Mikhael McKinney on display

Do make an effort to catch Washington High in action because that will provide you an opportunity to watch Mikhael McKinney. Yes, he needs to add strength for the next level (as does almost all high schoolers) but he displays a great handle, a high basketball IQ and a nice touch from outside.

Here's Kyle Bonagura with the latest:

Surging Washington High captures Tim Cole Memorial boys basketball tournament championship
Kyle Bonagura
Oakland Tribune
12/31/2009

There is no doubt that Washington High boys basketball coach Mike Tripp has high expectations for his team this season. He put together an ambitious nonleague schedule designed to challenge his team and prepare it for Mission Valley Athletic League play and a potential run in the North Coast Section Division I playoffs.

Coming into American's Tim Cole Memorial tournament, the Huskies had already advanced to the championship game at two tournaments, but fell in overtime on both occasions to Castro Valley and Rocklin.

The third time was a charm.

Washington led by as many as 23 points in the second half before hanging on to beat Antioch 61-55 on Wednesday to claim the Tim Cole title.

"It'll be nice to take a (first-place) trophy home after coming close at the other tournaments," said Washington guard Mikhael McKinney, who earned tournament MVP honors. "This is what we work so hard for..."

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