Northwest Conference Boys Basketball
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Over and Back 2023
Mar 15, 2023 3:39 PM

Nine 1A and 2A boys and girls teams from the Northwest Conference took a trip to the SunDome in Yakima for their respective state tournaments. While it was difficult losing three on Wednesday’s elimination day, the other six were still playing on Saturday. Half of those six won championships. The other three finished second, second, and third.

This is still the Northwest Conference of Champions.

2022-23 All-Northwest Conference Boys Basketball Teams
Mar 7, 2023 3:27 PM

The 2022-23 edition of the All-Northwest Conference Boys Basketball team has been announced, as voted on by league coaches.

The Player of the Year is Sophomore, Davis Fogle, from NWC Champion, Anacortes.

The Coach of the Year is Brett Senff, also from Anacortes. The Assistant Coach of the year is Lakewood's TJ Rice.

For the complete list of first and second teams, please see the attachment below.

Post Attachments2022-23 All-Northwest Conference Boys Basketball
Lions Earn Back-to-Back Titles
Mar 5, 2023 1:05 AM

For the second consecutive year, for the fourth in the last 5 years, and for the 12 time in their history, the Lynden Lions are state basketball champions. The Lions smothered the Mark Morris Monarchs 61-43 for the 2023 State basketball title, in the Yakima SunDome.

Lyncs Repeat as 1A Champions
Mar 4, 2023 7:34 PM

In a repeat performance, the Lynden Christian Lyncs successfully defended their 2022 1A state championship and will keep the big Gold Ball for another year. The Lyncs defeated the Kings Knights in the title game for the second year in a row, 57-47, for their eighth state championship.

Borderites Capture Third Place
Mar 4, 2023 3:23 PM

With a short turn around time, the Blaine Borderites recovered nicely from their semifinal loss to Kings, in time to shoot their way past the Toppenish Wildcats, 70-60, to take home the third-place trophy in the 2023 1A Boys State Tournament.

Friday's Semi's Sets Up a List of Championship Rematches
Mar 4, 2023 1:15 PM

Over a span of 12 games played by Northwest Conference boys and girls teams in the 1A and 2A state tournaments on Thursday and Friday, Northwest Conference teams went 11-1. Of the 16 semifinalists, six represented the NWC. Five of those advanced to their respective championship games.

Borderites Soar Past Owls Into State Semi's
Mar 2, 2023 11:54 PM

The Blaine Borderites, taking a page from the “Quick Start Guide,” used by Lynden and Lynden Christian earlier in the day, got out of the gate early and rolled past #8 Overlake, 80-52, in a 1A state quarterfinal game, Thursday at the Yakima SunDome.

#1 Lynden Christian Pieces Together Win Over #2 Zillah
Mar 2, 2023 8:36 PM

The Lynden Christian Lyncs got off to a quick start against the Zillah Leopards, only to have to dig deep to patch together a plan and a lineup that would get them to the finish line. They did, and in the end, the Lyncs battled to a 58-45 victory in a 1A state quarterfinal game in the Yakima SunDome.

#6 Lynden Returns to Semi's after Win over #13 North Kitsap
Mar 2, 2023 3:33 PM

The Lynden Lions scored the first ten points of the game and never looked back, as they crushed the North Kitsap Vikings, 68-38, in a 2A state quarterfinal game, Thursday at the Yakima SunDome.

Anacortes and Sehome Eliminated
Mar 1, 2023 4:58 PM

Was it the water? The higher altitude of Eastern Washington? The dome’s this or that? In trying to figure out how and why two of the Northwest Conference’s best were eliminated on State Tournament Wednesday, there is nothing to blame. They were just beaten by teams that were more on their game on this day.

Great Season Geared Up for a Fantastic Finish
Feb 26, 2023 9:34 AM

The greatest season ever of the Northwest Conference took a bit of a hit on Saturday. But, despite losses by Anacortes and Sehome, everyone’s goals remain in reach.

In the 2A boys tournament, the #2 Seahawks lost to #7 Prosser, Saturday at Arlington High School, 74-69. The #5 Mariners, lost at WF West High School, to #4 Mark Morris, 84-72. On the victors side, #6 Lynden routed #3 Renton, 70-52, at Auburn Mountainview High School, Friday night.

Bulldogs Season Ends with Loss to Walla Walla
Feb 22, 2023 4:57 PM

There have been some huge crowds at the Mount Vernon Gym this season. I’ve seen the Bulldogs at home against Sehome, Lynden Christian, Lynden, and Blaine. I’ve also been there for 2A District Tournament games. Each has had huge, lively crowds.

NWC Boys Regional Opponent Previews
Feb 21, 2023 4:15 PM

3A Regional Play-In at Mount Vernon, Tuesday 7pm

#20 Walla Walla Blue Devils vs #13 Mount Vernon Bulldogs

Northwest Conference Sending Eleven to State
Feb 19, 2023 11:57 AM

The Mount Vernon Gym was again bulging at the seams as the final two 2A boys District Tournament games took place Saturday night. The Anacortes Seahawks, champions of the Northwest Conference, added a couple nets and the District Championship trophy to their hallway, as they defeated the Sehome Mariners, 55-45.

2A Elimination Day & Headed Toward Big Saturday
Feb 17, 2023 4:52 PM

We went over how tight Tuesday’s 2A District Tournament games were. To review, Squalicum got a four-point “blow-out” over Burlington-Edison, while Anacortes had a three-point victory over Lakewood. The two-point wins went to Sehome over Lynden, and Archbishop Murphy over Cedarcrest.

On Thursday at Mount Vernon High School, one elimination game was right in line with the previous four, as Lakewood came away with a 55-50 win over Squalicum. And Lynden, well, they broke the mold with a 65-25 elimination of Archbishop Murphy.

SPECIAL EDITION: District Tournament Update
Feb 15, 2023 8:30 PM

What was the greatest Northwest Conference boys basketball season ever, is quickly morphing into what could end up being the greatest post-season ever.

