Lake Washington Kangaroos Roar to WIAA 4A Semifinals, Finish Strong at State Tournament

Kirkland, WA, witnessed an unforgettable season for its Lake Washington High School Varsity Boys Basketball team, as the Kangaroos carved out an impressive path to the WIAA 2026 Boys Basketball State Tournament 4A semifinals. Their hard work, dedication, and incredible talent were on full display throughout the tournament, culminating in a fantastic 25-5 overall record and a #6 ranking in Washington state. The Kangs left it all on the court, battling against the state's best and leaving no doubt about their place among the elite.

Kangs Battle Through State Gauntlet

The journey through the 4A State Tournament was a thrilling one for the Kangaroos. They started their state campaign with a commanding performance on Saturday, February 28, 2026, defeating Puyallup High School 72-56 in the WIAA 4A Opening Round at Bellevue College. This decisive win set the tone, showcasing their depth and offensive power. Moving deeper into the bracket, Lake Washington faced Glacier Peak High School on Thursday, March 5, 2026. In a nail-biting contest, the Kangs dug deep to secure a 49-46 victory, demonstrating their defensive prowess and clutch play under pressure. This win propelled them into the state semifinals, a testament to their unwavering spirit. The semifinal clash on Friday, March 6, 2026, saw Lake Washington meet a formidable Richland High School squad. In a high-scoring affair, the Kangaroos fought valiantly but ultimately fell 70-83, bringing an end to their state championship aspirations. However, the true measure of a team lies in how they respond to adversity. The very next day, Saturday, March 7, 2026, Lake Washington bounced back with incredible resilience, defeating Emerald Ridge High School 74-67 to claim a strong finish in the tournament. This final victory underscored the team's character and competitive fire, proving they were a force to be reckoned with until the very end.

A Season for the Ages

The 2025-26 season was nothing short of spectacular for Lake Washington's boys basketball program. Their 25-5 record speaks volumes about the consistency and excellence displayed by these young athletes. Every player contributed to this success, showing the kind of teamwork and selflessness that defines championship-caliber programs. From the roaring crowds in Kirkland to the electric atmosphere of the state tournament, the support for the Kangaroos was palpable. Talented local photographers like Kim Kisslo, who captured the intense WIAA 4A Opening Round game against Puyallup, and Steve Faber, who documented their district final against Mount Si, helped preserve these indelible memories for the community, showcasing the raw emotion and athleticism of Washington's high school stars. These dedicated individuals, working behind the scenes, help tell the stories of these incredible seasons, highlighting the hard work these kids pour into their craft. The entire Lake Washington community should be incredibly proud of what these young men accomplished. Their journey to the WIAA 4A State Tournament semifinals was a remarkable feat, a demonstration of their collective will to succeed and their passion for the game. This season will undoubtedly serve as a strong foundation for future success, inspiring the next generation of Kangaroos to chase their own state tournament dreams.

This article was created with AI assistance. Stats and results sourced from public records.