Prep boys basketball Warriors double down on defense in District quarterfinal win over Ferndale

The Edmonds-Woodway Warriors secured a commanding 62-42 victory against the Ferndale Golden Eagles in the District 1 3A Boys Basketball Tournament quarterfinals, reflecting their renewed defensive focus. After previously allowing 74 points in a single game, the Warriors have successfully emphasized defense, resulting in a four-game winning streak with opponents averaging fewer than 55 points. Notably, they limited Ferndale to just six points in the second quarter, showcasing their defensive capabilities. Junior DJ Karl highlighted the team's collective effort to pressure the ball effectively, leading to multiple scoring opportunities. Senior Cam Hiatt topped the scoring chart with 21 points, while Karl, recovering from an ankle injury, contributed 10 points.

The victory propels the Warriors into a semifinal clash against the Shorewood Stormrays on February 19. The team aims for one of the four berths to the regional round of the 3A state tournament, with aspirations of reaching the Tacoma Dome. Their journey towards this goal has been a focal point since the season's start, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and defensive strategy.