On Tuesday night, there were four games in the 2A District 1 Tournament. The largest margin of victory was a meager four points. One had a three-point difference, and the other two were decided by a deuce. All four were in play until the final seconds.

1A Champs Crowned; 2A & 3A Heating Up
Feb 12, 2023 12:17 PM

Champions have been crowned in the 1A District 1 tournament, while the 2A’s and 3A’s press on.

The Lynden Christian Lyncs boys and the Nooksack Valley girls cut the nets down at Lynden High School on Saturday. The LC boys defeating Blaine, 65-40, while the Pioneer girls got past the LC girls 55-45. The winners advance to next Saturday’s crossover games with District 2, held at Kings High School.

1A & 2A Tournaments Heat Up Saturday
Feb 10, 2023 4:52 PM

The 2A District Tournament began on Thursday, as the ten entrants from District 1 was whittled down to eight with two play-in games. #8 Archbishop Murphy eliminated #9 Bellingham 56-41, and #7 Squalicum did the same to #10 Sedro-Woolley, 56-44.

The Wildcats and the Storm advance to the double-elimination bracket, with ATM playing at #1 Anacortes at 730pm on Saturday, and the Storm will be at #2 Lynden at 3pm, also on Saturday.

Admission Information for 1A-2A District Tournaments
Feb 9, 2023 9:05 AM

For boys and girls district tournament games at Lynden and Mount Vernon High Schools, you can use the GoFan app or GoFan.com website to purchase tickets online. You can purchase tickets at the door at those venues.

There are GoFan links in the tournament brackets.

Admissions:

Adults/Students w/o ASB $8.00

Students w/ASB $6.00

Children 5-12 years $6.00

Seniors over 62 years $6.00

(GoFan service fee is #1.40 per ticket)

1A Boys District Preview
Feb 9, 2023 2:18 PM

1A Boys District Preview

Wednesday, 730pm at Blaine

#3 Meridian (6-9/11-9) vs #2 Blaine (10-5/13-6)

Borderites beat the Trojans 78-55 on January 10, in Blaine.

District Tournament Basketball on the Air
Feb 9, 2023 12:43 PM

District Tournament Basketball on the air:

Wednesday, Feb 8

Girls: Sedro-Woolley at Lakewood, 715pm

KAPS 660AM / 102.1FM & KapsRadio.com

Boys: Nooksack Valley at Lynden Christian, 730p

KGMI 790AM / 96.5FM

Pregame 715pm

Girls: Shorewood at Ferndale, 700pm

KPUG 1170AM / 97.9FM

Pregame 645pm

Saturday, Feb 11

Boys: Squalicum/Sedro (Winner) at Lynden, 300pm

KPUG 1170AM / 97.9FM

Pregame 245pm

Girls: Lynden Christian vs Nooksack Valley, 500pm

KGMI 790AM / 96.5FM

Pregame 445pm

~ Ted House

We Have a Winner in the NWC's Greatest Regular Season
Feb 5, 2023 12:06 PM

We have a winner!

Congratulations to the Anacortes Seahawks, their 14-1 conference record, and their outright Northwest Conference championship. The Seahawks outpaced the 13-2 records of Sehome, Lynden and Lynden Christian, in possibly the toughest Northwest Conference schedule ever.

Offenses Winning Out as Teams Battle for Top Spots
Jan 29, 2023 1:41 PM

For the third straight week, several of the Northwest Conference’s best faced each other, an no one made it through unscathed. After several standing eight counts over the past two weeks, all teams need to put the finishing touches on the regular season, and see where the district tournament chips will fall.

Role Players Time to Shine
Jan 22, 2023 12:14 PM

Any boss or coach, who is really in tune to the development of a business or team, knows the value of a support staff. While others may get the big money, or their name in the list of top ten scorers, it can be the support staff that really pushes that business or team to the top.

And then, there were two...
Jan 15, 2023 11:37 AM

From what I can remember, I’ve talked about free throws, jump shots, and outlet passes. With all the big games now happening between teams at the top of the league, I don’t have time to help you with more fundamentals this week. But, if you want to practice some entry passes, that would be nice.

Make sure the post player gets position with his defender having to pick a side to play defense on. Then as he holds out the hand, opposite of said defender, hit that hand with a nice lob pass, leading him right to the rim. Two every time!

5 Undefeated Teams Remain
Jan 8, 2023 12:34 PM

In an unprecedented display, on January 8, 2023, five Northwest Conference teams remain undefeated in league play. Obviously, none of those five (Sehome, Anacortes, Blaine, Lynden, Lynden Christian) have played each other, but that changes this week.

Only one team has a perfect record on the season, and that’s the Lynden Christian Lyncs (11-0). On Monday, they will take that record to Anacortes, in the first battle of the unbeatens. The Seahawks are 6-0 in the NWC and 10-1 overall.

As long as Lynden and Blaine win their respective games early this week, they will also meet as undefeated NWC teams on Thursday in Blaine. Those teams can’t look ahead to things like that, be we can.

Holiday Tune-ups for the Stretch Run
Jan 1, 2023 2:26 PM

The holiday break started earlier than expected for Northwest Conference teams when last week’s deep freeze cancelled ten games in the days before Christmas. There was a break in the game schedule, but certainly not in team practice schedules, as teams pressed on to prepare for holiday events. This past week, three NWC programs got two games each at Mountlake Terrace High School, while five more got a dry run of their hopeful future state tournament arena, the Yakima SunDome.

Hey, Get off the Floor
Dec 18, 2022 2:56 PM

In that spring season of 2021, I made you all better free throw shooters. Now, let’s tackle the art of jump-shooting. Well, when you’re on defense never tackle (or even foul) a jump-shooter. Coaches hate that. So, when you are on offense, keep that in mind.

Having a reliable jump-shot is the number one offensive weapon to have, in my book. I haven’t seen every team in the league play yet, but I have seen some players with great jump-shots. I’ll list some of them and recap the week in the Northwest Conference.

You Better Watch Out
Dec 11, 2022 12:35 PM

You better watch out

You better not cry,

Better not be surprised at NWC outcomes,

I’m telling you why.

