![Downey Christian's Julian Newman (4) goes up for a shot...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
Downey Christian's Julian Newman (4) goes up for a shot in front of Chaminade-Madonna's Justin Palacios (15) during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian's Anterrius Washington (top) falls over North Florida...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian's Anterrius Washington (top) falls over North Florida player Chandon Kelly (bottom) during the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 72-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando Christian Prep versus St. John Paul II at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. St. John Paul II won the game 50-48 in overtime to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian fans celebrate after winning the FHSAA Class...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian fans celebrate after winning the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 71-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Oviedo player Braden Denny (20), along with Seminole players Jovaughn...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Oviedo player Braden Denny (20), along with Seminole players Jovaughn Douglas (32) and Brian Brooks (30) leap for a rebound during the Seminole High at Oviedo High School boys basketball game on Friday, January 11, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![The score was 3-0 in favor of Oak Ridge at...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
The score was 3-0 in favor of Oak Ridge at halftime during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian player Danny Rivera shoots during the FHSAA...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian player Danny Rivera shoots during the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 72-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian player Bryce Street (1) shoots during the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian player Bryce Street (1) shoots during the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 72-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Evans player Andy Antoine scores during the Class 9A semifinal...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Evans player Andy Antoine scores during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Windermere player Elliott Yorke (left) reaches for a rebound with...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Windermere player Elliott Yorke (left) reaches for a rebound with Blanche Ely player Joshua Scott (15) during the Class 8A semifinal state basketball game of Windermere High versus Blanche Ely at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 71-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Oak Ridge player C.J. Walker (top) shoots over Boone players...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Oak Ridge player C.J. Walker (top) shoots over Boone players Shukiou Sprauve (24) and Robert Soto (0) during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian player Jajuan Preaster (10) scores over North...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian player Jajuan Preaster (10) scores over North Florida player Damir Brkljoca (11) during the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 72-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Evans player Jyshaun Melvin (24) looks to pass during the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Evans player Jyshaun Melvin (24) looks to pass during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian player Danny Rivera celebrates after winning the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian player Danny Rivera celebrates after winning the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 71-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![OCP player Eric Butler is dejected after losing the FHSAA...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
OCP player Eric Butler is dejected after losing the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando Christian Prep versus St. John Paul II at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. St. John Paul II won the game 50-48 in overtime to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![The First Academy's Kanye Jones (5) goes up for a...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
The First Academy's Kanye Jones (5) goes up for a shot between Seffner Christian's Willie Jones (4), Isaiah Reed (10) and Cornelius Bobo, right, during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Wellington coach Matt Colin coaches during the Class 9A semifinal...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Wellington coach Matt Colin coaches during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![The First Academy's Alex Shields (11) goes up for a...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
The First Academy's Alex Shields (11) goes up for a shot between Seffner Christian's Isaiah Reed (10) and Mike Trigg (3) during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Osceola head coach Nathan Alexander and players celebrate after winning...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Osceola head coach Nathan Alexander and players celebrate after winning the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Osceola High versus South Miami at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. Osceola won the game 62-54. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![The First Academy's Sean Johnson goes up for a shot...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
The First Academy's Sean Johnson goes up for a shot in front of Seffner Christian's Willie Jones (4) during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 71-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![St. John Paul II player Allan Jeanne-Rose (10) screams in...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
St. John Paul II player Allan Jeanne-Rose (10) screams in celebration after he threw down a dramatic slam dunk to win the game during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando Christian Prep versus St. John Paul II at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. St. John Paul II won the game 50-48 in overtime to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![OCP player Ven Allen Lubin (white jersey) it hit in...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
