'Beach Boyz' debate: Which Rainier Beach boys basketball team was better — 2025 or 2026?

Last season's 3A championship squad featured Jaylen Petty and Kaden Powers while this year's state-favorite team showcases Tyran Stokes and JJ Crawford

Longtime coach Mike Bethea led Rainier Beach to the WIAA Class 3A championship a year ago — and is attempting to do the same thing with a new star-studded group. (Lauren Smith / VarsityWA)

Put the question up for debate, and longtime Rainier Beach boys basketball coach Mike Bethea pauses.

Who would win a one-for-all showdown between last year’s WIAA Class 3A championship Vikings team and this year’s dynamo squad?

“Hard to say,” Bethea said in a diplomatic tone.