Tis the first week of the regular season, and the above lyrics seem apropos. An early season wake up call for the rest of the Northwest Conference to be on their toes, always.

MVHS at BEHS Broadcast Friday
Dec 9, 2022 8:24 AM

Friday’s “Battle of the Bridge” basketball games between Mount Vernon and Burlington-Edison will be broadcast around the world on KBRC 1430AM / 102.9FM and KBRCRadio.com.

The girls game begins at 6pm, with the boys following at 8pm. Both games will be at Burlington-Edison High School.

The Lynden boys were scheduled to play Lapwai, ID, High School on Saturday, but that game has been cancelled.

Check out the NFHS network for NWC basketball broadcasts.

~ Ted House

Top 10 Matchups Highlight Week 1
Dec 4, 2022 10:27 AM

Week one of the basketball season is in the books, and we still have three teams absent due to football successes. The rest are cranking it up, and there was a nice 3-team triangle of highly regarded 1A’s that went on amidst the strong northeast winds. Thanks Canada!

NWC Basketball Starts This Week
Nov 28, 2022 4:38 PM

Winning a state basketball championship is at the top of every team’s pyramid. Only twelve will reach that pinnacle. I can’t win a championship from here, so my goals are a bit different. If I am fortunate enough to reach the SunDome in Yakima for my 38 consecutive state tournament appearance, I plan to hoist a Triple-Berry Lemonade. They are proven to be championship caliber. And surely, more than just one.

Over & Back, 2022
Mar 9, 2022 7:37 PM

If the Pac-12 Conference ever wants to sell the rights to their slogan, panned exclusively and often by Bill Walton, I may have a buyer for it.

The Pac-12 “Conference of Champions” should rightly be renamed, “The Northwest Conference of Champions.”

2021-22 All Northwest Conference - Boys Basketball Teams
Mar 7, 2022 7:29 PM

The 2021-22 boys basketball All Conference teams have been announced.

The Player of the Year award in the NWC goes to Andrew Hommes, who led the Lyncs to the NWC title on the way to the 2022 1A state championship.

The Coach of the Year is Brett Farrar, who guided the Blaine Borderites to the 1A state tournament.

For the complete list of first and second teams, please see the attachment below.

Post Attachments2021-22 All Northwest Conference - Boys Basketball
Lyncs Comeback Nips Knights for 7th State Title
Mar 5, 2022 10:03 PM

The Lynden Christian Lyncs overcame a 16-point third quarter deficit, and edged the Kings Knights, 61-58, to capture their seventh state championship in program history. The Lyncs lost to the Knights in the 2020 title game, and had to wait an extra year to gain revenge.

Lions Win Eleventh Basketball Championship
Mar 5, 2022 5:56 PM

For the eleventh time in history, and for the third time in the last four tournaments, the Lynden Lions are the state 2A basketball champions. The Lions earned the 2022 title by defeating the Pullman Greyhounds 51-34, Saturday, in the Yakima SunDome.

Lions Edge RA Long in State Semis
Mar 5, 2022 12:40 AM

It’s been said that “defense wins championships.” If Lynden wins this championship, their defense will certainly be a big part of it.

On a night when their offense had it’s ups and downs, the Lynden defense held strong in key situations, and the Lions won a 46-44 slugfest against the RA Long Jumberjacks. The win sends the Lions in search of their program’s 11th state title. They will play the Pullman Greyhounds for the 2A championship, Saturday, at 3pm in the Yakima SunDome.

Lyncs Earn Championship Rematch with Kings
Mar 4, 2022 8:05 PM

Lyncs Earn Championship Rematch with Kings

The Lynden Christian Lyncs earned a hard-fought 53-49 victory over a very tough Life Christian Academy team, giving the Lyncs a date with the Kings Knights in Saturday’s 1A state championship game. The Knights edged the Lyncs in the 2020 title game, 70-67 in overtime.

Mariners Denied State Trophy by Tumwater
Mar 4, 2022 3:59 PM

The Sehome Mariners season ended one win short of a state tournament trophy. The Mariners lost to the Tumwater Thunderbirds, 62-47, in the 2A state basketball tournament, Friday, in the Yakima SunDome.

Lynden Returns to State Semis With Win Over Sehome
Mar 4, 2022 12:24 AM

Although the Sehome Mariners played very well, the third time was not the charm as the Lynden Lions defeated the Mariners 72-60, in the 2A state quarterfinals, Thursday night in the Yakima SunDome.

Lyncs Advance to 1A State Semi's
Mar 3, 2022 3:59 PM

The Lynden Christian Lyncs had a plan on offense and a plan on defense. Both worked to perfection as the Lyncs cruised past the Quincy Jackrabbits, 67-44, Thursday in the Yakima SunDome. They now land in the state semifinals for the fourth time in the last five seasons.

Sehome Advances With Win Over Lakewood
Mar 2, 2022 11:53 PM

The first meeting of the season between the Sehome Mariners and the Lakewood Cougars was in the elimination round of the 2A state tournament in Yakima’s SunDome. The Mariners came away with a 42-40 win, ending the season for the Cougars.

Borderites Fall to Quincy at 1A State Tournament
Mar 2, 2022 3:59 PM

The Blaine Borderites season came to an end on Wednesday, in the Yakima SunDome. The Quincy Jackrabbits strong second half led them to a 69-51 victory over the Borderites in the 1A State Tournament.

State Tournament Mini-Preview
Mar 1, 2022 11:39 AM

There are five Northwest Conference boys basketball teams that will be squeaking their tennies on the SunDome floor in Yakima this week. But they aren’t spread out very far. Of the five, only Blaine will, for sure, play a team from outside the conference.

Lyncs Depth Wins Out Over Young Gators
Feb 27, 2022 12:29 AM

It wasn’t exactly “Out with the old, and in with the new” on Saturday night in the Mount Vernon Gym. In fact, you could call it, “In with the old, and in with the new.”

The “old,” were the Lynden Christian Lyncs, and the “new” were the Annie Wright Gators. The old and the new came together in regional play, with the old earning a 66-54 win over the new.

