Wilson Prep Claim 1A State Champs Again

Wilson Prep claimed its third N.C. High School Athletic Association 1A state championship in four years in a thrilling showdown at the Joel Coliseum on Friday afternoon. The Tigers emerged victorious with a 65-63 comeback win over Corvian Community, a game that will be etched in the memories of both teams for years to come.

The defining moment of the game came when Wilson Prep's Leslie Minter sunk three crucial free throws with less than a second remaining, sealing the victory for his team. The game took a dramatic turn as Minter was fouled while attempting a potentially game-winning three-point shot, ultimately leading to the Tigers' triumph.

Corvian Community, who had won 18 consecutive games leading up to the championship matchup, found themselves ahead by a point with less than four seconds left before the pivotal foul was called. Despite a valiant effort by Corvian, it was Wilson Prep who emerged victorious, showcasing their resilience and determination throughout the contest.

In a post-game interview, Wilson Prep's Minter reflected on the critical moment, stating, "We shoot free throws in practice every day, so I thought back to practice and ended the game."

Corvian Community's head coach Ron Murphy expressed his disappointment at the outcome, acknowledging that his team had battled hard but fell short in the final moments. Despite the loss, Murphy commended his players for their relentless effort and expressed his desire to improve for future situations.

While free-throw shooting played a significant role in the outcome of the game, with Corvian struggling from the line, Murphy remained optimistic about his team's potential moving forward. Despite the loss, Corvian Community showcased their resilience and determination, proving themselves as a formidable opponent throughout the season.

Ultimately, Wilson Prep's victory in the championship game will be remembered as a testament to their ability to overcome adversity and deliver a stunning performance when it mattered most. The Tigers' triumph serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination that defines high school athletics at its finest.