Granada Survives Overtime Thriller Against Fremont-Oakland, 72-70

UPDATE: The Granada Matadors triumphed over the Fremont-Oakland Tigers with a nail-biting score of 72-70 in overtime during the Double Goal Coaches Classic on January 6, 2024. This victory marks an impressive start to their season, as Granada showcases its potential as a contender in the East Bay Athletic League.

The game unfolded at a packed McClymonds gymnasium, where both teams battled fiercely. Granada, led by standout performances from Brandon Hahn, who scored 25 points and grabbed 15 rebounds, demonstrated remarkable poise under pressure. Despite a spirited comeback from Fremont, which cut a double-digit deficit to just three points in the final seconds, Granada secured the win with clutch plays in both regulation and overtime.

Fremont guard Roy Bishop Jr. contributed 20 points in the loss, showcasing the competitive spirit of the Tigers. “We practiced for this exact moment yesterday, and I’m proud of how we executed,” said Granada head coach Quaran Johnson Sr., who is back on the bench after a leave of absence last season to care for his newborn child.

With this victory, Granada has started the season strong, winning 8 of its first 10 games, a significant turnaround from last year’s struggles. “They needed last season to learn from it,” Johnson remarked. “Now, we’re focused on restoring our culture and aiming for a state championship.”

Granada initially surged ahead, leading by as much as 14 points in the first half. The dynamic duo of Johnson Jr. and Hahn combined for 19 of Granada’s 34 first-half points. However, Fremont’s tenacious full-court press allowed them to claw back, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.

In the final moments of regulation, Johnson Jr. hit a critical jumper with just 6.7 seconds left, tying the game and forcing overtime. “I knew I had to make that shot,” he reflected. In overtime, freshman Malcom Davis delivered a pivotal three-pointer, putting Granada ahead for good.

The game was a testament to the resilience and determination of both teams, as Granada looks to reclaim its status as a powerhouse in high school basketball. “If we keep playing like this, who knows what we can achieve?” Hahn stated confidently.

In other notable games, No. 9 Amador Valley edged out No. 15 Oakland Tech with a score of 57-50, despite Oakland Tech’s impressive comeback from a 20-point deficit. Amador’s Elijah Stanley sealed the game with a crucial block. Meanwhile, Ygnacio Valley triumphed over host McClymonds 67-62, while Pinole Valley extended its undefeated streak to seven games with a dominating win over Elite-Vallejo, finishing 88-49.

The excitement of high school basketball is palpable as teams continue to vie for supremacy in their leagues. Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from this thrilling season.