Lyncs Depth Wins Out Over Young Gators
Feb 27, 2022 12:30 AM

It wasn’t exactly “Out with the old, and in with the new” on Saturday night in the Mount Vernon Gym. In fact, you could call it, “In with the old, and in with the new.”

The “old,” were the Lynden Christian Lyncs, and the “new” were the Annie Wright Gators. The old and the new came together in regional play, with the old earning a 66-54 win over the new.

Blaine & Lakewood Survive Regional Elimination Games
Feb 26, 2022 6:20 PM

Blaine 50, Wahluke 48

The Blaine Borderites withstood a furious comeback by the Wahulke Warriors, but hung on in the final seven seconds, for a 50-48 win, in the 1A regionals Saturday, in the Mount Vernon Gym. The win sends the Borderites on a trip to the SunDome in Yakima.

The Borderites will take on the Quincy Jackrabbits, who lost to Kings, 81-57 on Saturday. That game will be an elimination game at 2pm on Wednesday.

Big Fourth Quarter Sends Lions to Quarterfinals
Feb 26, 2022 12:01 AM

Do you know that person who doesn’t talk much, but when he does, you know better listen? Lynden Lion senior guard Kaleo Jandoc doesn’t shoot much, but when he does, you better watch.

Jandoc scored two points through the first three quarters of the Lions 2A regional basketball game against Port Angeles but nailed two crucial 3-pointers late in the fourth quarter. The second-seeded Lions played from behind all night, but survived the Roughriders, 58-48, in front of a big crowd in the Mount Vernon High School Gym.

Quick Scout of Northwest Conference Regional Opponents
Feb 24, 2022 6:15 AM

Blaine, Lynden Christian, Lakewood, Lynden, and Sehome will represent the Northwest Conference in this weekend’s regional round, on the boys side. Here is a quick scouting report of their opponents.

Golden Eagles Season Ends in Kennewick
Feb 22, 2022 8:32 PM

The Ferndale Golden Eagles traveled to Kennewick High School for a “regional play-in” game with the hometown Lions. The teams literally traded 3-point shots through the first 16 minutes, but the Lions prevailed in the second half, ending Ferndale’s season, 80-62.

Lync & Borderite Wins Scan Them to Regional Play
Feb 20, 2022 10:31 AM

Told ya I had nothing clever for that yet.

The Lynden Christian Lyncs and the Blaine Borderites completed the crossover portion of their Bi-District tournament with victories, sending both to the regional round of the state tournament.

Lynden Takes District Title: Lakewood Claims Third
Feb 19, 2022 10:56 AM

This time of year, only the really good teams are still around, and in order to prevail, you have to be playing your best. On Friday night at Mount Vernon High School, Lakewood and Lynden may have put together their best all-around efforts of the year.

A Six-Iron and Now a Five-Iron?
Feb 17, 2022 6:53 PM

This time of year, there is a popular phrase, or cliché, that is used for teams that are fortunate enough to advance to the state tournament. This channel does not “punch tickets,” but I haven’t found a clever way to use a “scan” or “QR” code to do the trick.

Post-Season Rolling in Full NWC Force
Feb 12, 2022 5:12 PM

The first week of the post-season for Northwest Conference teams has flown by, with just about everything following according to seeding. Top 1A seed, Lynden Christian, won the 1A district title. The top four seeds have advanced to the semifinals in the 2A tournament. The only real “bracket-buster” was in 3A, where #7 Ferndale handled #2 Shorecrest on Tuesday, giving the Golden Eagles to the quarterfinals.

(Updated to include Archbishop Murphy - Burlington-Edison)

Season Complete, Anticipation Begins
Feb 6, 2022 11:38 AM

Like the “An-tis-a-pa-shun” of Heinz out of a ketchup bottle, we await the unfolding of the post-season. The final regular season games have been played for the 2021-22 season of the Northwest Conference. Most teams were able to play 13 or 14 games. Ferndale was able to play all 15, but Lakewood only nine. Given the unbalance of the season, all 16 teams will have a post-season.

Lions Edge Lyncs and More NWC Festivities
Jan 30, 2022 11:55 AM

The game of the week was certainly the Lynden Christian-Lynden battle on Friday night at Jake Maberry Gymnasium. The two teams keep that date on the schedule in backs of their minds from the first day of practice in the fall, when they start on 6-foot hoops at age five. The Lions won a typical thriller, 63-60, but other things happened on the way to that night.

Lakewood Returns as League Play Winds Down
Jan 23, 2022 11:59 AM

The biggest story of the week has to be the return of the Lakewood Cougars. On Friday, their trip to Lynden Christian was their first game since December 29. The virus positives, plus quarantine time rolled through their team over that span of 23 days. Though their first game back was an 83-51 loss to the Lyncs, I think they would take that situation as a “win.”

Still Winter, But Things Are Growing
Jan 16, 2022 12:28 PM

We’ve been through a lot this winter. Some, more than others. But no group has dealt with more in our area than those in the Northeast part of Whatcom County. From 100+ temps in the summer of 2021, to the depths of floods in the fall, to the freeze of the winter. From all of that, maybe something beautiful has began to grow. More on that later.

NWC Schedule Battling the Elements
Jan 9, 2022 9:56 AM

For the past two weeks, Northwest Conference basketball teams have been dodging snowflakes and covid. Though there were cancellations, it seems like the schedule is starting to come together again.

Ferndale’s 76-56 win over Sedro-Woolley on Saturday, was the Golden Eagles first game since December 21. Bellingham was on the floor Saturday for the first time since December 16, in a 74-40 loss at Lynden Christian. Lakewood is still waiting. The Cougars last game was in the Yakima SunDome on December 29, in a loss to Brewster. They are scheduled to play Mount Vernon this Friday.

NWC Hoops Hurdles the Holidays
Dec 26, 2021 9:43 AM

It was a shortened script in the Northwest Conference basketball race last week. But that doesn’t mean it was short on intrigue. There are now three teams that remain undefeated in league play, Mount Vernon, Lynden Christian, and Lakewood. We had an upset that was years in the making, and you can hand out the league’s Most Inspirational Player award, right now.

