Shaker High School in New York celebrated a historic achievement on March 17, 2024, when their boys basketball team clinched their first-ever New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) Class AAA championship. The Blue Bison triumphed over Brentwood High School with a 56–46 victory in the state finals, held at Cool Insuring Arena in Glens Falls. Shaker’s victory was fueled by a stellar performance from senior forward Javon English, who contributed 17 points and 11 rebounds. The team maintained a strong lead throughout the game, leveraging disciplined defense and efficient shooting to control Brentwood’s fast-paced offense.
The Blue Bison’s championship run capped off an exceptional season, with a remarkable 23–3 record. Along the way, they secured crucial playoff victories over powerhouse programs like Mount Vernon and Liverpool High School. Head coach Jeff Holmes, who has been with the team for nearly two decades, called the title the most significant achievement of his career. After the game, Holmes expressed immense pride in his team’s hard work and resilience, remarking, “They’ve worked all season for this. I couldn’t be prouder.”
The victory ignited celebrations throughout the Shaker community, with students, families, alumni, and local supporters coming together to celebrate the team’s groundbreaking success. School officials noted that the championship had set a new standard for Shaker basketball, marking a defining moment in the school's athletic history. This first-ever state title not only serves as a proud milestone for Shaker High School but also highlights the increasing competitiveness of basketball programs across New York State.
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