North Alabama high schools to battle for Class 1A Boys state championship

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WAFF) - The Alabama High School Basketball State Tournament tipped off in Birmingham on Monday with 15 North Alabama high schools set to compete throughout the week.

In the Class 1A boys semifinal games, Covenant Christian (30-3) advanced to the title game for the second-straight season under head coach Brett Waldrep.

“I’m really proud of the way we played, especially defensively,” Waldrep said. “If we continue to do that, we have a chance.”

The Eagles will face Oakwood Academy, who will play in the program’s first-ever state championship game. The Mustangs defeated Autaugaville, 52-44.

“It’s a feeling that’s really indescribable,” Mustangs head coach Melvin Allen said. “I had chills, almost tears that this is a reality. We have the opportunity to bring a state championship back to our small school.”

Johnathan Walden led Oakwood with 14 points and eight rebounds, and David Still added 12 points. Camden Edwards contributed 10 points, seven rebounds and three steals.

In the Class 2A girls semifinals, Mars Hill (25-5), coached by Flora Sweatt, built a 22-point halftime lead and claimed a 70-50 victory over Geneva County.

“What’s special about our team is any of them can score at any time,” Sweatt said. “I feel like you have a lot of threats out there.”

Emma Kate Wright scored 20 of her 22 points in the first half, and seventh-grader Belle Hill filled the stat sheet with 19 points, 14 rebounds, six assists and four steals. Kadence Rolston added 12 points, seven rebounds and three steals.

Click Here to Subscribe on YouTube: Watch the latest WAFF 48 news, sports & weather videos on our YouTube channel!

Copyright 2023 WAFF. All rights reserved.