The Washougal Panthers are hoping an extended postseason football run translates to basketball success.
On the gridiron, the Panthers advanced to the state quarterfinals for the first time since 1974. While it delayed the beginning of basketball season for several players, it proved Washougal has the athletes to compete.
“The football players were a little in shock of being here,” third-year coach AJ Labree said on the second day the players returned to the hardwood. “But I heard good things about what they did on the football field. I expect them to pick it up and take on some leadership roles.”
Among the football standouts turning out for hoops are 6-foot guard Brevan Bea, 6-1 guard Julien Jones and 6-3 forward Jakob Davis.
Davis missed all of last season after injuring his knee during the first game of last year’s basketball season. He is fully healthy and gives the Panthers a big body on the interior. He joins 6-5 junior Gabe Kent and 6-3 freshman Yanni Fassilis in the post.
