MOSES LAKE, Wash. – The Moses Lake High School Knowledge Bowl team has earned a spot at the Washington State Knowledge Bowl Championship after securing first place at the North Central Educational Service District (NCESD) regional competition.

The team—Javier Gonzalez, Kameron Martinez, Amiya Saha, Bisente DeLeon, Lawrence Minor, and Ella Noble—claimed victory Feb. 24 in Wenatchee, showcasing their academic excellence and teamwork. They will now compete at the state tournament March 22 in Wenatchee.

What is Knowledge Bowl?

Knowledge Bowl is an academic competition where teams of students answer questions across various subjects, including history, science, mathematics, and literature. The event consists of a written round, followed by oral rounds where teams buzz in to answer questions quickly and accurately.

Washington’s Knowledge Bowl began in 1981, inspired by a similar competition in Colorado. By 1983, all nine Educational Service Districts (ESDs) in Washington hosted regional tournaments, leading to the state championship that continues today.

Mavericks’ path to state

The Mavericks have dedicated months to preparation, meeting every Tuesday and Thursday after school to sharpen their skills.

“There’s no one person that knows everything,” Gonzalez told the Columbia Basin Herald. “So, we rely on each other to know a bit of something, and the small bits make up a lot.” (Columbia Basin Herald, March 4, 2025)

Moses Lake High School Principal Sheila Kries praised the students for their commitment.

“Competitors must be well-versed in all academic areas, communicate effectively, and be ready to think on their feet,” Kries said. “It’s incredible to see our students excel in this environment.”

State tournament ahead

The Mavericks will now represent Moses Lake High School at the state tournament, competing against top teams from across Washington.

The Moses Lake School District congratulates the team on their success and wishes them the best of luck at state!