The John Marshall High School basketball teams showcased their talents in the recent Virginia High School League (VHSL) state championship games, held at the Siegel Center over the weekend of March 15-16, 2025. While the boys’ team celebrated a triumphant victory, the girls’ counterpart faced a formidable opponent.
In a thrilling contest on March 13, the John Marshall boys' basketball team clinched the Class 2 state championship with an impressive 107-81 win against Graham. This commanding victory highlighted the Justices' offensive prowess, marked by standout performances from several players, solidifying their legacy as the top team in Class 2. Throughout the game, they demonstrated unparalleled teamwork and skill, which ultimately led to a remarkable season ending in glory.
Conversely, the John Marshall Lady Justices played valiantly but fell short to Central-Wise, losing the Class 2 state final 75-45. Despite their best efforts and a strong performance throughout the season, they couldn’t overcome the offensive strategy and defensive strength exhibited by Central-Wise. Their journey to the finals at this year’s championship was commendable and showcased their resilience and determination.
Adding to the season's dynamics, on March 20, 2025, John Marshall faced off against Moorhead in the state Class 4A boys basketball fifth-place game. Unfortunately for the Justices, they ended their season with a narrow defeat by a score of 76-73.
The game at Concordia University St. Paul’s Gangelhoff Center marked a historic moment as it was the first time John Marshall qualified for the state tournament since 2003, finishing the season with a commendable overall record of 26-6. During this match against the No. 7 seed Moorhead, they managed to build a 44-33 halftime lead but could not maintain their momentum as Moorhead slowly chipped away at their advantage. The Justices had been impressive in their scoring, hitting 64% of their shots from the field, including a remarkable 60% from beyond the arc.
Eli Ladu was a standout player for John Marshall, scoring 22 points and connecting on 2 of 2 three-point attempts, while Brayson Sawyer also contributed significantly with 21 points, showcasing their shooting accuracy and strategic teamwork. Denard Simpson added 13 points and grabbed eight rebounds, while Joe Lueth contributed seven points and five boards, indicating a strong performance from the team.
However, Moorhead’s senior point guard Brian Zarazua Jr. proved instrumental in his team’s victory, amassing 25 points, alongside five steals and five rebounds. The balance and distribution of talent on the Moorhead roster was evident, as Reign Battle added 17 points and Jett Feeney had 16 more, ensuring that the Justices had their hands full throughout the competition.
The turning point for Moorhead came from their effectiveness at the free-throw line, where they outscored John Marshall 18-11, and their ability to limit turnovers—only committing nine compared to John Marshall’s 20. This strategic edge further aided their efforts and ultimately secured their victory.
Reflecting on the season, John Marshall's journey has been one of growth and perseverance, culminating in their first state tournament appearance in nearly two decades. With strong senior leadership and emerging talents, the team and its fans are optimistic about future seasons.
In summary, the John Marshall basketball teams have made an indelible mark on their respective state championship runs this year. From the boys' celebrated victory to the girls' determined fight, each team demonstrated not only skill but an unwavering spirit that instills pride within their community.
