Watch out, 4A: Federal Way beats Auburn, looks like legitimate state contender
Federal Way and Auburn have played thrilling games in recent seasons. The boys basketball programs have consistently been at the top of the North Puget Sound League — Federal Way in 4A and Auburn the 3A classification.
Last year was Auburn’s time to shine. The Trojans, who went on to win the Class 3A state championship at the Tacoma Dome, beat Federal Way.
This year, it was Federal Way’s turn to return the favor. On the road on Thursday night, Federal Way defeated the reigning 3A state champions, 71-58, outscoring the Trojans 22-6 in the third quarter and running away with the game in the second half.
“It’s really — we’re all good,” said Federal Way senior Dace Pleasant. “If we share the ball, we’re all hungry. We’ve just gotta work together and we’ll meet our goal.”
Pleasant led the Eagles with 21 points, while senior teammate Vaughn Weems added 17. Federal Way made seven 3-pointers in the win, including five in the first half (two of which came from players off the bench). Federal Way is shooting the ball better than in years past.
“Really just sharing the ball,” Pleasant said. “We all believe in each other. I believe in all my teammates.”
Weems said the team is playing with confidence and the players trust each other.
“Lots of reps in practice,” he said. “When we catch it, we’re just shooting the ball with confidence. Nobody is hesitating. That’s really it.”
Pleasant, Weems and senior Isaiah Afework have been impact players for Federal Way since they were sophomores. Afework, a relentless worker on both ends of the floor, is the team’s heartbeat. Weems, a fluid scorer, is the team’s motor.
With Pleasant, the talent has always been there. In the offseason, he challenged himself to cut weight and dropped 25 pounds. He’s playing with renewed confidence in his final high school season.
“I dropped a couple pounds,” Pleasant said, coyly. “Running a lot. Feeling good. Last year, I think we ended our season short. So this year, it’s something personal, like I said.”
Federal Way coach Yattah Reed applauded Pleasant’s dedication to cutting weight in the offseason.
“That was all him,” Reed said. “That was him making that sacrifice. I think he took the challenge and kudos to him. He dropped 25, he’s moving quicker, his (defense) on the perimeter is better and he can stay in the game longer.”
Auburn was paced by Jaylen Petty’s game-high 30 points, including five 3-pointers for the Trojans. Senior Lateibreon Chandler added 13 points. Federal Way moves to 11-1 with the win and looks the part of a legitimate 4A state title contender.
“We’re practicing, competing hard, battling with each other, competing, that’s all we’re worried about,” Weems said.
