The James Kenan Tigers delivered a strong all-around performance to defeat the South Columbus Stallions 59–53 in Round 2 of the 3A State Playoffs. In a game filled with momentum swings, clutch free throws, and key defensive stops, the Tigers held off a determined Stallions comeback to advance.
First Quarter: Trading Early Baskets
The Tigers opened the game at the free-throw line after a foul by the Stallions. No. 2 Zamarion Smith stepped to the stripe and converted two of three shots to get the scoring started. The Stallions answered immediately with a layup and followed with another to grab an early edge.
The Tigers responded quickly. No. 5 David Zelaya scored on a layup, and No. 12 Kentrell Morrisey added two made free throws to keep the pressure on. Aggressive defense proved pivotal, as the Tigers forced a steal that led to another foul and two more made free throws from No. 2 Zamarion Smith. Moments later, No. 12 Kentrell Morrisey capitalized on a big steal with a basket.
The Stallions managed to go one-for-two at the line after drawing a foul, but the Tigers continued to attack. No. 1 Eli Avent added a layup, and once again No. 2 Zamarion Smith delivered at the free-throw line, sinking both shots after a Stallions foul. South Columbus stayed within reach with another layup before the quarter came to a close.
Second Quarter: Stallions Rally, Tigers Respond
The Stallions began the second quarter determined to erase the deficit. A quick layup sparked their run, followed by back-to-back steals and baskets that energized their bench. Two made free throws gave the Stallions the lead.
The Tigers answered in kind. No. 1 Eli Avent scored on a layup to even the score at 16–16. The Stallions knocked down a three-pointer, but No. 5 David Zelaya matched it with a three-pointer of his own.
Momentum shifted again when No. 12 Kentrell Morrisey recorded a steal and converted it into points. The Tigers found their rhythm, with No. 12 Kentrell Morrisey adding a layup during a growing run. After another steal, No. 3 Jeremiah Hall was fouled and calmly sank both free throws. No. 2 Zamarion Smith then drained a big three-pointer, prompting a Stallions timeout.
Out of the break, South Columbus managed just one free throw. The Tigers carried their momentum into halftime with a 27–20 lead.
Third Quarter: Tigers Extend the Lead
The Tigers wasted no time in the second half. No. 2 Zamarion Smith opened the third quarter with a three-pointer, setting the tone. A defensive steal led to a basket by No. 5 David Zelaya, and soon after, No. 2 Zamarion Smith knocked down two more free throws.
The Stallions finally got on the board with two made free throws and later added another pair after drawing a foul. They capitalized on a steal with a layup to cut into the deficit, but the Tigers continued to respond.
No. 12 Kentrell Morrisey added a layup, and No. 2 Zamarion Smith once again converted both free throws after a Stallions foul. South Columbus hit a key three-pointer to stay within striking distance, while No. 3 Jeremiah Hall added one of two from the line to close out the quarter.
Fourth Quarter: Tigers Hold Off the Comeback
In the final quarter, the Tigers stayed composed. No. 12 Kentrell Morrisey began the scoring with two made free throws. The Stallions answered with a layup, but No. 2 Zamarion Smith countered with two more shots from the line.
A clutch steal led to a fast-break finish by No. 4, extending the Tigers’ advantage. South Columbus responded with a big three-pointer, but No. 11 Mari Graham answered with a layup to maintain control.
The Stallions mounted one last comeback attempt, scoring quickly and trimming the lead to six points. No. 12 Kentrell Morrisey added one of two free throws, and despite another quick Stallions score, the Tigers continued to execute down the stretch. A late layup by No. 2 Zamarion Smith helped seal the victory as James Kenan held off the rally.
Final Score: James Kenan Tigers 59, South Columbus Stallions 53
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