On January 22, 2011, Glen A. Wilson High School welcomed back their 1986 State Championship basketball team for the 25th anniversary alumni game at the school gym. The alumni players, some who live out of state, were happy to return and reunite with their former teammates to play against the current boys’ Varsity team.
This event was a fundraiser for the boys’ basketball program. With the money raised, they plan to buy equipment and go to tournaments.
Excited alumni were among the crowd who greeted their long-lost colleagues with hugs, laughter, and an exchange of phone numbers. Many were surprised to see each other with young children by their side. Denise Schwab, 43, an alum said, “It’s amazing to come back, but it makes me feel old. It’s great to see everyone with their families all at once.”
One raffle came along with the entrance ticket for a chance to win prizes. There was a silent auction which included a Derek Fischer-autographed basketball and a Grant Hill-autographed shoe.
A much anticipated alum, Scott Williams, came out to play. He played alongside Michael Jordan with the Chicago Bulls and won three NBA championships in the ‘90s.
For the Varsity basketball team, this event was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Jimmy Gonzalez, senior, said, “It’s exciting to play against the state champs. They were the number one team in California that year.” This game may have been for fun, but it was a chance to compare which team is better.
During the game, the alumni towered over the Varsity players and made the first couple shots. It was impressive how they could still dunk in their forties. However, their stiffness was no match for the speed and agility of the Varsity players. The crowd cheered for their side of the team. The Varsity players tried, with success, to block and steal the ball away from their tall opponents. At the last moment, the alumni tried to make the final shots, but the Varsity team won 54-51.
After the game, the Varsity team, alumni, and cheerleaders took a group picture on the court. The audience came down from the bleachers to get autographs and pictures from Williams and other alumni players. Williams said, “This was really special for me because I got to share this moment with my classmates.”
Matthew Ng, junior, said, “Winning the game gives me motivation to win the league.” Glen A. Wilson High School hopes to see the next “Dream Team” this year.
