Barlow wins state championship, giving coach Tom Johnson his long-awaited title

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Head Coach Tom Johnson has finally won his first state championship after overseeing the Barlow Bruins for almost 40 years. In a fierce 6A OSAA boys basketball state championship game, Barlow defeated Jesuit, 61-55, in front of a sold-out Chiles Center crowd.

Both schools’ fan bases packed the arena for the championship, creating an electric and loud atmosphere. The game was tit-for-tat nearly the whole way with Barlow having only a slim 22-19 lead at halftime. 

Neither team took complete control until late in the 3rd quarter when Barlow strung together a crucial stretch that led to the game’s first notable point margin and had them ahead 42-32 going into the 4th. 

As a team very used to the high stakes championship platform, Jesuit was determined to fight until the end. Late in the game, the Crusaders cut a double-digit deficit to just 6 points. However, Barlow maintained its composure and held on until the end. 

Johnson’s career victory # 711 may have been the most important one of all. But it’s still unclear if he will retire or return next season. Even though the seasoned coach had experienced plenty of triumphs, he had never raised the championship trophy until now. 

In addition to solidifying the Bruins’ position in Oregon basketball history, this championship represents the culmination of their great coach’s 40-year journey.