OCP player Ven Allen Lubin (white jersey) it hit in the face as he blocks the shot of John Paul player Allan Jeanne-Rose (behind) during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando Christian Prep versus St. John Paul II at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. St. John Paul II won the game 50-48 in overtime to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian player Jordan Preaster (2) scores during the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian player Jordan Preaster (2) scores during the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 72-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![OCP player Eric Butler (5) is fouled by John Paul...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
OCP player Eric Butler (5) is fouled by John Paul player Patrick Copenhaver (3) during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando Christian Prep versus St. John Paul II at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. St. John Paul II won the game 50-48 in overtime to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![The First Academy's Denzel Aberdeen (2) passes the ball in...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
The First Academy's Denzel Aberdeen (2) passes the ball in front of Seffner Christian's Mike Trigg, right, during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Seffner Christian's Willie Jones (4) grabs a rebound in front...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
Seffner Christian's Willie Jones (4) grabs a rebound in front of Khalil Waleed (22) and The First Academy's Reagan Flatt (15) during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 71-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![The First Academy's Jeremiah Bannister (32) blocks a shot by...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
The First Academy's Jeremiah Bannister (32) blocks a shot by Seffner Christian's Blake Bartram (32), second from right, during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Windermere guard Trey Moss (left) and Blanche Ely forward Lance...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Windermere guard Trey Moss (left) and Blanche Ely forward Lance Rainer (25) battle for the ball during the Class 8A semifinal state basketball game of Windermere High versus Blanche Ely at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Windermere guard Dante Love (left) tries to pass over Blanche...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Windermere guard Dante Love (left) tries to pass over Blanche Ely player Lamont Evans (33) during the Class 8A semifinal state basketball game of Windermere High versus Blanche Ely at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Osceola player Josh Marte (bottom) and South Miami player Lee...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Osceola player Josh Marte (bottom) and South Miami player Lee Flenor (top) battle for the ball during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Osceola High versus South Miami at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Seminole guard Jovaughn Douglas (32) reaches in for a rebound...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Seminole guard Jovaughn Douglas (32) reaches in for a rebound during the Seminole High at Oviedo High School boys basketball game on Friday, January 11, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Evans player Ernest Cox (1) tries to keep the ball...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Evans player Ernest Cox (1) tries to keep the ball from Wellington players Jagger Ruiz (33) and Chris Walker (40) during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Oak Ridge players Kyle Profil (21) and Niven Glover (2)...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Oak Ridge players Kyle Profil (21) and Niven Glover (2) battle Boone players Marlon Allen (1) and Matthew Sokol (23) during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Wellington player Jagger Ruiz celebrates during the Class 9A semifinal...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Wellington player Jagger Ruiz celebrates during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. Wellington won the game 50-32. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![St. John Paul II player Allan Jeanne-Rose (10) screams in...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
St. John Paul II player Allan Jeanne-Rose (10) screams in celebration after he threw down a dramatic slam dunk with time expiring to win the game during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando Christian Prep versus St. John Paul II at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. St. John Paul II won the game 50-48 in overtime to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![OCP player Terrance Reese (0) shoots a three point shot...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
OCP player Terrance Reese (0) shoots a three point shot during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando Christian Prep versus St. John Paul II at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. St. John Paul II won the game 50-48 in overtime to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![The First Academy's Caleb Henry (20) and Alex Shields (11)...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
The First Academy's Caleb Henry (20) and Alex Shields (11) defend against Seffner Christian's Mike Trigg (3) during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Boone players celebrate during the Oak Ridge at Boone High...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Boone players celebrate during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Wellington players celebrate after winning the Class 9A semifinal state...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Wellington players celebrate after winning the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. Wellington won the game 50-32. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 71-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![St. John Paul II player Allan Jeanne-Rose (10) screams in...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
