That is it is the.

It's state title time from Bank Oak Arena in Hot Springs.

March madness came early in Arkansas.

It's day one of the Centennial Bank state basketball championships on Arkansas PBS sports.

And it all starts with a two way girls.

It's the Izard County Cougars and the Barton Bears for the first time for these girls programs.

It's their first ever trip to the state title game.

And with that, we say hello JB Brazil alongside West Westmore.

That's just the first of many.

We got a jam packed weekend of championship basketball.

Yeah, let's go ahead and make some history.

With two teams looking for their first state championship in our first game, but it's just the first of four games today.

We've got two way and three way today.

Then tomorrow we got the four A girls starting us off at noon to Queen Pulaski Academy, Morrilton and Mills boys will play at 145 tomorrow night.

We move to five eight Greene County Tech Farmington girls at six, followed by Benton and Maumelle at 745.

And that should be a packed arena for that game Saturday.

We're right back here for the six eight girls.

Fayetteville with North Side followed up by the boys at 145 Bryant and Springdale.

We finish up in one a West side and oral girls at six, and then everybody in oral sticks around to watch the boys.

They'll play Mark tree for the one eight title at 745.

12 games for today, for Friday, for Saturday.

So much basketball that United Basketball Championship was awarded Cedar Ridge the state champion.

They knock off Greenbrier.

So much fun up ahead.

Tip off from hot springs coming up.

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Welcome back to Championship Basketball here in Hot Springs, Jamie Brazil alongside Wes Moore.

And it was both of these teams a dream season is going to come to an end for one of them.

The other one.

The dream will keep rolling on Izard County though to get to where they're at.

Had to win three straight.

Let's take a look back at that.

Yeah.

His account making school history to get to their state championship game.

When we take a look at how they fared against Ozark Mountain, beating them by 23 points in the first round and took care of Poland, 5541.

Advance to the semifinals, where they beat Quitman, a big game for Izard County to knock off Quitman win that game by 11.

Let's check out is a county and some of the players to watch in this game is a county is starting line up.

You take a look at it with their five players Steven Sprague, Yancey, Bailey and Johnson.

This is a team for his county that there's not one individual that's going to just dominate this game.

They get production from all over the court.

Absolutely.

Quinn Johnson though paces all of them.

And she's going to have a big game today.

Yeah Quinn Johnson 18.7 and a half rebounds this season three and a half assists.

Just does a little bit of everything for this.

Izard County team 31 and four record.

You look at them 60 points.

They average on offense.

But defense they get it done.

Only 44 points per game for Izard County.

They're going to have to do a lot of things right.

What's the keys to the game.

Well yeah.

For intercounty they got to handle this defensive pressure.

That's what Barton does.

They're going to get after Izard County.

So you got to handle that.

And then maybe the number one thing contain Jackson and Wilson.

These are two fantastic players for Barton.

We'll get to Barton in here.

Just a moment.

We're just about set for opening tip.

The Centennial Bank state basketball championships are underway away.

The Barton Bears will control the opening tip against Izard County.

The Cougars and their first ever trip to the state title game.

They go Allie up top underneath the shot off walk goal for Barton.

That was Shakira.

Jackson.

That one looked almost like an alley oop, something they've tried a couple times this year.

I tell you what you saw the athleticism right there from Jackson.

She can get up and just absolutely fly.

We've seen highlights of her trying an alley oop.

And it doesn't even look real.

How much she can jump.

How high she can jump.

And you just saw that right there.

Went up and got that.

Unfortunately unable to connect.

And then defensively forcing the miscue.

So a turnover for Izard County on their first trip.

They don't get a shot off.

Barton will have it now a good look there for Izard County trying to hit on the baseline.

Just a little too high on that pass.

Is her county coming out playing a little bit of A23 zone.

Still looking for the game's first score.

A little under a minute has been gone by.

And a big shot DiMeo Wilson the junior starts it off.

Barton strikes first.

Wilson averages 22 points per game.

And she's going to have that shot right there on the elbow all night long if she wants it.

She looked very comfortable taking that shot.

You mentioned it earlier Izard County.

They've got a handful of different players that can score Quinn Johnson the one that leads the way.

But they're going to have to really find a way to beat this pressure from Barton because they're flying everywhere defensively.

When you start to buy Wilson trying to come in and pick off that pass.

Got there a little late.

Picks up the foul.

That's one thing that Barton doesn't want to do.

They don't want to get Wilson or Jackson into foul trouble because they mean so much to this team.