Love a Good Rivalry
Dec 19, 2021 12:11 PM

Headlining the week for me, was the Tiger-Hawk Challenge. Wednesday’s event between Burlington-Edison and Anacortes was a double-header for the girls and boys teams, and the third one that I have attended.

I love it because the gym is packed for both games. Student sections are large, loud, and proud. And along with the events on the floor, there are also competitions between student sections and drumlines.

Week 2 in Review & NWC History 101
Dec 12, 2021 7:59 AM

This was the second full week in the 16th season of the Northwest Conference. It was the beginning of conference games, and there were several team and individual highlights in the six games that I was able to take in.

With 15 NWC seasons in the books (yes, including Spring ’21), I thought it was about time to reveal some historical records that our teams have achieved over that period of time.

Hoop Season Back in Session
Dec 1, 2021 5:56 PM

After the shortest off-season ever, it’s great to have some indoor basketball back in the routine. No more sunbaked gyms, and no more tan lines on winter athletes. They don’t belong.

Congratulations go out to our first night winners: Sedro-Woolley, Burlington-Edison, and Bellingham. I was able to catch the Bayhawks win at Meridian on Tuesday night.

2021 All Northwest Conference Boys Basketball Teams
Jun 27, 2021 12:20 PM

The All Northwest Conference Boys Basketball Teams have been announced for the 2021 season.

The Coaches have voted Lynden Lion junior, Jordan Medcalf, as the league's Most Valuablel Player.

Co-Coaches of the year are Brett Senff of Anacortes, and Brian Roper of Lynden.

Teams played an unbalanced schedule with a maximum of 14 games, including non-league.

For a complete list of players on First and Second teams, and Honorable Mention, please visit the link below.

Post Attachments2021 All Northwest Conference, Boys Basketball
The Season That Will Not Be Forgotten
Jun 27, 2021 12:08 PM

While everything outside the lines was different, in the 2021 Northwest Conference basketball season, as far a I could see, everything inside the lines was as normal as it could be.

Credit first goes to the coaches and parents for keeping their players and kids focused. I did not see any drop in intensity over the final days of the season, despite seniors having graduated, and hosted and attended grad parties. Their only link left to their school colors was on the basketball floor.

Most of all, credit to those seniors, and every player on every school’s roster, at every level of play. The made the best of an impossible situation and remained committed.

Welcome, Graduates!
Jun 13, 2021 11:49 AM

It’s the final week, or “finals week.” As of this writing, 12 of the current 15 teams in the Northwest Conference will have “grad students” on their respective basketball floors this week. Two of the remaining three will have graduation ceremonies during the week.

Also, just in case they throw a last-minute state tournament together in Yakima, there is ZERO chance of snow on Snoqualmie Pass. I’d like to see January, or even February or March do that!

It's All About Rebounding
Jun 6, 2021 10:58 AM

Much of basketball is about rebounding. Coaches frequently talk about its importance. Being effective at team rebounding means extra possessions on offense, which could mean a better chance for that big win.

Off the subject for a moment, there is something else that is noticeable in Juneuary basketball that you do not see in January basketball. The answer will be at the end. See if you can think what it is along the way.

Free Throw Shooting 101 From a Self-Proclaimed Expert
May 30, 2021 10:58 AM

I mentioned last week that it was impressive to watch teams play as hard as they are with no end result to the 2021 season. The sense of urgency has been on display on every basketball floor. That deserves a “Job Well Done” to all players and coaches from the C-Teams, on up.

Offenses are in gear now. Defenses can be stingy. Three-pointers are flowing. But there is one part of their game that, maybe, has not come on strong yet. And, for good reason. That would be free-throw shooting!

Different Start to the Season; Different Start to the Game
May 23, 2021 11:23 AM

Have you ever gone to a game and been busy talking, or paying attention to something else, then look up and say, “Hey, I missed the jump ball!” Well, now, at least for this season, you may have to say, “Hey, I missed the sideline-inbounds!”

Welcome to Basketball Season; Courts are in Session
May 16, 2021 3:02 PM

Yes, basketball courts are finally in session in Whatcom and Skagit Counties, which encompass the Northwest Conference. Instead of splitting the season at New Year’s, this basketball season will end the school year. It’s a little off, but it’s here.

Over And Back, 2020
Mar 14, 2020 3:41 PM

March 14, 2020

Well, I guess it’s just you and me!

In the wake of the cancellation of much of the spring sport season, and the next six weeks of the school year, I offer you this rehash of the 2020 1A/2A State Basketball Tournament. Which, by the way, we eked out by just a few days.

The compilation of my season stats goes like this: 79 games seen; 36 straight state tournaments attended; and my second straight trip to Yakima without a hospital stay.

Boys Basketball 2019-20 All Conference Teams
Mar 10, 2020 1:18 PM

The 2019-20 boys All Northwest Conference teams have been released.

The NWC Most Valuable Player is senior, Alex Jensen, from Lakewood.

The Coach of the Year is Anthony Wiederkehr, also of Lakewood. The Cougars made their first ever state tournament appearance, this season.

For the complete list of first and second teams, please see the attachment below.

Post Attachments2019-20 All NWC Boys Basketball
Kings Takes 1A Title In Overtime Over Lynden Christian
Mar 7, 2020 10:11 PM

March 7, 2020

YAKIMA -- The Lynden Christian Lyncs were denied their seventh state title by the Kings Knights, suffering a 70-67, overtime loss, Saturday evening, in the Yakma SunDome. The Lyncs finished with a record of 22-6. The Knights had a 19-10 record, and won their fifth state title.

Lynden Recovers to Claim 3rd Place
Mar 7, 2020 4:27 PM

March 7, 2020

YAKIMA -- The most difficult of all games to play, is the one for third place. Both teams are coming off of a heartbreaking loss in the semifinals, along with it being a very short turnaround. While the Lynden Lions have had much success over the decades, they have also been very successful in this particular game.

The Lions defeated the Lindbergh Eagles, 72-58, making it their fourth straight win in the third place game, since 2012. It’s also the Lions eighth top three finish in the last nine seasons.

