Only Two Area Teams Remain in the Boys’ Basketball State Tournament

As the Florida high school’s boys’ basketball edges closer to the state championship, the only area teams remaining are Hawthorne and Williston.

Hawthorne Prevails – What’s Next?

Hawthorne is looking to build on their momentum coming from an electric victory over Newberry.

In a tightly contested game, the Wildcats were able to secure the win defeating Newberry by a score of 43-41. Sophomore CJ Ingram, son of former Gators tight end Cornelius Ingram, sunk two game-winning free throws with just seconds remaining in the fourth.

Ingram put up dazzling numbers, recording a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds. His dominance extended over to the defensive end of the game as well. Ingram recorded an impressive two steals and two blocks.

Other key contributors for the Wildcats were junior Isaac Taplis who recorded 12 points, and senior Tyler Jefferson who secured eight boards.

Hawthorne will clash with the Chipley Tigers in a state championship semi-final match on Wednesday at 8 p.m.

CJ Ingram with the game winning free throw!! Ice water flows through this kid’s veins!! pic.twitter.com/sz4M9jehIa

— Alex Washburn (@alex_washburn20) February 22, 2023

Williston Edges Out Wildwood

Williston’s season has been anything but unsuccessful. Finishing with a record of 18-7, the Red Devils showed proficiency on both sides of the floor throughout the entirety of the season.

The Red Devils look to survive and advance Wednesday at 6 p.m. facing off against Franklin County.

Heading into their game against the Seahawks, the Red Devils are red hot. Williston has won six in a row and is looking to extend that streak to seven.

Williston must perform almost perfectly on both sides of the ball to secure this win. The Red Devils will have to do anything in their power to stop Franklin County’s fire-powered offense, all while feeling the stifling pressure of the Seahawk’s defense.

Williston senior Greg Maxwell looks to play a key role in this upcoming game for his team, as he has all season. Maxwell is coming off of a star-studded performance, putting up 25 points and 12 rebounds, topping it off with an emphatic slam in the fourth.

25 points and 12 rebounds for 2023 senior leader @iamgregmaxwell and none bigger than this one in the 4th!!!! pic.twitter.com/2nQyo1miVJ

— WillistonHoops (@WillistonHoops) February 22, 2023

1A Area Final?

If Hawthorne and Williston can both win their semi-final matchups, they would meet in this year’s Class 1A State Championship. This contest would take place this Friday at 7 p.m. It would be the first time these two teams square off against each other, this season.

Schedule

Williston vs. Franklin County – 3/1 at 6 p.m.

Hawthorne vs. Chipley – 3/1 at 8 p.m.

State Championship – 3/3 at 7 p.m.