood, it means a lot to me,” Petty said.

Team Effort Secures Title

Petty was the star, but Rainier Beach had a balanced attack that was on full display. Kaden Powers and Marques Ili-Meneese had 11 points, with Nyale Robinson adding nine. Edmonds-Woodway never found a rhythm, thanks to the Vikings locking down on the defense and holding Dartmouth commit Cameron Hiatt to just 15 points.

“From the start, we knew we had it,” Powers said. “We’ve been practicing since before June. This is what we worked for.”

One of the Best Teams Ever?

As they secured their latest championship, the question of whether this team was the greatest in Rainier Beach history arose. Mike Bethea, the long-time head coach, was not prepared to go that far, smirking as he let his former players handle the discussion.

“Come by our gym one night this summer, let them argue, and you’ll figure it out,” Bethea joked. “They’ll all be in there ranking the teams. But this one? This was one of the most unselfish teams we’ve ever had.”

Petty and Powers had a straightforward answer.

“Super team,” Petty said. “I think it’s the best team.”

Powers agreed: “I get to talk to my coaches and say my team was the best.”

Jamal Crawford’s Emotional Celebration

After the game, Jamal Crawford, a key player in the program’s success, proudly lifted the championship trophy.

“I’ve held this in for 27 years,” Crawford said. “There’s a lot of noise out there, but there’s even more love. And we’re going to keep spreading love. We’ll keep giving back to the city. This will return to 53rd & Henderson.”

Rainier Beach’s title was not just a championship but a statement. The Vikings have checked every box this season, and now they stand as one of the greatest teams in program history.