THROUGH THE LENS: Celebrations abound as boys basketball, wrestling come to an end

EASTERN IDAHO — The last week of February saw the boys state basketball brackets solidified, with several eastern Idaho teams securing their spots. Over the weekend, state champion wrestlers were crowned following a long weekend of matches on the Idaho State University campus.

All told, countless east Idaho student-athletes had reason to celebrate last week, and those celebrations were caught on camera.

South Fremont’s Boden Banta celebrates after winning the 4A 126-pound state championship, Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the ICCU Dome. With the win, Banta became a four-time state champion. | Courtesy photo

North Fremont’s Bryce Jensen battles with Gabe Muilenburg, from Glanns Ferry, for the 3A 126-pound state championship, Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the ICCU Dome. Muilenburg won the match by an 11-0 decision. | Courtesy photo

Firth’s Ashton Allen celebrates his victory in the 3A 165-pound fifth-place match, Friday, Feb. 28, 2025, at the ICCU Dome. | Courtesy photo

Madison’s Rex Salas lifted by his coach following his victory in the 6A 285-pound finals match Saturday, March 1, 2025. | Courtesy photo

Marsh Valley boys basketball players storm after winning the 4A D5 District title 67-62 victory over Snake River at Marsh Valley High School, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025. Fans joined the players and coaching in storming the court. | Courtesy photo

The Watersrpings boys basketball team poses with its 1A D5-6 District Champions trophy after beating Rockland, 51-49, in the district finals, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025, at Snake River High School. | Courtesy photo