Linden boys basketball holds off hot Ridge's upset bid in quarters

No. 2 seed Linden defeats No. 10 seed Ridge 55-45 in North 2 Group 4 quarterfinal

Mar. 3, 2026 at 2:31am

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The Linden High School boys basketball team held off a strong upset bid from Ridge High School, defeating the Red Devils 55-45 in the North 2 Group 4 quarterfinal. Linden, the No. 2 seed, trailed for much of the first half before rallying to take a one-point lead at halftime. The Tigers then pulled away in the second half with a strong defensive effort and balanced scoring to advance to the sectional semifinal.

Why it matters

This victory keeps Linden's season alive as they continue their quest for a sectional title. The Tigers, who have displayed remarkable balance and unselfishness all season, will now host a familiar Union County rival in the semifinal. Meanwhile, Ridge's impressive late-season run comes to an end, but the Red Devils can be proud of the progress they made after a 0-4 start to the year.

The details

Linden overcame an early 6-0 deficit and a halftime deficit to rally past Ridge. The Tigers' defense clamped down in the second half, limiting Ridge's open looks from 3-point range. Linden also protected the ball extremely well, committing just 3 turnovers in the game. Jayden Holman led Linden with 11 points, while Deng Deng and Asante Jones added 10 each. Ridge's Gabe Kielb scored a game-high 19 points, including 6 3-pointers.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
  • Linden will host Union in the sectional semifinal on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 7 p.m.

The players

Jayden Holman

Linden High School senior point guard who led the Tigers with 11 points.

Deng Deng

Linden High School big man who scored 10 points, including 8 in the fourth quarter.

Asante Jones

Linden High School center who contributed 10 points to the Tigers' balanced scoring attack.

Gabe Kielb

Ridge High School senior who scored a game-high 19 points, including 6 3-pointers.

Bill Lester

Ridge High School head coach who was proud of his team's effort despite the loss.

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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

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.