Hilton Head Christian Girls make it five state titles in a row

SUMTER, SOUTH CAROLINA – Hilton Head Christian’s reign continues.

The Eagles captured their fifth consecutive state title after defeating Shannon Forest, 67-38, in Friday night’s SCISA 3A championship game.

It’s the program's first 3A state title after competing at the 2A level in previous years.

“We always wanted our fifth in a row,” said Hilton Head Christian guard Tamaya Hutchinson. “We probably will go play for six in a row next year.”

Hutchinson scored a game-high 27 points in the game, earning her a spot on the all-tournament team.

The win caps off the end of a long 29-game season, which saw the Eagles go (27-2).

“The foundation was there, and the pieces were there,” Eagle Head Coach Bobby Thompson said. “We had a lot of talent, which makes every coach look a little better than he is. But it's been a fun journey. These girls come and work hard every day at practice, and this is what happens when you do that."

The Eagles took control right from the jump. They held a 17-3 lead three-quarters of the way through the opening period.

It appeared the Crusaders were going to end the quarter with just one field goal. However, in the final minute forward Peyton Thompson drained a three-pointer to ease the deficit.

Shannon Forest made up some ground in the second quarter. This was because its defense stepped up and made it hard for the Eagles to get points.

Three minutes into the period they had just one basket.

Midway through, the Crusaders cut the game to single digits before Hilton Head Christian scored just five points at this point.

“Give them credit, they played a real sag in man to man, and we just weren't hitting shots,” Thompson said.

Shannon Forest controlled the paint and the glass during this stretch. But it did not last long.

The Eagles closed the half strong and built their lead back up to 14 by halftime.

Hilton Head Christian had all the momentum after forward Ella Klepchick sunk a jumper as the halftime buzzer went off.

The second half was no contest.

Hilton Head Christian started on an 8-0 run less than two minutes into the third quarter. Three minutes in and the lead was 23 points.

The Eagles never looked back and continued to grow their lead until the final buzzer.

Both teams emptied their bench with two minutes left and Hilton Head Christian began to chew cock.

Once it hit all zeros, the celebrations began.

“It's awesome,” Thompson said. “I'm so happy for these young ladies. They've worked so hard, and I'm just so excited for them.”

Guard Devon Yarde scored 14 for the Eagles. Guard Jaida Grayson and forward Morgan Scott scored 8 points.

Forward Katie Edrey led the Crusaders with 12 points.

Shannon Forest’s season ends with a record of (21-4). The Crusaders went undefeated in region play with an (8-0) record.

Hilton Head Christian’s fifth consecutive title marks its sixth overall championship. The Eagles will look to continue cementing their dynasty next season when they go for six in a row.