North Kitsap Comeback Denies Lions 3-Peat Opportunity
Mar 7, 2020 10:56 AM

March 7, 2020

YAKIMA -- You never really know.

After back to back state championships and the loss of ten seniors, there were a lot of unknowns about this year’s Lynden Lions. But, though they lacked experience, they again found themselves on the brink of playing for a third consecutive state title.

Lyncs Defeat La Salle; Going For 7th State Title
Mar 7, 2020 10:34 AM

March 7, 2020

YAKIMA -- You never really know.

It seemed like last year, would be the year. The Lynden Christian Lyncs were stocked with experience and talent, not to mention a Division 1 recruit, Cole Bajema. They won their first 24 games, before being knocked aside by the Kings Knights in the state quarterfinals. The Lyncs rebounded to finish with the fourth place trophy.

Trojans Season Ends with Loss to Cashmere
Mar 6, 2020 3:44 PM

March 6, 2020

YAKIMA – The season for the Meridian Trojans did not end with a win, or a state trophy, but it was highly successful, none the less. A 20-10 record and a top eight finish in the state, speaks to that.

Lynden Towers over Toppenish, Advances to Semi's
Mar 5, 2020 7:59 PM

March 5, 2020

YAKIMA – New roster. Same uniforms. Same results.

The Lynden Lions, the top seed in the 2A state tournament, earned a spot in the state semifinals with a 73-55 win over the #2 seed, Toppenish Wildcats. This will be the ninth semifinal appearance for the Lions in the last eleven years.

Lyncs Get Quarterfinal Win Over Meridian
Mar 5, 2020 3:21 PM

March 5, 2020

YAKIMA – The Lynden Christian Lyncs advanced to the 1A state semifinals, with a 62-53 win over NWC rival, Meridian, Thursday, in the Yakima SunDome. The Lyncs will play La Salle, who was a winner over Cashmere in another quarterfinal game.

The Lyncs defeated the Trojans in the 19th game of the season. Early on in this match up, the Trojans set the tone over the first 12 minutes.

Cougars Season Ends in Yakima
Mar 4, 2020 9:15 PM

March 4, 2020

YAKIMA -- The Lakewood Cougars’ storied season came to an end in the opening round of the 2020 2A state tournament. The Cougars fell to the Lindbergh Eagles, 68-57, ending their season with a record of 15-10.

Trojans Advance to Quarterfinals
Mar 4, 2020 9:15 PM

Mar 4, 2020

YAKIMA -- The Meridian Trojans used a strong second half to put away the Bellevue Christian Vikings, 61-49, in the first round of the 1A boys State Basketball Tournament. It was the first state tournament win for the Trojan program since the 2010 state semifinals.

NWC Teams Muscle Through Regionals
Mar 1, 2020 2:17 PM

3-1-2020

May we have a round of applause for the Northwest Conference, please?

The boys and girls teams combined for an 8-1 record in regional play over the weekend, and did not lose a team. In fact, wait, being told that the same 8-1 record happened in 2019, so I guess it’s just business as usual, as the nine head to state tournaments in Yakima this week.

NWC Weekend Regional Schedule and Game Previews
Feb 25, 2020 9:52 PM

2-26-2020

After two hard weeks of district tournament basketball, the seas have calmed before the next storm. That is headed our way this Friday and Saturday, in the form of regional basketball, or the state tournament round of 16, if you prefer.

Seeding Day, 2020
Feb 23, 2020 12:48 PM

2-23-20

It’s that moment in time when the past two weeks have been a blur. You stop to catch your breath, knowing you have achieved that coveted next level. But take a side trip to Amazon.com to see how to replace your “refresh” key that you wore out as you await your team’s fate. You just want to see your team’s name on one of those 16 lines.

(If the WIAA has not posted the regional matchups, a couple thousand words from now, I will give you what I know at the end).

Two Seniors Carry the Load in Tuesday District Action
Feb 19, 2020 7:30 PM

2-19-2020

The Lynden Lions and the Lakewood Cougars have many differences in their basketball programs. But the one thing they do have in common is, they will occupy two of the three allocations to the Regional round of the 2A classification’s state tournament.

In Tuesday night’s semifinals in the Mt. Vernon High School gym, the #2 seed Lions overcame a 12 point second quarter deficit, and advanced to the district championship game by beating #3 Mountlake Terrace, 58-49.

Field Narrows as District Tournaments Continue
Feb 16, 2020 6:13 PM

2-16-20

The 1A district tournament marathon has reached the half way point. Meanwhile, the 2A and 3A district tournaments are now in full swing, with regional spots up for grabs this week in all classifications.

Thirteen Northwest Conference boys basketball teams qualified for the post-season, and nine remain. Two were KO’d by their own league, as Blaine eliminated Sehome, and Anacortes did the same to Sedro-Woolley.

Tigers Beat Lions for NWC Title
Feb 9, 2020 1:30 PM

2-9-2020

The Burlington-Edison Tigers completed a perfect Northwest Conference schedule, with a 58-49 home win over the Lynden Lions, on Saturday night. It was the first outright NWC title for the Tigers, who will carry a 19-1 record, and a 12 game winning streak into next week’s District Tournament.

Post-Season is Upon Us; Lions & Tigers Finally Get Together
Feb 8, 2020 9:39 AM

2-8-2020

And, just like that, it’s time for the post-season! In a matter of seconds, Mt. Baker tips off the 1A District tournament with a play in game at Coupeville. Saturday night’s winner will advance to take on the Kings Knights on Monday.

As the 1A’s begin their first of two district tournaments, there is still some business to take care of with a few 2A and 3A teams. Last week’s rains forced postponement of the Anacortes-Ferndale game. That will be made up on Monday night in Ferndale. Both teams are still jockeying for RPI position in their respective district classifications.

There’s also one other game with just a few post-season implications attached to it.

