The San Ramon Valley boys basketball team played a critical game against Monte Vista, honoring the recently deceased coach Hans de Lannoy. Despite their grief, the players found strength in memories of de Lannoy, whose absence was symbolized by an empty seat marked with his hat and flowers. Coach Botteen emphasized the therapeutic nature of the game for the team, drawing on shared experiences of loss. A moment of silence and a tape of de Lannoy's voice added to the emotional atmosphere as the team united in their messages of remembrance and healing.
Even though the San Ramon Valley gymnasium was packed to capacity for Friday's 71-60 boys basketball victory against rival Monte Vista, one spot remained unoccupied throughout the game.
'This is what we needed,' coach Brian Botteen said. 'It's medicine and it's therapy ... this is what these boys needed.'
'We felt his presence, and when you occasionally turn and see the hat ... you know it's going to be OK, but we miss our friend,' Botteen said.
'Whose house?' in a recording Botteen played for the team. The players responded by bellowing, 'Our house!'
'It's us crying together, praying together, sharing stories together...'
Before tipoff, a lengthy moment of silence was held for the man who impacted the lives of thousands at the Danville public school and beyond.
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