LHSAA Championship Game: Division l Non-Select

Zachary vs. Central Baton Rouge   The Division I Non-Select Championship game featured two of the state's top teams, Zachary High School and Central Baton Rouge. From the opening tip, it was clear that this game would be a hard-fought battle, as both teams brought their defensive intensity to the forefront.   The first quarter was a defensive showdown with very few field goals being made. [player_tooltip player_id='1347180' first='Xavier' last='Ferguson'] for Zachary and [player_tooltip player_id='2894296' first='Jace' last='Conrad'] for Central were the standout offensive players, and they set the tone early. Zachary ended the first quarter with a slim 8-7 lead.   The second quarter continued the defensive theme, with both teams finding it difficult to score. Zachary maintained their lead over Central, going into halftime with a 15-13 advantage.   In the third quarter, Zachary extended their one-point lead to six, finishing the period ahead 31-25. Central had their opportunities, but Zachary's defense and timely scoring allowed them to hold their lead heading into the final quarter.   The fourth quarter was a tense affair, with Conrad continuing to keep Central in the game by scoring at a high level. However, Zachary's timely buckets allowed them to maintain their advantage, and they sealed the victory with a 44-37 win, capturing the Division I Non-Select Championship.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   Zachary Player Spotlights:   [player_tooltip player_id='1347180' first='Xavier' last='Ferguson'] – [player_tooltip player_id='1347180' first='Xavier' last='Ferguson'] might just be the shiftiest player in the state. His ability to handle the ball and score on command makes him a dangerous offensive weapon. Known for his physical style of play, Ferguson thrives at the rim and excels at finishing through contact. He can break down defenses, and in a game where most teams run structured sets, Ferguson has the ability to create his own offense and make the game a physical challenge for opposing guards. His toughness and playmaking ability make him one of the top players to watch in the state.   Kristion Brooks – Brooks is the quintessential three-and-D player, excelling at both defense and shooting. He is a solid defender with the ability to knock down shots from deep, making him a consistent threat on both ends of the floor. Brooks plays a key role for Zachary, doing all the small things that help the team win. As a two-sport athlete, he will have some big decisions to make regarding his future, but his basketball ability makes him a valuable asset to any program at the next level.   [player_tooltip player_id='2132747' first='Ian' last='Edmond'] – As the point guard for one of the state's top teams, Edmonds is used to the pressure and expectations that come with the position. Despite the weight of leading a high-caliber program, Edmonds has handled the pressure with poise and confidence. Whether facilitating for teammates or stepping up as a scorer, Edmonds has proven himself to be a key player for Zachary. He has the tools to succeed at the next level and is an underrated player whose stock is rising quickly. Recognized as the game MVP the state has received a formal introduction to Mr. [player_tooltip player_id='2132747' first='Ian' last='Edmond']s   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   Central Baton Rouge Player Spotlights:   [player_tooltip player_id='2894296' first='Jace' last='Conrad'] – Conrad is a skilled offensive player who can frustrate defenders with his ability to score from various areas on the court. With a soft touch around the rim and exceptional ball-handling, Conrad is able to maneuver through defenses and create opportunities for himself. In the championship game, he took on the scoring load, contributing over half of his team's points and keeping Central in the game. His ability to score in different ways, combined with his defensive competitiveness (including a crucial block in the game), makes him a well-rounded player. His skills and scoring ability will surely catch the attention of college coaches looking for offensive firepower.   Collin Verrett – Verrett is a tough point guard who relies on his defense and basketball IQ to impact the game. He can effectively run the offense, take shots within the system, and make the smart decisions when it matters most. Verrett is also strong and has the physicality to handle the demands of high-level competition. In the championship game, he stepped up to provide the necessary scoring when Central needed it, proving his value as a well-rounded and reliable contributor on both ends of the floor.

Zachary vs. Central Baton Rouge