The Marin Catholic boys basketball team claimed a decisive 66-53 victory over Redwood in the Marin County Athletic League (MCAL) semifinals held on February 11, 2026, in Kentfield, California. This win not only avenged a previous loss to their arch-rivals but also secured Marin Catholic a place in the MCAL championship game against Branson on February 13, 2026.
The Wildcats, boasting a record of 22 wins and 3 losses, entered the game with a strong determination to overcome their earlier setback against Redwood, which had been their only defeat in league play. Guard Oliver Myers led the Wildcats in scoring with 19 points, showcasing an impressive performance that included going 11-for-11 at the free-throw line.
As the game progressed, tensions escalated, particularly for Redwood. In a pivotal moment late in the third quarter, Redwood head coach Jay DeMaestri received two technical fouls, resulting in his ejection from the game. This incident not only disrupted Redwood’s momentum but also gifted Marin Catholic four free throws, extending their lead to 45-38. Myers remarked on the impact of the ejection, stating, “The crowd went crazy, and we just kind of fed off of that.”
Marin Catholic struggled initially, finding themselves down 15-12 at the end of the first quarter. Redwood’s aggressive play and strong defensive strategy kept the Wildcats on their toes. Coach Kevin Vasquez noted that Redwood’s physicality was reminiscent of their first meeting, which they had lost. However, the Wildcats managed to turn the tide just before halftime, taking their first lead with two free throws from Myers followed by a layup, ending the half at 27-26.
In the second half, Marin Catholic capitalized on their free-throw opportunities, converting 21 of 28 shots from the line. Despite Redwood’s attempts to stay competitive, including a valiant effort from Harrington White who led his team with 16 points, the Giants could not regain their footing.
The Wildcats’ depth played a critical role in their victory, with Micah Pierce emerging as an unsung hero. Coming off the bench, Pierce contributed significantly with four steals, three offensive rebounds, and ten points, culminating in a powerful dunk that sealed the game in the final seconds.
Other contributors included Lucas Rotem, who added seven points from the free-throw line, and Bentley Morrow, who recorded eight points and six rebounds. The teamwork and resilience displayed by the Wildcats highlighted their strong season and readiness to compete for the MCAL title.
Marin Catholic’s victory not only reflects their growth as a team but also sets the stage for an exciting championship matchup against Branson. The championship game is scheduled for 19:00 at the Redwood gym, where the Wildcats will aim to continue their successful run in the league.
