Patriots lost in overtime; finish as state-runner up

The Class 5A State Championship game between Ellender and Westgate resembled more of a roller-coaster ride than a basketball game.

When it appeared either team would pull away, the other always had an answer. Late in the game, it appeared the Patriots had thrown the final blow when Walter Jones stole the ball and passed it to Jamal Nixon to put Ellender ahead 66-64 with 39 seconds remaining.

However, Westgate’s Akimo Hypolite answered with a quick layup at the 30 second mark.

The Patriots got the final shot of regulation, but Jamal Nixon’s short jumper was short, and the teams went into overtime tied 66-66.

From there, Westgate’s superiority on the boards took over, and the Tigers outscored Ellender in overtime to win the state championship 75-70.

Sterling Jones led all scorers with 27 points, and Walter Jones added 15. But the story of the game was Westgate’s rebounding advantage. The Tigers out-rebounded Ellender 63-40, in large part because of 29 offensive rebounds.

In all, Westgate had 28 second-chance points.

For the Tigers, Raymon Jones led had 18 points and 15 rebounds, while Tyrun Walker added 12 points and 18 rebounds.

With the Patriots trailing 40-36 at halftime, the started the third quarter with a rally that gave them a 47-42 lead.

Westgate answered to take a 47-46 lead, and the teams traded baskets before the Patriots led 50-49 after three quarters.

The fourth quarter was equally evenly matched, with neither team able to separate themselves.

In overtime, Ellender took a 69-66 lead, but the Tigers outscored them 9-1 to finish off the extra period and claim the championship.

Ellender finished the year 38-3, while Westgate finished 32-8.