Rock Canyon High School’s boys basketball team won its first-ever state championship on March 14, defeating Ralston Valley 68-58 in the Class 6A final at the Denver Coliseum.
The victory marks a significant milestone for Rock Canyon, which had never before claimed a boys basketball state title. The Jaguars’ win came after a season of intense practices and strong teamwork, according to head coach Kent Grams.
“This group is so special and they hold each other accountable,” said Grams, who celebrated his first state championship after 14 years as head coach. “Our practices are so intense and I’ve never seen the competitiveness that we have. I have to calm people down all the time and let them know we are teammates and we can’t hurt each other. But we all made each other better. Everybody deserves this so much.”
The game saw Rock Canyon build a double-digit lead in the third quarter, only for Ralston Valley to rally back in the fourth. Junior Jacob David scored seven consecutive points during crunch time to secure the win for Rock Canyon. David finished with 16 points, while junior Cooper Elwood led the team with 19 points. Senior Kai Valentine contributed 15 points, including key baskets late in the game.
“My teammates were telling me to go get the ball and I got it and made a play with it,” said David. “My teammates having confidence in me really helps. …We’ve been down a lot, but we always crawl our way back. We have people who will everything because they just want to win. It feels amazing to get one.
“We were due.”
Elwood also reflected on what the victory meant for him and his teammates: “It’s unbelievable, I couldn’t be happier,” he said. “Every single one of these coaches wanted it as bad as we did. I love every single coach and I love every single player here. To get a banner to put up in the gym is unreal.”
Ralston Valley was led by senior Zeke Andrews with 21 points and senior Frank Psaute with 17 points but could not overcome Rock Canyon’s late surge.
Added Grams: “In a couple of days I will get to reflect on it all and understand why. There are some unique things about this group and I want to make sure I remember them.”
The win concludes Rock Canyon’s season at 24-3, while Ralston Valley finishes at 26-2.