St. John Paul II player Allan Jeanne-Rose (10) screams in celebration after he threw down a dramatic slam dunk to win the game during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando Christian Prep versus St. John Paul II at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. St. John Paul II won the game 50-48 in overtime to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Oviedo player Mamush Galloway scores during the Seminole High at...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Oviedo player Mamush Galloway scores during the Seminole High at Oviedo High School boys basketball game on Friday, January 11, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Seminole player Mari Henderson (12) blocks the shot of Oviedo...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Seminole player Mari Henderson (12) blocks the shot of Oviedo player Amontae Bachelder (21) during the Seminole High at Oviedo High School boys basketball game on Friday, January 11, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Osceola guard isaiah Palermo (1) drives through defenders during the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Osceola guard isaiah Palermo (1) drives through defenders during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Osceola High versus South Miami at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 71-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Oviedo head coach Jason Vallery coaches players during the Seminole...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Oviedo head coach Jason Vallery coaches players during the Seminole High at Oviedo High School boys basketball game on Friday, January 11, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Evans coach Lonza Morgan coaches during the Class 9A semifinal...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Evans coach Lonza Morgan coaches during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Blanche Ely player Malachi Hazelton celebrates after winning the Class...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Blanche Ely player Malachi Hazelton celebrates after winning the Class 8A semifinal state basketball game of Windermere High versus Blanche Ely at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. Blanche Ely won the game 56-54. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![The First Academy's Kam Summers (4) goes up for a...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
The First Academy's Kam Summers (4) goes up for a shot in front of Seffner Christian's Cornelius Bobo (23) during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 71-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 71-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![OCP head coach Treig Burke coaches during the FHSAA Class...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
OCP head coach Treig Burke coaches during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando Christian Prep versus St. John Paul II at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. St. John Paul II won the game 50-48 in overtime to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Osceola guard Armani Thomas (11) passes during the Class 9A...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Osceola guard Armani Thomas (11) passes during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Osceola High versus South Miami at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Boone coach David Martinson yells during the Oak Ridge at...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Boone coach David Martinson yells during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![St. John Paul II player Allan Jeanne-Rose (10) screams in...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
St. John Paul II player Allan Jeanne-Rose (10) screams in celebration as he throws down a dramatic slam dunk with time expiring to win the game during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando Christian Prep versus St. John Paul II at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. St. John Paul II won the game 50-48 in overtime to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Blanche Ely fans cheer during the Class 8A semifinal state...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Blanche Ely fans cheer during the Class 8A semifinal state basketball game of Windermere High versus Blanche Ely at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. Blanche Ely won the game 56-54. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Boone player Shukiou Sprauve (white jersey) scores under Oak Ridge...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Boone player Shukiou Sprauve (white jersey) scores under Oak Ridge player Niven Glover (2) during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Osceola guard Diwun Black (4) catches a pass over South...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Osceola guard Diwun Black (4) catches a pass over South Miami guard Toru Dean (3) during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Osceola High versus South Miami at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. Osceola won the game 62-54. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![OCP player Ven Allen Lubin (white jersey) it hit in...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
OCP player Ven Allen Lubin (white jersey) it hit in the face as he blocks the shot of John Paul player Allan Jeanne-Rose (behind) during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando Christian Prep versus St. John Paul II at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. St. John Paul II won the game 50-48 in overtime to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Fans cheer during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Fans cheer during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Windermere guard Dakota Rivers (1) misses a slam dunk beside...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Windermere guard Dakota Rivers (1) misses a slam dunk beside Blanche Ely player Tyrecke Francois (0) during the Class 8A semifinal state basketball game of Windermere High versus Blanche Ely at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. Blanche Ely won the game 56-54. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Seffner Christian's Willie Jones (4) goes up for a shot...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
