End of an Era: Sierra Canyon Wins Gritty CIF Title as Bryce James Cements Family Legacy
SACRAMENTO — For the past six years, the Sierra Canyon basketball program has been closely tied to the James family name. From Bronny to Bryce, the spotlight has never been far away. Celebrities packed the stands, cameras followed their every move, and the Trailblazers became a high school basketball spectacle.
But in the final game of the James Era, with LeBron James watching courtside, there was no glamour or Hollywood magic—just toughness and sheer will.
“This game was all about will and want-to,” Sierra Canyon coach Andre Chevalier said.
It wasn’t a high-scoring, flashy affair, but Sierra Canyon found a way to grind out a 58-53 victory over Stockton Lincoln in the CIF State Division I final at Golden 1 Center, securing the program’s first state title since 2019.
The game came down to key plays in the final minute. Bryce Cofield put Sierra Canyon ahead 53-51 with a clutch basket, and Maxi Adams sealed the win with an and-1 play, pushing the lead to 56-51 with 19 seconds left. Adams also hit a crucial three-pointer earlier to give Sierra Canyon a 51-50 advantage.
“My coaches tell me to keep shooting, so why not let it fly,” Adams said.
The seniors stepped up when it mattered most. Gavin Hightower led the way with 15 points and nine rebounds, while Adams contributed 14 points and eight rebounds. Cofield added 11 points and eight boards.
Bryce James struggled offensively, shooting just 1-of-9 for three points, but he remained focused on the team’s accomplishment.
“My teammates are my brothers,” Bryce said. “They always pick me up. Even tonight, I wasn’t making shots … but I always have confidence in myself and so do my teammates.”
Sierra Canyon (27-7) battled through a rough shooting night, hitting just 32% from the field (17-of-52) and 66% from the free-throw line. The game saw 16 lead changes, nine ties, and a total of 48 free throws attempted between both teams. Lincoln’s Donez Lindsey and Anthony Moore each scored 18 points in the loss.
For Chevalier, this championship represented more than just a title—it was a testament to perseverance.
“This is the best coaching job I’ve ever done,” he said.
As Bryce James put it, the championship evens things out between him and his older brother.
“He should’ve had one in 2020, so I say it’s 1-1 now,” Bryce said.
