Griffins make school history by capturing their first-ever sectional basketball championship with a hard-fought win

Rochester, New York – In an unforgettable moment for the Rochester City School District (RCSD), the World of Inquiry Griffins boys basketball team made history by securing their first-ever sectional title. The momentous win came on Saturday morning, March 8, as the Griffins triumphed over Waterloo with a thrilling 62-53 victory in the Section V Class B1 championship game at the Blue Cross Arena.

The game was a hard-fought battle, but the Griffins managed to pull ahead, claiming the sectional crown in a performance filled with grit, determination, and teamwork. This victory not only brings glory to the team but also marks a significant milestone in the history of World of Inquiry School No. 58. The win advances the Griffins to the Class B Far West Regional Qualifier, where they will face East Rochester on Tuesday, continuing their remarkable postseason journey.

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Leading the way for World of Inquiry was standout player Kanaz Linder, who delivered a stellar performance with a team-high 18 points. Linder’s scoring prowess was crucial in helping the Griffins seal the win. Alongside him, Jaedon Adams-Griffin added 16 points to the scoreboard. Adams-Griffin, who earlier this season surpassed the impressive milestone of 1,000 career points, was once again a major offensive force. His experience and skill were key to securing the championship for the team.

The historic win is a testament to the leadership of Head Coach Willie Mason, who has been a driving force behind the Griffins’ success. Mason, who was recently honored as Section V’s Class B1 Coach of the Year, has played a pivotal role in shaping the team’s journey. In addition to his coaching duties at World of Inquiry, Mason is also the lead school safety officer at Andrew Langston Middle School. His dedication to RCSD athletics extends beyond basketball, as he also coaches boys volleyball at the School of the Arts and serves as an assistant baseball coach at Padilla High School at the Franklin Campus.

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“This is a huge accomplishment for the team, the school, and the community,” said Coach Mason after the game. “We’ve worked so hard to get here, and the players have shown incredible resilience and commitment all season long. They deserve this moment.”

The victory also signals a new chapter for the Griffins, who have built a program defined by hard work, resilience, and unity. The team’s journey has inspired not just the school community but the entire RCSD, as students, staff, and fans alike celebrate this historic achievement.

As the Griffins prepare for their next challenge in the regional qualifier, the entire RCSD community stands behind them. The support for the team has been overwhelming, and everyone is eager to see what’s next for this trailblazing squad. With their eyes set on the next goal, the Griffins continue to make history, one game at a time.