But a quick foul that time for Wilson.

Olivia Spray tries to bounce pass knocked away by Barton.

So a sideline inbounds for the Cougars.

Yeah if I'm the Cougars I'm going to attack I'm going to try to attack Wilson again.

See if I can't pick up another foul on a real quick in this game.

Nancy's running into problems.

Lost it.

They got someone underneath wide open.

Tenley Bailey for the easy scores.

Great job by Quinn Johnson.

Getting there picking up that loose ball.

And once she got it she was looking for a teammate quickly and found one for a layup.

So we're all tied up at two at three.

Ball had too much on it.

And Izard County is pushing the other way.

For Quinn Johnson now they'll slow things down.

Skip pass into the corner.

Yancey launches a three and she buries it.

She's got there on that corner.

Three the short side and nailed it.

Hierarchy three nothing but net.

Izard County five.

Oh, answer.

They take their first lead of the contest.

Barton looking for a response Zaria Smith out high nearly had that one stolen as she tried to feed Jackson.

There's a left wing try off the backboard.

No good on the launch for max B. Izard County trying to push the lead out open.

Look Tenley Bailey nothing good for the 17 footer.

Hot starting off the game making some outside shots that'll help them relax.

You see them trying to pick up the defensive intensity.

Make a couple shots.

It changes the way you feel.

You know the nerves are rolling, so that certainly eases things a bit.

Good strong take to the rack from Jackson but couldn't get it to go in.

The Cougars a big baller.

Great rebound from Bailey to go up and get that.

Cougars up 7 to 2.

Little floater in the lane.

Too strong.

And Barton's got the rebound.

Trailing the play three to Maya Wilson.

Side rim.

No offensive board though Zaria Smith shot won't go.

Got a second chance but could knock it down Quinn Johnson looking to to push.

They want that tempo.

Get up the court.

Look at this deep shot.

Deep three off the front rim Mackenzie Yancey heat checking in cleaning up the nance Olivia spray.

The junior puts the Cougars up seven Barton winded that.

Nobody got down the court to rebound.

And so was two of the county girls.

They're ready for the rebound.

Just got it an easy layup.

Left wing trip will try is short.

Offensive rebound though Wilson fading away.

Can't get it to go.

Both of them unkind.

It's 9 to 2 is her county.

And Spray's looking to push.

You could tell they've gone to the cross quickly.

And then they find openings when the defense is struggling to get back.

Oh, she just picked up another foul.

Nope.

That's.

Sorry.

That's Jackson this time.

So Jackson gets tangled up right here.

Look at this three ball from earlier in the first quarter three splash.

This is County starting out hot.

They're going to the bench in this timeout.

They are excited than they should be because they've jumped out to a 9 to 2 lead.

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We're just getting started.

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It's a big deal that they can turn on the TV or DVR or whatever and know they're going to get a quality product.

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Well, we got off and running.

Didn't get a chance to show you the starting lineups for Izard County.

Quinn Johnson at the bottom.

She's been the mainstay, but she's had help from the other four.

And certainly McKenzie Yancey with the big three to get things going.

And then Barton on the other side to Kyra Jackson to Maya Wilson.

Those are the two headed monster for Barton.

They've been very, very good all year long.

Those win rocks starting lineups.

NC they feed it out.

Top for Johnson three one.

Go big boy.

That big long offensive rebound.

He's a county making all the hustle plays right now.

And how about that jumps the route.

Oh no.

They're going to say she found her first to Kyla Jackson.

Thought she got the clean steal.

But the bump occurred first.

And that's going to be two fouls on Jackson.

That's a very unfortunate foul.

That's just a loose ball.

And these two players are just trying to hustle and make a play.

Izard County though up 9 to 2.

The physicality for Barton.

It's got some pros and cons right.

You can get forced turnovers but sometimes too physical leads to foul trouble.

Open again underneath turnaround jumper got it to go.

Tenley Bailey the senior.

But Bailey with a little reverse I thought she's going to do a drop a step to the basket.

She goes the other way because she's so confident in that little five footer.

Fancy footwork Barton still looking for an answer.

They went up two.

Nothing but currently an 11 oh run for Izard County here in the first quarter.

Too many jump shots need attack.

Get to the basket now.

Some miscommunication Jackson.

Nobody home in the corner.

The turnover gives it back to County.

This two three zone for his account.

He's doing exactly what they want.

You know this could be a tough place to play this early state championship game.

You got all these nerves going on and you just forcing a team to shoot a bunch of jump shots and three pointers.

