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Francis Parker’s Wild Second Half Propels Team to Open Division Final

Update The Wild Ride to Victory: Francis Parker's Thrilling Comeback On February 25, 2026, the Francis Parker Lancers delivered a memorable performance against Santa Fe Christian Eagles, advancing to the CIF Open Division final with a stunning 71-52 victory. This clash wasn’t just a game; it was a spectacle, showcased in a packed gym where excitement buzzed through the air. The skill and determination displayed by both teams perfectly illustrated why this match was eagerly anticipated by sports fans across Solana Beach, CA. A Second Half Surge That Shocked All Initially, the match was tightly contested with both teams exchanging points. As halftime approached, the scoreboard reflected the intensity: tied at 29. However, the tide turned dramatically in the second half, led by Parker's Columbus Palmer, who poured in 23 points, including 11 critical points during a decisive third quarter. Commenting on his team’s performance, Parker coach Mason Biddle exclaimed, "Never had a team play better in a big game than this. That second half was wild." This sentiment captures the essence of what the players delivered: a dominant offensive strategy that ultimately outmatched their opponents. The Role of Key Players In addition to Palmer’s stellar performance, Tavid Johnson supported the Lancers with 20 points and eight rebounds, showing a remarkable versatility in both scoring and board control. Ezekiel Walker also made significant contributions defensively, with three blocked shots and maintaining crucial rebounding. Their combined efforts exemplified teamwork, which was vital in overcoming the Eagle’s initial momentum. The Rivalry Continues: What This Win Means Significantly, this victory marked the third time in the season that Francis Parker defeated Santa Fe Christian, a rival that often pushes them to the limit. Johnson reflected on the weight of the win, noting, “This was about beating SFC three times; it was about winning a semifinal game and playing for a championship.” This perspective highlights not just a win, but the importance of overcoming a challenging competitor in postseason play. Looking Ahead: The Championship Game With this victory, Francis Parker secured its place in the Open Division title game against Victory Christian scheduled for Saturday at 5 p.m. at Frontwave Arena. This matchup will not only determine the division champion but also sets the stage for potential glory in the Southern California Regionals, as all eight teams in the Open Division advance. Reasons to Celebrate This Moment The game was a testament to the power of resilience and teamwork, qualities that resonate deeply within the sports community. Spectators noted the vibrant atmosphere, with fans three-deep along the baselines cheering on the teams. This support reinforces the value of community involvement in local sports, showcasing that high school games are not just about competition but also about coming together to celebrate talent and hard work. As fans of local sports begin to anticipate the championship, the Lancers are not just aiming to claim a title, but to continue fostering team spirit and camaraderie among the players, coaches, and supporters alike. Everyone is hoping to see another thrilling performance that could possibly conclude with a championship trophy, building the legacy of Francis Parker basketball.