Seffner Christian's Willie Jones (4) goes up for a shot against The First Academy's Jeremiah Bannister, right, during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Boone player Robert Soto holds the ball as Boone stalled...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Boone player Robert Soto holds the ball as Boone stalled nearly the entire first half during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian player Bryce Street shoots during the FHSAA...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian player Bryce Street shoots during the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 72-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 71-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Oviedo players cheer during the Seminole High at Oviedo High...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Oviedo players cheer during the Seminole High at Oviedo High School boys basketball game on Friday, January 11, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Wellington coach Matt Colin coaches players during the Class 9A...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Wellington coach Matt Colin coaches players during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 71-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Osceola cheerleaders cheer during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Osceola cheerleaders cheer during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Osceola High versus South Miami at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. Osceola won the game 62-54. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Evans player Deshaun Osbourne (22) is fouled by Wellington player...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Evans player Deshaun Osbourne (22) is fouled by Wellington player De'ante Perez (24) during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Blanche Ely player Malachi Hazelton (24) and others celebrate after...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Blanche Ely player Malachi Hazelton (24) and others celebrate after winning the Class 8A semifinal state basketball game of Windermere High versus Blanche Ely at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. Blanche Ely won the game 56-54. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![The First Academy's Jeremiah Bannister (32) goes up for a...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
The First Academy's Jeremiah Bannister (32) goes up for a shot between Seffner Christian's Mike Trigg (3) and Cornelius Bobo (23) during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian player Riley Kugel (5) leaps for a...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian player Riley Kugel (5) leaps for a rebound during the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 72-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Downey Christian's Eduardo Peralta (21) passes the ball after gaining...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
Downey Christian's Eduardo Peralta (21) passes the ball after gaining control of a loose ball against Chaminade-Madonna during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Oviedo player Mamush Galloway (white jersey) looks to pass over...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Oviedo player Mamush Galloway (white jersey) looks to pass over Seminole players Mari Henderson (12), O'shae Baker (10), and Amaire Perkins (11) during the Seminole High at Oviedo High School boys basketball game on Friday, January 11, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![OCP fans react during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
OCP fans react during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando Christian Prep versus St. John Paul II at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. St. John Paul II won the game 50-48 in overtime to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Seminole head coach Sylvester Wynn coaches players during the Seminole...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Seminole head coach Sylvester Wynn coaches players during the Seminole High at Oviedo High School boys basketball game on Friday, January 11, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Windermere guard Trey Moss (11) reaches for a rebound during...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Windermere guard Trey Moss (11) reaches for a rebound during the Class 8A semifinal state basketball game of Windermere High versus Blanche Ely at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Windermere coach Mark Griseck coaches during the Class 8A semifinal...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Windermere coach Mark Griseck coaches during the Class 8A semifinal state basketball game of Windermere High versus Blanche Ely at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian player Jordan Preaster (top) scores over North...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian player Jordan Preaster (top) scores over North Florida player Damir Brkljoca (left) during the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 72-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Oak Ridge coach Alex Jackson coaches during the Oak Ridge...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Oak Ridge coach Alex Jackson coaches during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Downey Christian's Eduardo Peralta (21) goes up for a shot...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
Downey Christian's Eduardo Peralta (21) goes up for a shot between Chaminade-Madonna's Toumani Camara, left, and Jarrett Karant (2) during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Osceola guard Josh Marte celebrates during the Class 9A semifinal...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Osceola guard Josh Marte celebrates during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Osceola High versus South Miami at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. Osceola won the game 62-54. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Boone High's Marlon Allen (1) celebrates after winning the Oak...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Boone High's Marlon Allen (1) celebrates after winning the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Wellington player Linton Brown scores during the Class 9A semifinal...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Wellington player Linton Brown scores during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Oak Ridge players Kyle Profil (21) and C.J. Walker (45)...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Oak Ridge players Kyle Profil (21) and C.J. Walker (45) try to stop Boone player Marlon Allen (1) during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![The First Academy's Kam Summers (4) goes up for a...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