That's exactly what it is.

What County wants to do.

You got to find a way to get to the basket, get some easy points.

Right now if you're Barton McKenzie, Yancey brings it ahead for the Cougars.

Looking to add to that lead.

Someone got left open.

They like not to shoot that one.

Now they will.

Three ball off the front side Callie Skidmore into the game.

Can't get it to go.

Scramble for the loose ball.

Wilson's got it.

But it'll be a jump and it'll stay with Izard County once again.

I mean, Izard County, they're on the floor.

They're just making these small little plays, these little hustle plays, and it's getting them an extra possession here.

They're so far they've been able to handle the pressure.

Up until that point we got a foul.

That one's going to go against Izard County.

And so Barton gets a break.

Finally looking to set up some offense.

Good job by the defense paying attention.

Bad pass out of bounds.

Let's see what the bears can do here.

They just need something to go down kind of stop the bleeding a little bit.

Still very early 236 is that little floater won't go.

And Tenley Bailey amongst the trees pulls down the board.

But it's taken away.

Wilson with a big steal.

That's the second turnover of the day against Izard County.

Zaria Smith will kick it back out high.

Fresh shot clock pull up jumper high off the window.

Won't go.

Rebound from sledge to the top three.

That one won't go either.

And finally the Cougars the board.

And they threw it away.

Jackson gets it to go and it stops the 11 oh run.

But when your offense is struggling what can you do.

You can turn to your defense.

And that was just a good steal.

Layup easy points for Jackson.

Defense to offense nearly got another steal Ellie Yancey to the rack.

Fouled on the way in by sledge.

And she'll head to the free throw line.

She's good.

She saw an open hole and she did not hesitate.

She just sped through that hole.

Got to the lane, got to the basket.

Gets fouled.

She'll go to the free throw line.

How about the athleticism from Jackie Jackson early on she's been flying everywhere to the basket very quick and fast.

Top end speed very athletic.

We've already seen jump how she can jump.

They're going to have to use that on the defensive end to get to to the basket, create some easy points on their offense right now.

Just struggling a little bit with this is her county defense.

Two big free throws by Mackenzie Yancey.

Those always come in clutch in the state title game.

She goes two for two and pushes the lead back out to nine.

Off the screen.

Left wing free.

Nothing but net for number eight Wilson go back and watch her shoot during warmups.

She has a great outside stroke.

Certainly the bears want to get her going.

Johnson splits the double-team and kicks it to tall for ten.

Bailey Barton trying to speed her up and force the turnover.

That's exactly what they did.

Well, defensive pressure forced the turnover.

Bad throw Barton trying to crawl back into this game.

Look there's 37 and one for a reason.

They're in this championship game for a reason.

You knew they're going to make a run and figure things out.

Wilson trying to get another one to go.

That one's too strong.

Loose ball out of bounds.

Last touched by the bears.

And you talk about their offense.

West this year the state tournament 87 points against Washington.

That's eighth most in Arkansas history for a team.

They can score it well.

And that's why is there county you got to be careful defensively.

Well they mercy rule 30 of their 38 a point.

Opponents that's being up 30 points in the fourth quarter is her county though.

They've got that one.

Walk it down low ten.

Lee Bailey the easy money.

Hey what I'm impressed with Bailey's game came in averaging ten points and seven rebounds.

And we've seen her gobble up a couple of nice rebounds and a couple of nice shots there in the post two.

She's very comfortable you can tell.

Absolutely hasn't missed as a team.

Is her county shooting 60% here in the first quarter Wilson.

The three see home.

It is her county's only up five.

Here's the county's got to keep an eye on two and three.

No where they are at all times.

Do not give up.

Open threes Olivia Sprague going straight downhill.

Can't get the shot to go.

Scramble for the loose ball.

It's a jump and alternating possessions will give it back to Barton.

Bailey did it again.

Went up and got it.

Here's a good look at Bailey on that layup.

But she just went up and got a jump ball to skying for that rebound I love to Maya Wilson shot it reminds you Sean Marion a little bit the way she got.

Yeah Bailey whatever works right.

She's looking good early.

Wilson's two of four from deep.

Butter in the corner.

Good pass.

And she would have gotten that.

That shot off they go.

Lob alley oop.

Basket counts.

And she's going to on.

You got to be kidding me.

How many girls teams have alley oop in their playbook.

Barton.

And that's it.

Who else.

Who else can do that.

Wow.

And she's five seven West.

You want to see a replay.

See where her hands were when she caught that ball.

