Saint Joe's Basketball: Boys and Girls Advance to NorCal Finals

It was a day to remember for the boys and girls basketball teams Saturday evening.

In front of a sold-out and boisterous home crowd, the St. Joe's boys basketball team advanced to the Northern California Division V final with an exciting 75-71 overtime victory over Vacaville Christian.

The girls also advanced to the section title game, beating Eastside Prep 45-38.

For the boys, the triumph marks the second time in three seasons that the Pilots have earned a spot in the NorCal title game.

Back in 2008-2009 season, St. Joseph defeated Branson in a classic contest to move on to the state title game.

"This feels great," said point guard Jacari Whitfield just moments after the big win. "I'm really happy we going back (to the NorCal title game)."

The top-seeded Pilots will face University High of San Francisco on Saturday, March 19 for the right to represent Northern California in the Division V state title game. University upset No. 2-seeded Pinewood.

Game time is set for 3 p.m. at Folsom High School near Sacramento.

GIRLS ADVANCE:  While fans in attendance on the Island had their eyes glued to the action on the court, many St. Joseph supporters also had their ears focused on the score updates coming from Palo Alto.

When the PA announcer in the Pilots' gym screamed that the game had went final, a huge roar echoed through the St. Joseph gym.

Sophomore guard Desiree Harris landed 18 points to help defeat the No. 2-seeded Eastside Prep.

The St. Joseph girls will tangle with top-seeded Pinewood on Saturday, March 19 at Folsom High. Game time is at 1 p.m.

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Tune in to Alameda Patch this week for coverage of both basketball teams and their quest for a state title.

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