Guyer claims its first-ever state championship with their 48-47 win over Katy Jordan
“It’s a surreal moment,” said head coach Grant Long. “A lot of the guys who’ve come through this program have built up the tradition that it consists of. We just had a special group this year who were finally able to see the goal through.”
The Wildcats had a firm grip on the championship late in the 4th quarter, following a clutch 3-point jumper made by junior Silas Rodriguez, with only 29 seconds remaining.
Following a botched attempt of a buzzer-beater – thanks to an exceptional defensive effort – Guyer was then crowned the UIL 5A-D2 champions, with Rodriguez being named the State MVP for his considerable efforts (20 points, 3 rebounds).
Junior Silas Rodriguez accepts the UIL 6A-DII State MVP AwardMatthew Ogle (VYPE)
“There really weren’t too many words going through my head in that instance,” he said. “I’ve wanted to win a state championship all year and that was the only goal I had at that moment. Once I saw the ball go through the net, I was thanking God and was overcome with emotion. I couldn’t have dreamed of a better scenario.”
Coach Long was quick to add on to that sentiment.
“He (Rodriguez) has dreamed about it because he’s in the gym every single day,” Long said. “He’s called me up on more than one occasion to open the gym up so he can get to work. When he hit that shot, it wasn’t by accident. He’s not only a phenomenal athlete; he’s a great student. He perfectly exemplifies the level of dedication we demand here.”
Rodriguez wasn’t the only one who had his mind fixed on taking gold this year.
After playing his first two seasons with Guyer, point guard Jordan Lowery transferred to Winston Salem Christian School (North Carolina), before making his way back to the Denton school for his senior year.
Prior to this season, he posted "Unfinished Business” on his Twitter account, with the intention of carrying out exactly what just transpired.
Guyer Senior Jordan Lowery embraces Silas Rodriguez, following the announcement of the State's MVP AwardMatthew Ogle (VYPE)
“I came back to my family,” said Lowery. “I knew we had the necessary guys to do what it takes to win, and that’s what happened. Was it worth it? Of course it was. I had a journal before the season started saying that we’d win a championship, and it meant everything to see that play out.”
The Wildcats now make the trek home with a monumental prize in tow: one that coach Long knows his athletes will cherish for years to come.
“This is something that will never go away,” Long said. “25 years from now, we’re still going to be celebrating this, and what makes me feel grateful is the fact that this team won’t forget each other. I’m still in close contact with most of my former high school teammates, so I hope they do the same for the rest of their lives.”
The celebrations are only just beginning in the 76210 area code, and a new precedent has been established for the Guyer basketball program. Considering how proficient the Dallas-area has been in the sport, this could be just the beginning of a new dynasty.
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