4A boys basketball Final 4: Kent Denver and University set for title tilt

DENVER – With hopes of reclaiming a state championship title, the Kent Denver boys basketball team secured their bid to Saturday’s Class 4A title game after defeating Timnath 82-72 in the CHSAA Final 4 at the Denver Coliseum on Friday.

The first quarter of the game remained in close contention, before ultimately finishing tied at 21. However, Kent Denver took control in the second, outscoring Timnath to build a 43–34 lead at halftime.

As the second half continued, Sun Devils guard Henry Czaja and team captain Sam Glynn dominated the scoreboard, each producing over 15 points by the start of the fourth quarter. Glynn finishing with a total of 23 points and being highly credited by coach Todd Schayes for his performance and composure.

“We have our CHSAA 4A boys state player of the year… Colorado player of the year and hopefully Gatorade player of the year, and Caleb (Fay) will be the first person to tell you… You have to even check (Sam’s) pulse sometimes because he remains so levelheaded.”

Playing a solid game and being the first team to reach the title game is certainly a plus for the Sun Devils.

“We’re always mentally set as a team regardless of who we play,” Glynn said. “But having this first game [then seeing who wins later] is nice.”

Timnath defense remained heavy throughout the matchup, with the team leading in both blocks and rebounds before falling in the fourth quarter. With a heavy senior roster with Jack Hemme, who led the game with 29 points, at the front.

Following last year’s performance, where Kent Denver defeated their rivals Colorado Academy, Schayes brought the team’s second title home and is hoping to collect a third later this weekend.

“Whether we get first or second place, it’s a blessing,” said Schayes.

Kent Denver will play for the state title at 11.45 a.m. tomorrow to face the winner of University and Peak to Peak’s Final 4 game.

University 82, Peak to Peak 70

University has a chance to win its first state basketball title since 1996. The Bulldogs jumped out to an early lead and kept Peak to Peak at bay, getting an 80-72 win in the 4A Final 4.

John Elbe scored a game-high 29 points and Sawyer River added 19. Cole Boonstra led the Pumas with 26.

This is the first title game appearance for the Bulldogs since they won that title in 1996.