SEATTLE — Happily skipping past teammates and coaches along the Sumner High School sideline, someone handed workhorse running back Lance McGee the WIAA state-championship trophy.

Looking at it, he tilted his head and kissed it, then flashed a smile for a group of nearby photographers. 

His eyes twinkled. He was at peace, more than anything.

Given the fact a year ago at this time, he was running sprints and shooting free throws for the Davis  boys basketball team, and had no idea when Gridiron Classic was, or who was winning the Class 4A championship (he’d find out months later) — what had just happened was stunning.

And what McGee did Saturday night was truly remarkable.

McGee scored the game-winning 1-yard touchdown run in overtime, lifting the defending state champion Spartans past Lake Stevens, 41-35, to cap his record-breaking performance in the 4A championship game at Husky Stadium.

“He’s the best running back I’ve ever seen in the state,” Sumner coach Keith Ross said. “He is special.”

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2025 GRIDIRON CLASSIC RECAP

Class 3A final: O’Dea 21, Mount Tahoma 14 from VarsityWA

Class 2A final: Archbishop Murphy 35, Tumwater 20 from VarsityWA

Class 1A final: Royal 21, Cashmere 20 from Stat Hound correspondent Aaron Lommers

Class 2B final: Tri-Cities Prep 47, Toledo 34 from VarsityWA

Class 1B final: DeSales 26, Liberty Christian 14 from VarsityWA