Groundhog Says, "Five More Weeks"
Feb 3, 2020 6:58 PM

February 2, 2020

It’s Groundhog Day, and we all know what that means. Of course, it means five more weeks of high school basketball, whether he saw his shadow, or not. And, if those next five weeks are as entertaining as the last one, you won’t want to miss a minute.

Teams Play Schedule Catch Up, Prep for Big Finish
Jan 26, 2020 3:01 PM

Jan. 26, 2020

Catch Up Week #1 is complete, and a very busy Lynden Christian team went 4-0. In Catch Up Week #2, Lynden and Meridian will be on the court four times.

Snow Puts Season on Hold
Jan 19, 2020 6:40 AM

January 20, 2020

Last year, a snow storm in early February hit Western Washington and halted, squeezed, and cancelled district basketball tournaments. This year, it hit a few weeks earlier (if that’s the only one), and caused the postponement of 28 of 36 scheduled boys and girls games.

With the lack of action, I thought maybe use a "Best Of," this week. Hey, it worked for Johnny Carson.

The 80's Make a Comeback
Jan 12, 2020 3:31 PM

This may be a bit of a stretch, but we seem to be living the 80’s again. Not the big hair, punk rock, and preppies, but all the teams scoring in the 80’s recently.

It started on Monday, when Lakewood edged Blaine, 83-80, and Lynden Christian beat Ferndale, 89-81. Six teams scored 80 or more points in a game this week. Another four scored over 75. Lynden hit 97 this week, while Blaine (95) and Lakewood (90) kept scoreboard operators busy earlier in the season.

Curing Post Holiday Blemishes
Jan 5, 2020 1:20 PM

During my early season bye week, it’s my job to update the schedules of the thousands of high school basketball teams from our state that participate in holiday tournaments. That’s right, I said, “Thousands.”

It was brought up to me recently, and I’ve thought about this before: since the WIAA “State” Basketball RPI was put into play a few years ago, are there fewer teams traveling out of state? The issue would be that against teams from out of state, they are all categorized as having a .”500” record for RPI purposes.

Four Undefeateds After 1st Week of League Action
Dec 22, 2019 1:34 PM

Four Northwest Conference boys basketball teams made it through the first week of league play with perfect 2-0 records. Burlington-Edison, Ferndale, Lynden and Sehome will stay that way for a while, as the league now takes its Christmas Break, and teams will head for many different holiday events.

Big Games Coming in Week 1 of Conference Play
Dec 18, 2019 7:24 AM

Week two of Northwest Conference basketball action seemed more like week eleven of the Southeastern Conference football schedule. There were lots of mismatches lopsided scores. In the end, as we transition into a week of league games before Christmas Break, Blaine, Burlington-Edison and Nooksack Valley all own perfect 4-0 records.

Northwest Conference Basketball Returns
Dec 9, 2019 9:15 PM

Every season, teams make some sort of transition due to player change-over. Seniors graduate, and underclassmen move up. This happens to every team, in every classification, and in every league around the state.

No league responds better to those yearly roster transitions than those in the Northwest Conference. It doesn’t seem to matter who comes and goes, the results remain the same.

Over & Back - 2019 Edition
Mar 10, 2019 11:54 AM

By Ted House

After “State Tournaments Past,” it’s been easy to show the dominance set forth by the Northwest Conference, when it comes to playing for the coveted Gold Ball. It was never easier to do than March of 2018, when the NWC came away with three of the four championship trophies (with the fourth having been achieved the year prior).

2018-19 All Northwest Conference Boys Basketball Teams
Mar 5, 2019 8:05 PM

The 2018-19 All Northwest Conference Boys Basketball teams are led by Most Valuable Player, Colson Bajema, senior, from Lynden Christian.

The Coach of The Year award goes to Brett Senff of Anacortes.

For the complete first and second teams, please see the attachment below.

Post Attachments2018-19 All Northwest Conference Boys Basketball
Lions Defeat Selah for 10th State Title
Mar 3, 2019 1:05 AM

By Ted House

The Lynden Lions defeated the Selah Vikings, 60-51, for the 2A State Championship, Saturday, March 3, in the Yakima SunDome. It was the tenth state championship for the storied Lions program. And in doing so, became the third group of Lions to win back-to-back state championships.

Lyncs Hammer Vikings, Take Home 4th Place
Mar 2, 2019 11:50 AM

By Ted House

It was business as usual for the Lynden Christian Lyncs, as they wrapped up fourth place in the 1A Boys State Tournament with a 78-48 pounding of Bellevue Christian, Saturday, in the Yakima SunDome.

Lynden Defeats Pullman, Aims for Second Straight Title
Mar 1, 2019 5:43 PM

By Ted House

The Lynden Lions defeated the Pullman Greyhounds, 52-40, in a state semifinal game, Friday, at the Yakima SunDome. The Lions will compete for their second consecutive, and 10th overall state title, Saturday night at 9pm. They will play the winner of the semifinal game between Renton and Selah.

Lyncs Regroup Quickly, Crush Seattle Academy
Mar 1, 2019 3:05 PM

By Ted House

Responding to a tough loss can be difficult. Responding to a state tournament loss can be even more so. Responding to a state tournament loss in less than 17 hours? That sounds impossible. However, the Lynden Christian Lyncs showed that youth can indeed turn the page quicker than the rest of us.

Not that they had a lot of choice, but the Seattle Academy Cardinals picked the wrong day to play the Lynden Christian Lyncs. Though the teams had played competitive games twice this season, neither the Cardinals, nor anyone else, had seen the Lyncs after a loss. Now they have, as the Lyncs crushed the Cardinals, 75-39.

Lyncs Upset by Kings in State Quarterfinal
Feb 28, 2019 10:29 PM

By Ted House

The Kings Knights, spearheaded by the performances of two freshmen, dominated the Lynden Christian Lyncs, 73-50, Thursday night in a state quarterfinal game in the Yakima SunDome. The Knights will play Kings Way Christian, Friday in one semifinal, while the Lyncs will take on Seattle Academy, in a loser out contest, also on Friday.

