Coach Eddie Morales believes his Timberwolves (16-11) are nearing their peak as they head into the postseason, and Seals is a big reason why.

The 6-foot-3 forward was dominant in their Valley Oak League finale against rival East Union last Wednesday, Feb. 7, netting 20 points, 13 rebounds, a steal and a block in the 54-46 victory.

“I think he’s one of the best players in the league and he’s just getting better,” Morales said after the win. “I’ve let him know that the farther we go, the more we’re going to need him, and he’s starting to be more aggressive. He and Anthony (Grady) are a good duo, so when both of them are getting after it, it makes us scary.”

East Union trailed at halftime 26-24 but gave Sierra fits on the boards in the first half.

Seals ignited the T’wolves out of the intermission with a dunk off a designed half-court play, and 20 seconds later threw down a one-handed tomahawk slam on a fastbreak.

“It gave us a boost of energy and set off the run,” Seals said.

That was part of a 10-4 run to start the third quarter, and Sierra did not trail again.

Also key was the Timberwolves’ improved effort on the glass, outrebounding the Lancers 19-8 in the second half. Seals pulled down nine of his 13 rebounds over the final two periods.

“It was big for us to crash for the rebounds,” Seals said. “That’s my role on the team. If my shots are not falling, which they did tonight, but if they’re not falling that’s a big thing for me.”

Sierra won three of its last four regular-season contests, the lone setback being a competitive clash ending in favor of runner-up Manteca, 44-41. Five days prior, the Timberwolves also gave VOL champion Central Catholic some trouble before the host Raiders pulled away for the 61-48 win.

They’re seeded 14th for the Sac-Joaquin Section Division III playoffs, which begin today at No. 3 Placer (24-4).