San Antonio Academy
8th Graders Edge Out Alumni in Thrilling One-Point Victory
8th Graders Edge Out Alumni in Thrilling One-Point Victory
Posted November 7, 2025
In a heart-pounding finish that had fans on their feet, San Antonio Academy’s 8th-grade Wildcat basketball team clinched a dramatic one-point win over the alumni in the annual Alumni vs. 8th Grade Basketball Game.
Held Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025, in the McCombs Gymnasium, 15 alumni suited up to take on the Wildcats in what marked the 8th graders’ first game of the season. According to former SAA Athletic Director Mike Heineman, this tradition was revived in 1995 after a hiatus and has almost always favored the alumni. Until now, the 8th-grade team had never come close to a win.
This year’s matchup told a different story. From the opening tip-off to the final buzzer, the game stayed neck and neck. When the last shot fell, the scoreboard revealed a narrow but momentous victory for the 8th graders, and one for the Academy history books.
Players ranged from recent graduates to alumni from the 1990s. Among them was Bryant Gradillas ’26, who faced off against his 8th grade brother Kevin.
The evening was more than just a game—it was a celebration of brotherhood, tradition, and the spirit of The Academy. A heartfelt thank-you to all the alumni, families, staff, and students who attended and cheered on our Wildcats. It's with your support that we can keep this Academy tradition going strong.
View more photos in the Flickr Gallery below!
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