The First Academy's Kam Summers (4) goes up for a shot in front of Seffner Christian's Khalil Waleed (22) during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Evans player Clarence Cummings (3) stops Wellington player Chris Walker...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Evans player Clarence Cummings (3) stops Wellington player Chris Walker (40) during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Evans player Andy Antoine passes during the Class 9A semifinal...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Evans player Andy Antoine passes during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Blanche Ely player Malachi Hazelton shoots the game-winning free throws...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Blanche Ely player Malachi Hazelton shoots the game-winning free throws to win the Class 8A semifinal state basketball game of Windermere High versus Blanche Ely at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. Blanche Ely won the game 56-54. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![The First Academy's Jeremiah Bannister (32) grabs a rebound in...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
The First Academy's Jeremiah Bannister (32) grabs a rebound in front of Seffner Christian's Cornelius Bobo, left, during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Wellington player Jagger Ruiz (33) scores under Evans player Andy...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Wellington player Jagger Ruiz (33) scores under Evans player Andy Antoine (21) during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Oak Ridge player Niven Glover (top) shoots over Boone player...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Oak Ridge player Niven Glover (top) shoots over Boone player Robert Soto (0) during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Oak Ridge player Kaleb Coleman (24) tries to get the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Oak Ridge player Kaleb Coleman (24) tries to get the ball from Boone player Matthew Sokol (23) during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Downey Christian's Emmanuel Maldonado (3) drives to the basket in...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
Downey Christian's Emmanuel Maldonado (3) drives to the basket in front of Chaminade-Madonna's Justin Palacios (15) during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![The First Academy's Nnamdi Nwaogwugwu (3) goes up for a...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
The First Academy's Nnamdi Nwaogwugwu (3) goes up for a shot in front of Seffner Christian's Isaiah Reed (10) during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Seminole player Brian Brooks (bottom) tries to stop Oviedo player...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Seminole player Brian Brooks (bottom) tries to stop Oviedo player James Groetsch (behind) during the Seminole High at Oviedo High School boys basketball game on Friday, January 11, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Oak Ridge player C.J. Walker smiles during the Oak Ridge...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Oak Ridge player C.J. Walker smiles during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Downey Christian's Julian Newman (4) sets up for a shot...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
Downey Christian's Julian Newman (4) sets up for a shot in front of Chaminade-Madonna's Justin Palacios (15) during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian player Jordan Preaster (2) scores over North...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian player Jordan Preaster (2) scores over North Florida player Damir Brkljoca (11) during the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 72-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Osceola guard Diwun Black grabs a pass during the Class...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Osceola guard Diwun Black grabs a pass during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Osceola High versus South Miami at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. Osceola won the game 62-54. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian player Jordan Preaster celebrates after winning the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian player Jordan Preaster celebrates after winning the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 71-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Oak Ridge player Niven Glover (20 shoots over Boone player...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Oak Ridge player Niven Glover (20 shoots over Boone player Robert Soto (bottom) during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Downey Christian's Carlos Felix (11) goes up for a shot...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
Downey Christian's Carlos Felix (11) goes up for a shot in front of Chaminade-Madonna's Johnny O'Neil (10) during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian players and coaches celebrate after winning the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 71-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Blanche Ely coach Melvin Randall coaches player Malachi Hazelton (right)...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Blanche Ely coach Melvin Randall coaches player Malachi Hazelton (right) during the Class 8A semifinal state basketball game of Windermere High versus Blanche Ely at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Wellington players celebrate during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Wellington players celebrate during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Central Florida Christian coach Jonathan McClintock yells during the FHSAA...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Central Florida Christian coach Jonathan McClintock yells during the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 72-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![The First Academy's Chris Mayberry calls out instructions against Seffner...]()
Phelan M. Ebenhack / Orlando Sentinel
The First Academy's Chris Mayberry calls out instructions against Seffner Christian during the City Beautiful Invitational high school basketball tournament Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack for the Orlando Sentinel)
![St. John Paul II player Allan Jeanne-Rose (10) screams in...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
