Tyee came to Evergreen on Senior Night… that should have been a clue to the Totems that things were going to be difficult at best.

The Wolverines jumped out to a 14-5 lead in the first period and even though Tyee closed the gap to 24-20 at the end of the half there was a sense that the night belonged to Evergreen.

Prior to the game coach Tony White spoke of his fondness for his team and his seniors. One by one their names were called. Each player was handed a rose which they presented to a family member in the crowd. Banners showing the love lined the wall around the court. Friends, classmates, and family filled the stands. Some student body members came with painted faces, arms, and hands showing their spirit. Everyone was boisterous and excited. This is what makes high school athletics fun.

All of the above was an indicator that the night belonged to Evergreen.

As the third period progressed the Totems pushed back, and as the period ending buzzer sounded Tyee held on to a slim 38-35 lead.

In the fourth, with Evergreen down by six and four minutes to play, coach White took a time out and gathered his team on the sideline. What he told them is unclear, but the results of that talk spoke volumes on the court.

Like flipping a light switch the Wolverines woke up and began to pummel Tyee with physical defense. On more than one occasion things got chippy between players and they had to be separated by officials.

Evergreen stole inbounds passes, knocked the ball out of Tyee players hands and blocked shots under the hoop. All the while scoring inside and out. And as quick as you can say “basketball” the Wolverines had a six point lead with 1:42 left in regulation and never looked back, winning 58-54.

When the final buzzer sounded the crowd flooded the court. Everyone hugged, smiled, and celebrated.

A fitting end to Senior Night.