She is so close to the rim.

You know she almost had an alley oop earlier this year in a transition play.

They Wilson bounce it off the backboard.

And then Jackson went out with one hand.

Nearly got the alley to go.

Final possession of the quarter.

Bounce pass to low for Bailey.

Turnover again.

Barton's within two.

And with 2.4 to go a chance to take the lead here at the end of the quarter.

Wow I mean her hands up there in the middle of that net.

Wilson launches it short.

Won't go 1513.

Got a good one after one quarter of play.

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Well, who doesn't always like a little bit of trivia time?

Let's go.

Let's take a look here.

So question is who holds the single season scoring record in Arkansas girl's basketball history?

Let you ponder that a little bit.

So many great girls players in state history of Arkansas that is top.

How about the Barton girls Jackson and Wilson.

They got all 13 of their points.

And it started with defense.

Five turnovers for her county during that first quarter.

Is it.

County of course jumps off to a great start.

And they were in control of this.

But then the Barton defense got them back in this game with some turnovers some steals.

And we got a ballgame two point ballgame two areas to clean up.

Izard County protection of the basketball.

And Barton's got to shoot better.

Only five of 18.

They get an easy jump shot from Bailey underneath.

Can't get that one to go.

And now Barton got a chance to retake the lead.

First miss of the game for Bailey Wilson for the lead.

Front rim no Jackson.

The offensive board puts it high off the glass and we're tied.

Did a good job rebounding early for his county.

But it's kind of fallen off last couple of minutes.

Well they certainly crashed to the basketball jump shot there from spray.

Won't go a little too strong now.

Barton's defense causing problems.

Wilson behind the back kicks out draws everybody right wing.

Jackson's three won't go.

And Ezra County's had it the other way.

Spray quick.

Nice move.

Can't get it to go though.

Too tall.

And then a foul on the rebound against is her county.

The barn has done a great job of speeding things up for Ester County.

They came out this year County losing control of this game.

They were playing under so much control.

But then credit Barton.

They just stepped up the defensive intensity and it's just changed this game.

It was two nothing Barton.

And then Izard County went on an 11 zero run before Barton finally stopped it.

They climbed back tied this thing up Wilson step back three with a hand in her face.

Won't go.

And Bailey's got the board.

And it's good defense by county that time.

They can live with that Quinn Johnson trying to get in on the action.

Her shot won't go but she's fouled on the way in.

But there's going to be a struggle.

What do you want to do.

You want to drive to the basket.

That's actually what Quinn Johnson did that time.

Get to the free throw line.

Stop this run.

She just she just settles everybody down a little bit.

When you do the just the basic things of basketball.

And that's one of them.

So heads up play from Quinn for Barton.

The keys for them were to control the pace of play and capitalize off turnovers.

They've certainly done that.

Certainly they're in the later part of the first quarter.

It's been the difference in their comeback.

They stepped it up, got the pace going the way they like to play it, and it's been a little frenetic pace.

Barton's taken advantage of it.

Is there.

County back up by two.

How about the free throws in four for four.

Yancey and Johnson at both knocked down all of their tries.

Those are things you look back late in the game.

Do you hit your free throws.

It keeps you in it or gives you the win.

Make the easy shots.

Make the free throws.

Rosen's tough shot won't go.

No.

Is her county is heading the other way.

They get it across without too much pressure.

That's been the key for Simmons.

Get it over quickly.

I'll spray a little short jumper won't go.

Scramble for the board.

It pops out to Jackson.

Moving quickly.

Jump.

Step right here in fancy.

Butler tied once again.

Hard to stop that.

She went through three defenders.

Here's her count.

He's trying to respond.

Just pounding that pressure.

So difficult.

And then Johnson doing what she does best right.

Get in contact.

Going to the free throw line I said she went through three defenders.

She went through all five.

Should be one at the free throw line.

And there were four waiting on her and she just diced through there.

Quinn Johnson's shooting shots Quinn Johnson, teams leader, knocks down the first five of five as a team from the charity stripe.

Hey, this is where Johnson gets a lot of her points averaging 18.1 points per game.

She's a big rebounder too 70% Free-Throw shooter doesn't look like enough them all down.

She's 100% free throw shooter.

Thank.

Well it was a big lead early for his county.

But once Barton got back in this thing it's been nip and tuck ever since.

And Jackson's fouled out high before the drive.

So it should be on the floor.

She's so quick I mean just a little off.

Jumps around the girl court causes her to foul back.

