Ray Jays Defeat M/P-B Thunder in Third Place Game

Jays' balanced scoring attack too much for Thunder in state tournament matchup

Mar. 30, 2026 at 12:00am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the dynamic action of a high-energy basketball game, with sharp geometric planes in the teams' colors creating a kinetic, energetic composition.The Ray Jays' balanced scoring attack proved too much for the M/P-B Thunder in the third place game of the state basketball tournament.Hankinson Today

The Ray Jays, making their first state tournament appearance in 36 years, defeated the M/P-B Thunder 77-69 in the third place game of the 2026 State Division B Boys Basketball Tournament. The Jays were led by a balanced scoring attack, with four players scoring in double figures, including Jace Becker with 23 points, Ty Barman with 22, and Blake Bergstrom and Brody Ceynar with 15 each. The Thunder were paced by Gage Hofmann's 20 points, but couldn't overcome the Jays' early offensive onslaught.

Why it matters

The Ray Jays' victory marks a significant milestone for the program, as they return to the state tournament for the first time in over three decades. The loss is a tough end to the season for the Thunder, but they have a solid returning core and could remain a force in the division next year.

The details

The Jays jumped out to a 22-11 lead in the first quarter and never looked back, leading 50-33 at halftime. The Thunder made a run in the second half, but couldn't overcome the early deficit. Becker, Barman, and Bergstrom were the key contributors for the Jays, while Gage Hofmann, Drew Hofmann, Chase Ova, and Terek Kinzell all scored in double figures for the Thunder.

  • The game was played on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at the Minot State University Dome.
  • The Ray Jays were making their first state tournament appearance in 36 years.

The players

Jace Becker

Led the Ray Jays with 23 points in the victory.

Ty Barman

Scored 22 points and was named to the All-Tournament Team for the Jays.

Blake Bergstrom

Scored 15 points and was also named to the All-Tournament Team for the Jays.

Gage Hofmann

Scored a team-high 20 points for the M/P-B Thunder in the loss.

Trevin Behm

Recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds for the Thunder.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

The Ray Jays' victory over the M/P-B Thunder in the third place game of the state tournament showcases the program's resurgence after a long absence from the big stage. While the Thunder's season ended on a sour note, they have a strong core returning and will look to build on this experience next year.