St. John Paul II player Allan Jeanne-Rose (10) screams in celebration after he threw down a dramatic slam dunk with time expiring to win the game during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando Christian Prep versus St. John Paul II at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. St. John Paul II won the game 50-48 in overtime to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![OCP player Ven Allen Lubin (2) scores during the FHSAA...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
OCP player Ven Allen Lubin (2) scores during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando Christian Prep versus St. John Paul II at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. St. John Paul II won the game 50-48 in overtime to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Windermere coach Mark Griseck coaches during the Class 8A semifinal...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Windermere coach Mark Griseck coaches during the Class 8A semifinal state basketball game of Windermere High versus Blanche Ely at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Cheerleaders cheer during the Seminole High at Oviedo High School...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Cheerleaders cheer during the Seminole High at Oviedo High School boys basketball game on Friday, January 11, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Fans cheer during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Fans cheer during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Seminole player Brian Brooks reaches for a rebound during the...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Seminole player Brian Brooks reaches for a rebound during the Seminole High at Oviedo High School boys basketball game on Friday, January 11, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Osceola coach Nathan Alexander reacts during the Class 9A semifinal...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Osceola coach Nathan Alexander reacts during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Osceola High versus South Miami at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. Osceola won the game 62-54. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![CFCA senior Jordan Preaster scored 30 points in Tuesday's championship...]()
Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel
CFCA senior Jordan Preaster scored 30 points in Tuesday's championship game after being limited due to foul trouble in the semifinal.
![OCP player Ven Allen Lubin (left) is fouled by John...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
OCP player Ven Allen Lubin (left) is fouled by John Paul player Allan Jeanne-Rose (10) during the FHSAA Class 3A state championship game of Orlando Christian Prep versus St. John Paul II at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. St. John Paul II won the game 50-48 in overtime to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Evans forward Andy Antoine (21) and Wellington player Chris Walker...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Evans forward Andy Antoine (21) and Wellington player Chris Walker (40) tip off during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Windermere player Carter Zavada (5) passes behind his back around...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Windermere player Carter Zavada (5) passes behind his back around Blanche Ely player Joshua Scott (15) during the Class 8A semifinal state basketball game of Windermere High versus Blanche Ely at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Osceola guard Isaiah Palermo scores during the Class 9A semifinal...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Osceola guard Isaiah Palermo scores during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Osceola High versus South Miami at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Fans cheer during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Fans cheer during the Oak Ridge at Boone High basketball game on Thursday, January 10, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Osceola coach Nathan Alexander coaches players during the Class 9A...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Osceola coach Nathan Alexander coaches players during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Osceola High versus South Miami at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Windermere center Dakota Rivers slam dunks during the Class 8A...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Windermere center Dakota Rivers slam dunks during the Class 8A semifinal state basketball game of Windermere High versus Blanche Ely at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Fans cheer during the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Fans cheer during the FHSAA Class 2A state championship game of Central Florida Christian Academy versus North Florida Educational at the Lakeland Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Central Florida Christian won the game 72-67 to claim the state championship. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Evans coach Lonza Morgan coaches during the Class 9A semifinal...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Evans coach Lonza Morgan coaches during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. Wellington won the game 50-32. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Wellington forward Trey Perry scores during the Class 9A semifinal...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Wellington forward Trey Perry scores during the Class 9A semifinal state basketball game of Evans High versus Wellington at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
![Windermere center Dakota Rivers slam dunks during the Class 8A...]()
Stephen M. Dowell / Orlando Sentinel
Windermere center Dakota Rivers slam dunks during the Class 8A semifinal state basketball game of Windermere High versus Blanche Ely at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland on Friday, March 8, 2019. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
A season that began with some discouraging losses against top competition ended in triumph and jubilation for the Central Florida Christian Academy boys basketball team.
The Eagles, who were 5-9 and not ranked among the area’s top 16 teams at one point, completed their comeback with a 71-67 victory over North Florida Educational Institute of Jacksonville in Tuesday’s Class 2A state championship game in Lakeland.
The victory gave CFCA its first state championship in any sport since it won back-to-back girls softball titles in 2000 and 2001.
