It was really sad to see the sports season come to an end and I feel for everyone who was impacted. To the seniors: whether you're going to play at the next level or want to pursue other endeavors, I want to wish you the best of luck and continue to stay strong and resilient. 

Last time, I took a stroll down memory lane of barnburner games from previous years. Here are some games I did from this past school year with dramatic finishes.

 

Football
Motas, Moanalua boot No. 8 Iolani - Aug 10, 2019

Griffin Motas helped Na Menehune earn their first win over the Raiders with a 27-yard walk-off field goal for the win. RJ Javar made his debut in this game and would lead Division I overall in passing. Both teams met again in the state semifinals, but Iolani got its revenge.

 

Football
Kaimuki rebounds to hand Roosevelt first loss - Sept. 20, 2019

After losing to Kaiser the previous week, the Bulldogs defeated the Rough Riders as both teams were keeping pace with the Cougars in Division II. Koby Moananu got it done on both ends of the field and had the game-sealing pick for the win.

 

Football
Warriors rally to stun Govs with late TD - Sept. 21, 2019

After covering Kaimuki/Roosevelt the night before, I was treated to another thrilling game at Edward 'Skippa' Diaz Stadium. The battle of two Kalihi rivals ended in dramatic fashion when Kiai Keone threw the game-winning touchdown to Kalanikuikahi Lorenzo as the Warriors came from behind to stun the Governors.

 

Football
Kahuku rallies by Mililani for Open title - Oct. 26, 2019

For three and a half quarters, I was wondering, 'Is someone going to score?' Mililani broke through with a field goal, but Kelysn Tangaro-Kanoa returned the ensuing kick off for a 93-yard touchdown. The Red Raiders held it down on defense and offense to preserve the win for the OIA title to cap a great turnaround.

 

Girls basketball
Christian Academy rallies in fourth to top St. Andrew's - Jan. 16, 2020

We have to show Division III some love. The Patriots trailed pretty much the entire game and went on an 11-0 run in the fourth quarter. Hooliieasu Baptiste scored 14 points and blocked a potential game-tying shot.

 

Boys basketball
Robben lifts Maryknoll past Damien for state berth - Jan. 31, 2020

Nothing comes easy playing in the ILH as the Spartans clinched a state tournament berth after holding off a fourth quarter comeback from the Monarchs. Niko Robben came in clutch scoring a game-high 20 points and had the final free throws to end a game with a lot of emotions.

 

Boys basketball
Cheng's putback lifts Kahuku into OIA title game - Feb. 10, 2020

I was treated to an exciting finish on my birthday as Oscar Cheng was at the right place at the right time to send the Red Raiders to the OIA Division I title game. The Mules found themselves down by double digits, but their perimeter shooting and uptempo style of play brought them back. 

 

Boys basketball
No. 2 Maryknoll outlasts No. 7 Kalaheo in OT to advance - Feb. 17, 2020

The Mustangs pushed the defending state champions to the brink and had a chance to win it in regulation. The Spartans were able to pull away in the overtime period to advance and eventually win their second-consecutive title.