Just the second team foul here in the second quarter.

One is your county Swat team Brianna and more.

To go to Wilson.

Deep three right wing off the side.

No good rebound pulled down by Kelly Skidmore the freshman for her county spread the drive in the kick.

Skidmore right wing.

The freshman gets the freshman role.

Oh got a freshman is inside and let out a yell.

May have heard that back home.

She's fired up.

Gives her county a five point lead.

Jackson will kick it over in the corner.

Saraya Smith now.

Slowing things down.

Trying to be a little bit more methodical.

Find an open lane.

Will Barton has gone to a man to man.

Change things up a little defensively and so I'm sorry his her county went to a man to man Barton was trying to figure it out a little bit.

That's why it slowed it down.

Cause some problems too forcing the turnover Barton travels with it is are County on A50 run.

Can I handle this pressure though.

That's been the name of the game Johnson playing with two fouls.

Free throw line jumper lost it.

It was tech tries to kick it back in the saves it.

They got Tim Lee running that baseline.

They will look up Barton forgets about her sometimes.

Now over to Yancey with ten to shoot.

Drives to the lane high off the glass.

No.

Bailey battling.

Can't get it.

Jackson strips it away.

Trying to move quickly.

Jackson.

Shovel pass out it goes.

No more.

It's a go.

Three ball for the Lamarr duo.

Jackson just drives in.

Sucks all the defense into her.

And she just kicks it out to a wide open to Maya Wilson.

She knocks down the three A simple offense.

That's right.

Get Jackson.

Get the defenders to collapse.

And then Wilson does the rest Johnson on a nice feed underneath Bailey the baseline jumper won't go.

But how about the rebound.

The freshman Skidmore a second chance.

Look.

And she's going to the line.

Skidmore went up and got that.

And then aggressively take it back up Barton had their hands down.

When she goes up she hits their hands.

Easy call from the official.

And she go to the free throw line.

Well it's 2220.

Very very close to the timeout on the floor.

We'll have free throws when we come back.

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What would you like to know?

Who is the single season scoring record in Arkansas girls basketball history?

No, it's Wanda Dillard from Brinkley, 35.7 points per game, one.

That's unreal.

I'd like to see the list of every game she played that year because, you know, it wasn't just 30.

She had to have some 40s and 50s, not many 20s.

You average 35.

That isn't fresh.

That's more than some teams average in a game.

It's good.

More the freshman trying to keep her county perfect from the line.

Can't connect on the first.

Chance to push the lead back out to three though.

The rims unkind goes oh for two.

And Barton will bring it ahead with Jackson.

Wilson.

Not talking about to Maya Wilson what she can do as a freshman.

The numbers she put up 55 points, fourth most in a game by a player in Arkansas as a freshman was wow.

You.

Left wing three from Tab more won't go in is her county.

Little bit of miscommunication trying to outlet off their own player.

Jackson ties it up off the turnover.

Careless mistake.

His account has got to take care of the ball.

There wasn't even any pressure on him that time.

It was just a miscommunication.

Take care of the basketball.

Antsy trying to get it across the timeline.

Spray on the right wing jumper.

Rattles it home.

Two things you like how she just stepped up and hit that little 15 footer.

No big deal.

State championship game.

Tie game.

No big deal of was knocked us down.

Spray the junior such confidence down the baseline pull up from Jackson won't go.

But she was fouled.

And a chance to tie it at the free throw line.

How about Jones up again.

She gets so quick.

Look at the way she exploded into that jump shot.

It caught his R County a little bit off guard and just ran into her.

May had a little contact with Jackson.

Can't get the first free throw to go.

Something that Barton has done well.

They've tried to keep Quinn Johnson from taking over.

She's only got four points, but she's only taken one shot and tried to limit her is her county.

They know their task at hand is a slow down.

Jackson and Wilson only the second and third free throws of the game for Barton.

And got to the free throw.

Line of time.

No dessert.

County credit though they have.

And they capitalized for the most part.

Sprays left open ball fake jumper.

She likes the midrange.

She's good at it.

Gets that 1 to 2 in a row.

Olivia spray actually a home score up there at Hazard County.

And roles to play on the girls basketball team.

Her brother also plays for his her county and lost in the state tournament.

Almost made it back to back.

Both teams.

These are County changing up their defense once again trying to figure something out.

How can we slow down Jackson and Wilson?

They hand it off.

Wilson the floater gets it to go.

Best to get it to her.

And Wilson did the rest.

And then Wilson a little bit too aggressive.