#1-Lynden over #2-Columbia River in State Quarterfinals
Feb 28, 2019 3:45 PM

By Ted House

The Lynden Lions began defense of their 2A championship, by defeating the Columbia River Chieftains, 52-40, in a state quarterfinal game, Thursday, at the Yakima SunDome.

Seahawks & Tigers Eliminated on Day 1
Feb 27, 2019 3:09 PM

By Ted House

The Anacortes Seahawks and the Burlington Edison Tigers each saw their seasons come to an end in the first round of the 2019 Hardwood Classic, in the Yakima SunDome. The Seahawks lost to the Columbia River Chieftains, 49-37, while the Tigers were eliminated by the Renton Indians, 57-52.

REGIONAL RECAP: Everyone Advances
Feb 24, 2019 1:32 PM

By Ted House

The Mt. Vernon High School gym, again, proved to be a home away from home for local Northwest Conference teams. The NWC went a perfect 6-0 in The Palace on Friday and Saturday, and in all, will send nine teams to Yakima for next week’s 1A and 2A boys and girls state tournaments.

From a Marathon to a Sprint
Feb 17, 2019 6:04 PM

By Ted House

After having no games over many days, suddenly, there were many games in very few days. The question for all was, who would be able to best use their time off?

I don’t think anyone went on a Hawaiian vacation (teams that is). It seems as though everyone came through the snow induced layoff just fine. The only thing left to do would be to negotiate the condensed tournament schedules.

The Week That Wasn't
Feb 10, 2019 2:08 PM

The Week That Wasn’t

By Ted House

It seems that local athletic directors perspired more than the athletes this week. Because of the early week weather problems, all of our respective district tournaments had to be postponed. That meant a lot of work by AD’s to get things lined up again. You can bet that they now have back-up plans, for their back-up plans.

Winter & the Post-Season Arrive Together
Feb 3, 2019 12:58 PM

By Ted House

The first sign of winter snow accompanied by its long time companion, the Nor’easter, has finally hit. But we can’t deal with either of you right now, as it’s time for post-season basketball. And brackets don’t hold up well in the snow (see 2017). Plus the fact that I still need solid traction under my feet.

Lyncs Prevail in “The Game of The Year”
Jan 27, 2019 3:44 PM

By Ted House

In what was labeled as “The Game of The Year” in the state of Washington, the Lynden Christian Lyncs soundly defeated their cross-town rival, Lynden Lions, 75-57, Friday night at Jake Maberry Gymnasium.

The crowd, which just may be the largest ever to watch a high school basketball game in Whatcom County, was about 50 people deep when the doors opened at 3:15pm. The 3,000 plus jammed the two mammoth grandstands at The Jake, even filling aisles, hallways, and doorways.

Nothing Left to do But Play It
Jan 23, 2019 9:18 PM

By Ted House

It was March 3, 2018. The boys court at the north end of the Yakima SunDome was done for the year. The Lynden boys team had secured their programs ninth state title, with a win over WF West. And the Lynden Christian Lyncs had just won their sixth state championship, with a resounding win over Freeman.

Many Questions Remain in the NWC
Jan 20, 2019 3:00 PM

By Ted House

With two weeks left in the regular season, there are several races that will be settled over the final four games. Who will emerge as the second and third seeds to the 1A District Tournament? Who will get the four first round bye’s to the 2A District Tournament? Will Ferndale hang on to a top ten District seed, and will Squalicum be able to fight their way back into contention? Oh, and that little issue concerning the Northwest Conference title is still up in the air.

We're All Just Day to Day
Jan 13, 2019 5:29 PM

By Ted House

Due to a recent mishap, I was forced to spend some time on the Disabled List. Or, the Physically Unable to Perform List, if you prefer. Either way, not an enviable position.

Earlier this week I was having normal correspondence with AD’s and tournament directors concerning post-season basketball. I was also letting them know that my recent injury to my right arm may slow me down because I don’t go very well to my left.

Feats of Strength by the NWC
Dec 23, 2018 4:32 PM

By Ted House

As Festivus rolls on, we come to the feats of strength.

After a slow start, the Northwest Conference has been flexing its muscles lately against out of conference opponents. The NWC currently holds a 37-14 record against the OOC’s. I don’t know if that’s any better than the conference usually does. But, I do know, it’s really good!

NWC Coaches Lead the Way
Dec 9, 2018 3:05 PM

By Ted House

There wasn’t a lot of intrigue in Northwest Conference action over the past week, but NWC teams did combine to go 15-2 against out-of-conference opponents.

None of the four games I saw this week were nail-biters, but there was high interest, none the less.

2018 Associated Press All-State Basketball Teams
Nov 22, 2018 11:04 AM

by Ted House

The 2017-18 was an amazing year for basketball teams in the Northwest Conference, as three earned state championships. It’s now time to recognize some of the amazing individuals who made up, not only those teams, but several other highly competitive programs, that belong to the best league in the state.

Post Attachments2018 Associated Press All-State Basketball Teams
2017-18 All NWC Boys Basketball Teams
Mar 5, 2018 10:29 PM

The 2017-18 All Northwest Conference Boys Basketball teams have been released.

Colson Bajema, junior, from 1A State Champion Lynden Christian, is this year's Most Valuable Player.

Coach of the Year in the NWC is Ferndale's Jason Owens.

For the complete first and second teams, please see the link below.

Post Attachments2017-18 All NWC Boys Basketball Teams
One Town, Three Titles
Mar 5, 2018 9:30 PM

by Ted House

It was quite a week for the Northwest Conference. It was quite a week for the greater “98264.” It was quite a week for Lynden and Lynden Christian boys and girls basketball programs.

Specifically, they Lynden boys, the Lynden Christian boys, and the Lynden Christian girls basketball programs all won their respective State Tournament titles, in the Yakima SunDome, Saturday, March 4, 2018.

2016-17 ALL NWC BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM
Jul 9, 2017 11:18 AM

Squalicum Senior Damek Mitchell was named as the Most Valuable Player of the Northwest Conference, by league coaches.

Bellingham’s Brad McKay was named the Coach of the Year.

For complete first and second teams, please see the attachment below.

Post Attachments2016-17 ALL NWC BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM