CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The Rossview High boys’ basketball team had accomplished so much during the 2023-24 season, including making it the semifinals of the state tournament. However, their season ended on Friday, March 15, following a loss in a defensive battle with Independence High by a score of 53-65.
The game was a war from the start. Both teams took slow, controlled possessions and were able to contain the opponent’s offensive attack. At the half, it stood 25-20, with the Hawks being down at half for the first time since January. Head coach Johnny Jackson gave credit to Independence but knew his team could’ve played better.
“Credit to Independence, they have two D-I guards,” Jackson told Clarksville Now. “We just couldn’t catch a break, and that’s not making excuses, that’s just reality.”
In the second half, Rossview high senior forward Jacob Edwards took over. The mid-range jumper from the free throw served as his sweet spot and in total, he shot 13 of 22 on the day finishing with 30 points and 10 rebounds. Edwards said his time with the Hawks is something he will never forget.
“My 10th grade year is really where I started wanting to be great,” Edwards said. “I looked up to Ty (Butler) and I wanted to be like him. Coach Jackson helped me be the best person I can be, inside and outside of basketball. I’m very grateful for my time here.”
Going into the fourth quarter, the Hawks were only down two, but Independence High had their Mr. Basketball finalist in Jett Montgomery take over the game. Finishing with 23 points, Montgomery was crucial in the Eagles 14-0 run in the middle of the last quarter.
Rossview then had two key players, Quamond Linsey and Edwards, foul out and the undermanned Hawks fell in the end by a score of 65-53.
Rossview High seniors can leave the state tournament with their heads held high, however, as their careers end with being the only team in program history to win a district championship, a region championship, make the state tournament and win a game in state.
“It’s a funny game, this game is about runs, that’s why we love basketball,” Jackson said. “For me personally, I’ve always coached underdogs. I never thought teams before us deserved to be here, just talent wise. Twenty-eight years coaching, and I finally got this taste in my mouth. I’ll never forget it the rest of my life.”
It’s important to note, Rossview had two seniors surpass 1,000 career points during the state tournament as well, Cameryn Ward and Jacob Edwards.
Top scorers
Rossview High: Jacob Edwards – 30 points; Cameryn Ward – 14 points; Landon Hankemeier – 8 points; Jiyair Rose – 1 point.