St. Thomas Aquinas boys basketball team clinched the Class 6A state title with a thrilling 71-63 comeback victory over Orlando Evans. Coach Julius Sandi was emotional as his team erased a 16-point deficit for their second state championship in school history. Key players D.J. Sandi, K.J. Sandi, Clarence Westbrook, and D.J. Wimbley Jr. helped secure the win in a remarkable turnaround. The Raiders closed the game with a 26-11 run, stunning the Trojans and securing the historic win. Sandi’s sons played a crucial role in the victory, continuing a family legacy of basketball success.
In Class 4A, Stranahan clinched their fourth state championship in school history with a dramatic 63-62 victory over St. Petersburg Gibbs. Junior Isaiah Brown’s crucial put-back in the waning seconds sealed the win for the Dragons, who overcame adversity throughout the season to claim the title. Damari Foster, Christian Yeargin, and Brown were instrumental in the comeback victory, showcasing resilience and determination on the court.
Blanche Ely secured their ninth state championship, a Broward County record, with a 44-38 win over Ponte Vedra. Kaleb Corbitt led the Tigers to victory despite struggling from the 3-point line, highlighting the team’s defensive prowess and ability to make critical plays when it mattered most.
Meanwhile, American Heritage’s girls’ basketball team fell short in the Class 4A state final against Melbourne Palm Bay, ending their bid for a seventh championship in nine years. Despite a strong performance, turnovers proved costly for the Patriots as they were outscored in the final quarter, ultimately conceding the title to Palm Bay. Senior Dezuray McGill and junior Jasleen Green led the Patriots in scoring, but ultimately couldn’t overcome Palm Bay’s pressure defense.
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