In a clash defined by grit, pride, and neighborhood bragging rights, West Seattle High School edged out Chief Sealth International 17–10 in the 2025 Huling Bowl, reclaiming the coveted trophy in front of a packed crowd at the Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex.
The game opened with defensive intensity from both sides, as neither team found the end zone in the first quarter. But West Seattle’s senior quarterback Malik Thompson broke the stalemate early in the second, threading a 22-yard touchdown pass to wideout Jalen Cruz, electrifying the Wildcats’ sideline.
Chief Sealth responded with a methodical drive capped by a field goal, narrowing the gap to 7–3. But West Seattle’s ground game took over in the third quarter, with junior running back Isaiah Reed powering through tackles for a 14-yard rushing touchdown that extended the lead to 14–3.
The fourth quarter saw a late surge from the Seahawks, as quarterback Diego Martinez connected with tight end Leo Nguyen for a red-zone touchdown, bringing the score to 14–10. But West Seattle’s defense held firm, forcing a crucial turnover on downs with under two minutes remaining.
A final field goal by kicker Sophie Kim sealed the win, and the Wildcats stormed the field as the trophy returned to West Seattle after last year’s defeat.