Bulldog rally at state falls short, 54-52

The Virgin Valley High School boys basketball team ran out of time against the top-seeded Vaqueros from Fernley High School, losing 54-52 on Friday, Feb. 20. The Bulldogs not only faced a great team, but they also had to contend with a large, vocal, home fanbase. The Dawgs gave their all, leading 16-13 after one period of play. Malachi Davis had the hot hand early for the Dawgs, scoring 10 points in the first period. Drew Dixon added two three-balls in the period. The Dawgs only scored eight points in the second period but still led the Vaqueros 24-23 after one half of play.

The Bulldog offense sputtered in the third period as they only managed 11 points to Fernley’s 21, and the Vaqueros took a 44-35 lead into the final quarter. Center Jayden Healy had four points to lead the Dawgs. Dixon led a charging Bulldog offense back into the game, stifling the Vaqueros’ offense. The Dawgs’ pressing defense forced errors by the Vaqueros, cutting the lead to 48-43. The Dawgs called a timeout late to regroup after a Dixon free throw made the score 48-44 in favor of the home team.

The Vaqueros hit two free throws before Corban Waite hit a big three-ball, cutting the lead to 50-47. After two points by Fernley, Dixon hit for two, but the Dawgs still trailed 52-49. Fernley hit a 2-point shot, extending their lead to 54-49 with less than a minute in the game. Dixon then hit another three-ball, cutting the Vaqueros’ advantage to 54-52. The Bulldogs had two opportunities late but could not hit the winning shot. The game ended with the final score 54-52, ending the Dawgs’ hope for a championship. Dixon led the Dawgs with 20 points, followed by 12 points from Davis and 10 points from Waite.

“I am grateful and proud of this team,” said Coach Ty Wakefield. “This team will be remembered for their dedicated grit and attitude. I am sad we lost, satisfied for the season we had. I must also thank the fans who traveled and cheered with us. We played in a hostile home environment for state, and the Virgin Valley faithful showed up.”

The Dawgs finished the season 20-6.