Crusaders make leap of faith up to 3A

Mike Sims

Friday, Feb. 25, 2005 | 9:33 a.m.

The Faith Lutheran boys' basketball has a tall task ahead, moving up in class and winning the state title in its first season.

Two years ago the Crusaders won the state title in the 2A level, but in 2004 moved up to 3A, and the transition has been very successful.

"I don't think we did anything different," Faith Lutheran coach Bret Walter said. "We have played these teams before."

The Crusaders (24-3) moved up this season but have been preparing for the change for a few years. Their schedule for the past few seasons has been full of 3A and even 4A squads.

"We performed well during the season. We came together as a team," Walter said.

Faith Lutheran has only lost three games this season; two of the three were to 4A schools Vo-Tech and Silverado. The Crusaders also beat Clark and Del Sol to finish 2-2 against Nevada's highest class. Their third loss came against Moapa Valley in an overtime end-of-the-season thriller. The Crusaders were hoping to get a shot at Moapa Valley in the state tournament, but a loss in the regional tournament to Virgin Valley ended the Pirates' season.

Walter said his team planned from the beginning of the season to make the jump a success. Their goal was to make the state tournament and have a chance at the title.

"It was a goal we wanted to achieve," Walter said. "We just have to play hard."

That is exactly where the Crusaders have positioned themselves.

The Crusaders are scheduled to face Yerington (22-7) in the semifinals of the 3A state tournament today at the Orleans Arena. The state final will be 5 p.m. Saturday.

"The important thing is we have to do what we do best to win," Walter said. "If we prepare well, take care of the ball, we should have a chance."

Faith Lutheran will not become the first team to move up in class and win a state title if it should happen. Las Vegas High won state in 1965 at 2A and then in 1966 at 3A. Virgin Valley also did it in 1996-1997.