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With balloons as a backdrop, senior Jake Vasquez and his family celebrate his four year career on the team.

With spirits high and Giants supporters filling the stands, the varsity boys’ basketball team faced off against Archie Williams High School after a wholesome senior night ceremony. Posters and roses kicked off the evening, but once the clock started, the boys jumped into action. The game began with the Giants in the lead, both teams driving aggressively to the basket and making many scrappy plays. During the second quarter, the score tightened, with the Falcons up by two going into the third quarter, turning the game into a back-and-forth battle. The defense on both sides was the highlight of the night, as there were many missed three-point opportunities and failed rebounds at the hoop. However, both teams were able to push their way to score layups, adding a layer of physical action. With alternating score leads, the fans were riled, a banter echoing from one side of the gym to the other. Archie Williams was still up by one point with just over a minute to go, but the Giants responded by scoring and pulling ahead with 10 seconds left. The Falcons fouled to stop the clock, allowing seniors Gil Ladetzky and Jake Vasquez to attempt free throw shots. Vasquez was able to make two, bringing the score to 50 to 47. In the last few moments, the gym took a collective breath, holding it in until the timer ran out, making the Giants winners. This victory, dedicated to the seniors, now puts the team on a streak of four triumphs. The boys are now looking ahead at a rematch versus Archie Williams on Wednesday, Feb. 7, for the first game of the playoffs.