SOLANO – Thursday night saw the Solano College Varsity Basketball teams take on the Mariners, hailing from the College of Marin, in a thrilling game that was decided deep into overtime.
As the designated final game of the conference season, Solano honored one last Blue Out Night, encouraging those attending to dress in royal blue, and recognized second year student athletes and their families during Sophomore Night.
The men’s basketball team also gave special recognition to sophomore point guard Justiz Wilson, who reached 1000 career points in the game prior. Wilson landed an incredible 54 points on Thursday night to help Solano beat Marin 111-107.
Coming off the back of a recent slump in fitness that resulted in a seven game losing streak, Solano managed to bounce back and end the season on a high note with the team putting in a performance full of resilience and endurance.
With a packed house and a crowd full of energy ready to back the Falcons, Wilson broke the ice for Solano, dropping a three pointer for his first bucket of the night. Solano spent the first quarter heating up, eventually ending the first half with Marin trailing 46-41.
In the second half, Solano began to pull away, with good ball movement, but after continuous turnovers, Marin kept finding a way back. With the second half coming to a close, a foul allowed Marin to tie the game 91-91. With 5 seconds on the clock, Solano tried to decide the game with a deep three pointer, narrowly missing their chance, driving the game into overtime.
Both teams did well to keep pace with one another, rotating players to keep fresh legs on the court, providing a finish that came right down to the wire.
With only seconds remaining, Freshman Nicko Ignacio shot two from the free throw line, after which Solano put up great defense to finish 111-107 with celebrations erupting.
After the game, when asked what went right on the night, Sophomore D’Angelo Chatman responded with two words: “Justiz Wilson” and a smile that lit up the room.
Gelo went on to comment on the team’s overall season, “We did the best we could. Despite key injuries, we gave it our all and next year’s group will come back stronger and healthy.”
Speaking on what Chatman looks forward to next season, he gave a special shout out to Freshman Nicko Ignacio saying “Nicko’s next up! Get ready, he’s coming!”
“What I like about Solano is we’re one big family. Win or lose, at the end of the day we put it behind us and focus on moving forward together. Solano’s great, our coaches are great, and the future looks great!” concluded Chatman.
The night wouldn’t have been over without catching up with arguably the season’s MVP, and definitely Thursday’s all-star, sophomore, Justiz Wilson.
“Our energy tonight was the best we’ve had all year and that’s because we were motivated by Sophomore Night. Everyone was moving the ball, energy was high, and shots just fell” said Wilson after the game.
He added, “We’ve had our ups and downs all season, but I’m glad I’m in the situation that I’m in. My season came down to being pushed to my physical limits every game, I’m proud of myself for enduring that even when things didn’t go my way. It shows mental fortitude and it’s getting me ready for the next level.”
With his mind already looking forward to next season, Justiz spoke about spending the summer making official visits to different Division 2 and Division 1 schools hoping to find a home where he can further his game.
“Solano means a lot to me. I don’t think I’d be here, with you interviewing me, if it wasn’t for the opportunities Solano’s given me. A lot of people don’t know this but coming out of high school, I was being recruited by some D2 schools but they fell through. Nobody recruited me so I basically just fell into Solano. I’m just glad God put me on this path and put the right people in my life. My family pushed me to be where I am. I’m blessed” ended Wilson before going on to celebrate with his loved ones.
It was a successful night, full of drama and suspense that filled the gymnasium in an uproar as they cheered their Solano Falcons until the final whistle. While their season may be over, the future looks bright for the team and we hope to see more spirited celebrations as the year goes by.
For full match stats and highlights visit Solano Athletics
