They took the next-to-last step Friday by outmuscling Orem 57-40 in their Class 4A boys’ basketball state semifinal.
Passionate senior Jason Ricketts, who found the hoop with ease for Juan Diego, led the way by going 8 of 9 from the field for 21 points while also grabbing eight rebounds.
Ricketts bent down and was overcome with emotion as the final buzzer sounded, grateful to have a final shot at the state championship.
“Going back to the championship means a lot to me,” he said. “The key word is revenge. We don’t want to lose another final, so we need to be sure to rest up and get ready for tomorrow.