URGENT UPDATE: The top-seeded Mt. Hope High School boys’ basketball team clinched a spot in the championship game after defeating Cranston West 59-53 in a thrilling semifinal match on March 2, 2026, at Fitzgerald Gym. The reigning Division III champions displayed their skill and determination, making a successful transition to Division II this season.
With this victory, the Huskies will face the winner of the upcoming semifinal between St. Raphael and Burrillville in the league title contest set for Thursday, March 5, at the Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence. The championship game will tip off at 8:00 PM.
BREAKING: The second-seeded St. Raphael Saints are set to host the 11th-seeded Burrillville Broncos in their semifinal match on Tuesday, March 3. Burrillville reached this stage after a stunning upset against third-seeded East Greenwich, winning 69-53.
The Huskies’ victory over the Falcons marked their 20th consecutive win against in-state teams, showcasing their dominance in Rhode Island high school basketball. Earlier this season, Mt. Hope defeated both potential opponents from the upcoming championship match, adding to the anticipation of the title game.
The match against Cranston West was intense from the start. Mt. Hope raced to an early lead, ending the first quarter with a 17-9 advantage. Will Francis emerged as a key player, scoring six of his eight points in the opening period, including a remarkable layup assisted by Jacob Tamke.
Despite some moments of struggle, particularly in maintaining their lead during the second quarter, the Huskies regained control, thanks to a crucial jumper from Maleaq Roderick that initiated a 9-2 run, pushing their lead to 29-21 at halftime.
Throughout the second half, Mt. Hope maintained a steady lead, never allowing Cranston West to regain momentum. The Huskies’ talent shone brightly as they extended their advantage to double digits, culminating in a 12-point lead late in the third quarter.
“We just focused on playing our game and staying disciplined,” said Mt. Hope coach after the match.
As the game progressed, the Falcons managed to narrow the gap to five points in the final moments, but Mt. Hope sealed the victory at the free throw line. Tamke led the team with 15 points, followed closely by Jack Thompson with 14 and Roderick contributing 11.
The excitement builds as fans eagerly await the championship matchup. Will Mt. Hope continue their winning streak, or will their opponents rise to the occasion? Stay tuned for further updates as we approach the highly anticipated title game on March 5.
