FLORENCE CENTER: Lexington capped off its brilliant season with a 67-48 win over Byrnes in the 5A State Championship Game, Friday.
Although much of the talk surrounding the game centered on Texas signee and 5A Player of the Year Cam Scott, it was Jaxon Prunty that led the Wildcats in scoring and sparked his team to an early lead. Scott had his moments, to be sure, showcasing the skills that made the 6’6″ senior such a coveted prospect. But Prunty, an all-state swingman, more than pulled his weight and scored 23 points. Scott heated up the second half and finished with 21 points, 12 rebounds and four steals. Scott also treated the crowd to a dazzling spin move and a pair of open-court dunks.
Byrnes senior guard Will Fowler tried to keep his team close, playing with a laser focus and a fiery intensity. Fowler, also an all-state selection, hit 11 of his 19 shots and scored 26 points, many of which came after he stepped through double teams on his way to the lane. Fowler’s teammates couldn’t match his output, shooting a combined 7 of 40 from the field. Lexington’s length was a problem, forcing the Rebels out of their comfort zone and limiting open looks.
When asked about going wire-to-wire as the state’s no. 1 team, Wildcats head coach Elliott Pope quipped, “I get why (Dorman head coach) Thomas Ryan likes doing it so much. It’s a great feeling.”
Lexington Stats
Byrnes Stats
Lexington head coach Elliott Pope
5A Girls State Championship
Sumter took home the 5A Girls State Championship with a 60-42 victory over Rock Hill in Florence, Friday. Sumter’s defense was smothering, holding Rock Hill to 24% shooting. It’s the Gamecocks first state title since 1984 and they did it in style, finishing the season a perfect 25-0.
Sumter Stats
Rock Hill Stats
