In the 2025 Minnesota high school boys basketball state tournament, the undefeated Albany Huskies faced off against the formidable Waseca Bluejays in the Class 2A championship. The match took place at Williams Arena, with a scheduled start time of 5 p.m. Despite an early lead by the Huskies, the game witnessed dramatic shifts in momentum, turnovers, and clutch plays that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Albany started strong but struggled with turnovers, while Waseca capitalized on these mistakes to seize control. Both teams showcased impressive scoring abilities and resilience, leading to a tightly contested second half where every possession mattered.

An Early Advantage and Midgame Drama

From the opening tip-off, Albany dominated the initial minutes, establishing a commanding lead through sharp shooting and aggressive playmaking. However, Waseca responded with determination, overcoming early struggles to claw back into contention. Their ability to force turnovers became pivotal in narrowing the gap before halftime.

As the game began, Albany seized control quickly, capitalizing on Waseca's misfires from beyond the arc. Zeke Austin emerged as a standout performer for the Huskies, contributing significantly to their early advantage. Despite this, Waseca’s relentless defense forced multiple turnovers, allowing them to regain composure and momentum. By halftime, the score tightened considerably, setting the stage for an intense second half. Notably, Damarius Russell's timely three-pointer shifted the dynamics in favor of the Bluejays, illustrating how critical moments could sway the outcome.

A Tense Second Half and Final Push

After halftime, Waseca extended its momentum with a decisive run, taking the lead and dictating the pace of the game. Yet, Albany demonstrated remarkable tenacity, alternating leads and maintaining hope until the final buzzer sounded. Turnovers continued to plague both sides, underscoring the pressure-packed nature of the contest.

Entering the second half, Waseca capitalized on Albany's turnovers, building upon their earlier successes. This strategic focus enabled them to take a brief lead, though Albany countered effectively, keeping the competition closely matched. As the clock ticked down, each team fought valiantly, showcasing not only individual brilliance but also collective teamwork under duress. Ultimately, the game exemplified why such matchups are celebrated—highlighting skill, strategy, and sportsmanship at their finest levels. Deron Russell’s contributions stood out alongside those of Austin, ensuring that memories of this clash would endure long after the final whistle blew.