The Archbishop Riordan boys varsity basketball season was one filled with much success and quite possibly went down as the best ever high school team from Northern California.

Ultimately, the team fell short to Roosevelt High School in the CIF Open Division State Championship 80-60. Despite the heartbreaking loss, the team had a dominant and unforgettable season. 

The team had an overall record of 29-2 and were undefeated at 14-0 in WCAL play for their second consecutive season.

Athletic Director Bob Greene said, “I think this is one of the great teams in the history of San Francisco, not just Riordan. One of the great teams, if not the greatest team in the history of the West Catholic Athletic League.”

Not only did they go undefeated in WCAL play, they won by at least 25 points, with seven of those games ending by a mercy rule after they were ahead by 40. The team also became the first San Francisco school to play the CIF Open Division title.

Coach Joey Curtin ’01 said, “I am most proud of the consistency and they all in attitude of this team. They worked hard everyday without complaint. They worked for each other and for a shared goal of going to State.”

The team brought the community together. Games were sold out as soon as tickets were available, and people lined up around campus to get into the gym.

Center Nes Emeneke ’25 said, “I’m proud of the bonds we created. We are more than a team, we are a family and these connections are going to last forever!”

The team displayed amazing chemistry throughout the season. English teacher Richard Sylvester ’01 said, “This team was special because they were so unselfish. It didn’t feel like anyone prioritized their numbers out there and just wanted to make the right play and do whatever it took to win.”

This team was remarkable to witness with their record- shattering season, and journey all the way to state. The Crusaders had a season for the history books.