It was a big second half for the Bulldogs who scored the first 11 points of the third quarter.
"In the second half we did a great job of putting pressure on the basketball and spreading out on defense," said Oakland Tech head coach Karega Hart. "We went inside to start the half."
Oakland Tech was led by senior
Ahmed Gulaid and juniors
Ardarius Grayson and
Caleb Rollins, who all had double-digit scoring performances.
"I wasn't really expecting to score a lot," Rollins said. "I really just provide defense and energy for this team. Today I just felt good."
It's the third trip to the state finals for Oakland Tech and first since 2003. It's also the 30th win of the season for the Bulldogs.
Oakland Tech wins first state crown 79-55 over Centennial (Bakersfield) in the CIF Division II championship Saturday. (Photo: David Steutel)
By the end of the third quarter Oakland Tech led 59-41 after Rollins and Grayson both scored in the final minute.
Grayson had a huge game to help the Bulldogs reach the state final after defeating rival Oakland 73-66 in the NorCal title game. Grayson finished the state championship with 20 points, 12 rebounds, seven assists and five steals.
"We practice a lot on rebounding," Grayson said. "The double-double just comes with the work that we put in during practice."
Centennial started the game on a roll going up 7-2 as senior
Rippen Gill scored six of his 22 points in that span.
"I'm extremely proud of these kids," said Centennial head coach Hernan Santiago. "They came together. For us to get this far it's crazy how much fun it's been and it's been a great ride."
Senior
Donquavius Bolton also reached double-digits and finished with 12 points for Centennial.
"I think the journey is everything," Bolton said. "Over the four years I've been at Centennial, I've always felt like they are my second family. They do a great job of bringing you in and making you feel wanted. It's really contagious."
