On an evening full of celebration the Dons hosted Clayton Valley for Senior Night honoring eight graduating seniors. The game wasn’t about the outcome but rather about the journey these fine young men have taken through their time as Acalanes Dons on and off the court. It was a night to also honor a caring and dedicated coaching staff and families who have helped lead, mentor and laugh with such a delightful squad of players.

The gym was packed with parents, students, grandparents, siblings and Lafayette basketball fans who love to support and cheer on the Dons. Although the final score wasn’t in favor of Acalanes, it was a game that had all the classic elements of Dons basketball.

Theo had his signature slashes to the basket, he constantly fed his fellow Dons with assists, he hit long-range 3s and knocked down free-throws from the line all without missing a beat.

Landon showed his passion for moving the ball, looking for open shots and open passes, getting in the face of is opponents and his never-ending infectious spirit for Dons basketball.

Colin has loved pulling down boards, posting up against the top guards in the league or taking down big men and this night was another showing of giving it his all. One of the highlights of the night was Colin grabbing the ball from Clayton’s big man, both players ending up on the floor and the Dons ending up with the ball. He also had the last point of the game hitting an FT from the line.

A Dons game just wouldn’t be the same without the energy of Zubin hitting 3s from all angles of the court. There is nothing more thunderous than the roar of the Dons fans after Zubin splashes a three and tonight was no exception.

As a fan it is so fun to watch Justin, he’s a player who does it all. Tonight he was pulling down big boards, running the floor, making plays, cutting to the basket and swishing a 3.

The intense focus and exuberance Nathan brings to the floor is unparalleled. Tonight he was doing what he does best, forcing turnovers, driving the lane, moving the ball, feeding assists, and putting up shots.

There’s nothing quite like the heart Jack gives to the game of basketball. Whether it’s fighting for rebounds, feeding assists, driving to the hoop or being poised from the line, Jack’s in it 100%. Tonight was no different, he drew a foul on a layup and converted a 3 point play, he continued making the ‘Jack to Jake’ plays and he worked the paint on both ends of the court.

Dons basketball has grown so accustomed to seeing Jake do it all and he once again gave the fans plenty to cheer about. He had a monster jam, he was blocking shots, he was drawing fouls and converting FTs, working the boards and converting put-back tip-ins.

The Dons are deep with a full range of talent and the night wasn’t only about the seniors but also about Dons basketball. Jordan Brown got into the action hitting a 3 on a huge cross-court pass from Jack and Ian Salmon and Joe Reidenbach jumped into the game with fresh legs boosting the Dons defense.

Congrats to our amazing seniors and all the happy friends, families and coaches that helped them get here!

Next game is away at Los Lamos this Saturday at 7pm, Go Dons!