The Gidgalang Kuuyas Naay Breakers boys basketball team made history on March 9, becoming the first team from Haida Gwaii to make it to the finals of the B.C. high school provincial championships.
The Breakers fell to the Chilliwack-based Unity Christian Flames in a heartbreaking 74-71 loss for the Single A senior boys championships in Langley.
Levi Burton and Temo Laughlin both made the tournament’s first all-star team, while Greg Puterill’s impressive performances earned him a spot on the second all star team. Puterill’s 11-point showing in the final also saw him named MVP for the final game.
Loay Almahamid was recognized for his lock-down defence, being named defensive player of the tournament.
The Daajing Giids based-Breakers had to face some of the province’s top talents before making it to the final. The sixth-seed Haida Gwaii team overcame Vancouver-based No. 3 seed St. John’s School Eagles in the quarter-finals before beating second-seed Maple Ridge Christian Hornets in the semifinals.
Many of the Breakers took part in the intermediate division at the February All Native Basketball Tournament in Prince Rupert and will be competing at the Junior All Native Tournament in Terrace starting March 17.
Coaches for the Breakers included All Native legends for the Skidegate Saints Desi Collinson and Duane Alsop.
READ MORE: Terrace gears up for Junior All Native Tournament