Paly Boys Varsity Basketball Vs. Wood

Paly Boys Varsity Basketball Vs. Wood The Paly Voice

Senior Ryan Purpur reaches for the ball during his final tipoff playing for Palo Alto High School varsity basketball. According to Purpur, the team didn't anticipate making it to playoffs as the season began, but hard work won them the Central Coast Section championships and a 12-0 record in league. "This year has truly been one of the best years of basketball in my life and I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to be a part of something so amazing," Purpur said. Photo: Margaret Li

Purpur tosses the basketball as he goes for a layup, scoring within 20 seconds on the first possession of the game. This pattern continued through the first half, with the Vikings earning as the second quarter opened up, taking the lead after the first quarter resolved in a 5-5 tie. Photo: Margaret Li

Senior Matthew Marzano looks for the pass as the Will C. Wood High School Wildcats defend. Photo: Margaret Li

Junior Andrew Li dribbles toward the basket as Purpur fends off the Wildcats' defense. Photo: Margaret Li

Senior Will Deandre pushes through Wood's defense. Deandre opened the second half with the first successful three-point attempt for the Vikings, working to reclaim the lead after the first half ended 10-17. Photo: Margaret Li

Purpur reaches as he attempts a shot while Marzano and senior Jamir Shepard guard against the Wildcats. Photo: Margaret Li

Junior Andrew Li approaches the top of the key with the ball as Paly begins to regain the lead, kicking off the second half with a burst of energy. Photo: Margaret Li

The Wildcats' defense guards against Shepard. A three-pointer by Shepard within the first minute of the second half tied the game 17-17. Photo: Margaret Li

Marzano grabs for the ball as the Wildcats look for the pass. The Vikings defense was strong throughout the game. Photo: Margaret Li

Marzano attempts a foul shot as his teammates and the Wildcats look on. Both halves wrapped up with ten fouls for the Vikings and eight for the Wildcats. Photo: Margaret Li

Shepherd battles against a Wood player as the game draws to a close. Wildcats took the game 40-33. Photo: Margaret Li

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