On February 22, Cathedral Academy captured its second consecutive SCISA 2A Boys Basketball State Championship, defeating Andrew Jackson Academy with a convincing score of 73-49. The Generals, under the guidance of Coach Blake Ferguson, ended the season with an impressive 29-12 record, showcasing their skills through rigorous competition against both independent and public-school teams.
The game, held at the SCISA finals in Sumter, saw Cathedral take control early, leading 13-10 after the first quarter. Although Andrew Jackson attempted to slow the pace, the Generals quickly found their rhythm, extending their lead to 28-19 by halftime and dominating the second half. Cathedral's performance was anchored by sophomore Bryce Ward, who led all scorers with 25 points, supported by senior Kaden Whitledge with 15 points and Dominic Felix contributing 11. The team did most of their work inside, capitalizing on their athleticism and quickness rather than relying heavily on three-point shots, converting only three throughout the game.
Coach Ferguson's strategic approach paid off as the Generals executed strong defense and controlled the paint, leading to their third state championship title in four years. Ward’s dynamic playing style kept the crowd engaged, and his highlight plays were pivotal for Cathedral’s victory. Following the championship, Whitledge, Ward, and Gresham earned spots on the All-tournament Team, emphasizing their contributions during the tournament.
While Cathedral celebrated its win, Pinewood Prep's boys' basketball season came to an end on February 19, losing 82-71 to Augusta Christian during the SCISA 4A state semifinals. The Panthers, who boasted a 23-8 record, advanced to the semifinals with hard-fought victories, including a 66-58 win over Wilson Hall earlier. Despite the loss, Pinewood remains optimistic about the coming season, with several key players, including sophomore Tre Green and junior Jayden Alexander, expected to return.
Green led the team this season, averaging 15 points per game, with Alexander contributing impressive statistics as well. Like Cathedral, Pinewood faced several tough challengers, including teams from the 5A South Carolina High School League, which provided valuable experience for the players and laid the foundation for future success.
On February 19, Summerville High’s Green Wave also faced great competition, edging out their rivals Ashley Ridge 61-60 before falling to Ridge View 62-50 on February 22. The playoff atmosphere during the match against Ashley Ridge was electric, with both teams fighting for every point. Following the Green Wave's triumph over Wando, the showdown against Ashley Ridge reignited longstanding rivalry fueled by competitive spirit.
Summerville head coach David Long commended his team's perseverance. "After the loss we had to them a couple of weeks ago during our worst week of the season, being able to battle back and take care of business against three other teams and then come back here and get the W is huge for our guys," he stated. The Green Wave went back to what they did best defensively, managing to contain Ashley Ridge, particularly during key moments of the final quarters.
Senior Jeadon Baskerville emphasized the team's determination, noting, "If you keep bringing energy then good things will happen." Teal led Summerville's scoring with 25 points, but the Green Wave fell just short of the next round after competing valiantly against Ridge View, concluding their season at 15-6.
Meanwhile, individual accomplishments flourished at the state wrestling championships where Fort Dorchester’s Richard Springs made headlines by winning his fourth consecutive state title on February 22. Springs, now part of an elite group never to lose during four appearances at the state tournament, claimed the 5A 126-pound weight class championship by defeating Goose Creek’s Mekye Nelson 21-8.
Other local wrestlers showed promise, as Summerville and Ashley Ridge athletes secured top finishes, with positions ranging from third to placements among the top 4. These achievements contribute not only to individual athlete accolades but also reflect the strength of wrestling programs throughout the region.
The championships concluded, underscoring the passion, hard work, and commitment exhibited by teams and individual athletes across South Carolina this season. From the electrifying basketball playoff encounters to wrestling victories, South Carolina's high school sports scene remains vibrant and competitive as schools prepare for what lies ahead.