Branson Beats Marin Academy in NCS Quarterfinals

Top-seeded Bulls advance to semifinals with 73-51 victory

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The top-seeded Branson Bulls defeated the No. 9 Marin Academy Wildcats 73-51 in the North Coast Section quarterfinals on Friday. Branson, the defending NCS champions, were led by NJ Gray's game-high 23 points. The Bulls will host No. 5 Brave Christian in the semifinals on Tuesday after Brave Christian upset No. 4 San Domenico. Marin Academy was making its first NCS quarterfinal appearance since 2024 after missing the playoffs last year.

Why it matters

Branson is looking to defend its NCS title from last year, while Marin Academy was seeking its first semifinal berth in two seasons. The win continues Branson's playoff momentum as they aim to return to the NCS championship game.

The details

Branson jumped out to a 19-11 lead after the first quarter, with the Bulls' bench providing a scoring boost. Marin Academy used a box-and-1 defense to limit Gray early, but he took over in the fourth quarter, scoring 14 of his 23 points. Branson hit 10 3-pointers in the game, including four from Tyler Wells. Grayson Rothbart led Marin Academy with 17 points, including five 3-pointers, but the Wildcats could not keep up with Branson's size and depth down the stretch.

  • The top-seeded Bulls opened the playoffs with a 71-38 victory over Napa.
  • Branson will host No. 5 Brave Christian in Tuesday's semifinal.

The players

NJ Gray

A standout player for the Branson Bulls who scored a game-high 23 points in the quarterfinal win.

Tyler Wells

A Branson player who hit four 3-pointers and finished with 14 points in the victory.

Khalil Murphy

The head coach of the Marin Academy Wildcats, who was proud of his team's season and their return to the NCS quarterfinals.

Grayson Rothbart

A Marin Academy player who led the Wildcats with 17 points, including five 3-pointers.

Trystan Standfield

A Marin Academy player who finished with 11 points in the quarterfinal loss.

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What they’re saying

“We were just here last year vs. San Domenico in the (North Coast Section) final.”

— NJ Gray (marinij.com)

“I'm feeling excited. The playoff fun is escalating. It's a great atmosphere.”

— NJ Gray (marinij.com)

“I'm beyond proud of these guys. From Day 1, they competed, they committed to the program, they accepted my challenges. Most teams didn't expect us to be in this position this year. I'm proud of where we are and the seeds we're sowing for the future.”

— Khalil Murphy, Marin Academy head coach (marinij.com)

“The guys did a phenomenal job against NJ Gray through three quarters, but he's going to get his points. NJ is an incredible player.”

— Khalil Murphy, Marin Academy head coach (marinij.com)

“I see it in practice all the time. We work on that, the drive and the kickout. I have confidence in my teammates. I know what they can do.”

— NJ Gray (marinij.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.