“This is the culmination of five years of hard work,” fifth-year CFCA head coach Jonathan McClintock said. “I’m seeing lots of faces and families that have enabled us to experience this moment. God’s goodness to us is remarkable.”
Stellar seniors Jordan Preaster and Bryce Street combined for 55 points as the Eagles (21-10) finished on a 15-game winning streak.
CFCA’S early setbacks included losses to the likes of Class 9A Apopka and 8A Windermere, which plays in a state semifinal on Friday at Lakeland’s RP Funding Center.
“I think those losses kinda helped us in a weird way,” Street said. “It kind of humbled us and showed us we’ve still got work to do. We came together.”
Street, a 6-foot senior still who hopes to solidify his college plans soon, made four of his six 3-point shot attempts and totaled 25 points.
Preaster, a 6-foot-5 Bethune-Cookman signee, led CFCA with 30 points and added 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals.
Anterrius Washington had 15 points and 7 of CFCA’s 13 steals. He Preaster and Street scored 70 of their team’s 72 points but McClintock said his team was more than a three-man show.
“We don’t play three on five,” McClintock said with a wry smile in the postgame press conference. “Guys like Danny Rivera and Jajuan Preaster screened for [Preaster, Street and Washington]. Guys like Reece [Gustafson] get them the ball on time and on target.”
CFCA, which lost to state champ Miami Christian in a semifinal a year ago, let an 18-point fourth-quarter lead dwindle to four in the final minute but held off the charge by NFEI (16-12).
Preaster, a prime candidate for the 2A state player-of-the-year honors, was saddled with three fouls early and played only 21 minutes in his team’s 59-44 semifinal victory over Crossroad Academy of Quincy on Monday. He was limited to 10 points with only six shot attempts in that game.
On Tuesday he was unstoppable at times.
CFCA trailed 5-0 early. The Eagles tied the game 8-8 on a 3-point shot by Street and went ahead 11-9 when Street snagged a loose-ball offensive rebound and turned it into a 3-point play.
Preaster then scored seven straight CFCA points, including a 3-point shot and an acrobatic lefthanded fastbreak finish as the Eagles opened a 24-17 lead.
Preaster scored 10 of CFCA’s first 12 third quarter points — two on a length-of-the-court drive in which he wrapped a dribble around his back and weaved through three defenders to get to the rim. He upped the Eagles’ lead to 51-41 by rising up to nail a jumper over a defender for the last score of that period.
“My coaches always tell me keep attacking,” Preaster said.
Madison tops Wildwood in OT: Madison County, with 11 players who were on its football team that won a rural division championship in Orlando in December, rallied to stun Wildwood in the Class 1A basketball championship game.
The Cowboys (26-3) won 62-60 after Wildwood’s junior standout, Marcus Niblack, was called for a technical foul after he missed a driving shot attempt with 4.4 seconds to go in a tie game. Vincenta Mitchell made the two ensuing free throws for the margin of victory for Madison, which trailed by 13 in the third quarter.
Mitchell had 20 points and FSU football signee Travis Jay scored 16 for Madison.
Niblack and sophomore guard Alfred Corbin both scored 18 for Wildwood, which won the 2018 state title.
Wildwood finished 18-13 with most of its top players due to come back.
Carey may be sidelined: Duke recruit Vernon Carey Jr., a 6-foot-10, 275-pound Florida Mr. Basketball favorite, may not play for 5A defending state champ University School (25-4) of Fort Lauderdale in its semifinal game against Villages Charter (23-7) on Thursday.
Carey, a five-star prospect, suffered an ankle injury in a 39-36 region final victory over Miami Westminster Christian. He was not listed by coach Jim Carr as a starter for the 4 p.m. game vs. a Villages team led by UF signee Tre Mann, a 6-3 guard who is a top-30 national prospect.
The Class 4A, 5A and 6A semifinals are Thursday, leading to Friday finals in Lakeland.