That's foul.

Number two is she tried to go for the steal against Olivia.

Spray in my hands.

And speaking of spray how about these mid-range shots.

That's actually her third foul.

Oh boy.

That could be problematic for Martin.

Attack.

Any any time I see three around me, I'm going right at her.

Oh, right now it's the ideal ratio.

The three mid-range jumpers in a row.

Just get that look on her face right now.

Not fazed at all.

So intense.

Under a minute to play in the half.

These are counties out for Jackson.

Short jumper won't go.

Bailey another rebound.

She's been big today for her county.

She leads the way for the Cougars with eight points in rebounds as well.

Corner feed launches it three.

It glances off the rim but they get the offensive board.

Spray toes up with three.

That one just a little bit too strong.

She was feeling it a little heat check there.

Mark could hope for the final shot but they're not going to.

It's Jackson going straight downhill.

We got a foul on the way.

It's a free throw.

They got her.

You got one that is high.

Will reach in foul.

Fourth team foul.

And then the free on the inbound does it again.

Just can't let that happen.

You gotta identify the shooters.

Know where they are on that inbounds play.

Just cannot let her have a no for three Johnson got her pocket picked from behind by Jackson.

They got a chance here for the final shot Wilson at the buzzer doesn't realize it passes and time has expired.

It's a one point game at half 2827.

You're watching the Centennial Bank State Basketball Championships on Arkansas PBS sports.

Since 1937, the electric cooperatives of Arkansas have been providing power to homes, farms and businesses across our state.

The cooperatives are member of and work together to serve Arkansans.

The Electric cooperatives of Arkansas.

They support high school students and athletics in Arkansas and hope you enjoy watching the state championship games on Arkansas.

PBS sports.

Better connected together the electric cooperatives of Arkansas.

Hey, everybody.

Steve Sullivan here live with Christina munoz.

It's halftime at Bank Oak Arena in Hot Springs.

But don't go anywhere because we've got a lot in store for you.

In the early 1990s, a remarkable chapter in Arkansas basketball history was about to unfold at Arkansas Tech University.

Under the leadership of Coach Jo Foley, the Golden Suns weren't just chasing victories, they were building a program that would inspire generations.

This is the story of Back-To-Back national championships that did more than fill trophy cases.

It created a legacy of excellence that continues to shape Arkansas basketball today.

We had great team chemistry.

He was a great coach and we won back to back national championships.

They were really successful before we got there.

Jimmy Year, I think pretty well started the program and Jim Dixon's The Color of Talent, so it was a very successful program that I got to take over.

There was an assumption, a false assumption that women couldn't do what the men were doing.

Their first experience of playing full court basketball was when they came to college.

But when Coach Foley came, he really put the misconception aside.

Basically, this team wanted to do something nobody thought they could do, and nobody expected them to do except themselves when it came to recruiting.

He was very honest, frank about what his expectations were going to be.

You know, everybody wants to learn, but not everybody wants to prepare the way.

And this team understood the preparation, how hard it was.

He was very detail oriented in his motion offense.

We would repeat the same drills over and over and over.

When you believe in something, you got to really give yourself to learn.

And those kids were disciplined to get better each day.

As a coach, I had to get better each day.

And it all kind of accumulated at the end.

And they ended up being an unbelievable basketball team.

Things just kind of flowed kind of easily that year, and I kind of sat there after it was over when the Final Four, and so we won by 15 or 16.

And I thought, this is all there is to it, because I think we just blew everybody up.

They were tenacious and aggressive and and they were mentally challenging to play against.

And by the end of the game, they had won the game not only physically but mentally.

The practices were actually tougher than the games.

That's what separates us from a lot of teams.

Is is the preparation.

We just drained, ran screens, pass cut.

That's just the motion.

Offense.

We had a target on our back.

We were all returning and we knew that.

So it was way more difficult.

He did not call a timeout.

He told us he trusted us.

Hey, you know how to play basketball?

Just go make a play.

We've worked on this.

The defense kind of spread because they knew that he was going to move the ball all the way.

And all of a sudden he sees of case.

He's got great awareness as he sees the all currency go back.

They made a great pass and there was nobody guarding me.

It was kind of lucky.

It was like it was a tough shot.

And the in the layup as the shot clock know we went up the wall.

I was just blessed to be able to make it.

Have been successful.

They were on a finals team last year.

We're all close and know each other really well.

It's just a good bond and I think it helps us during the game.

Sometimes he's very strict sometimes, but like that just makes us better with our team.

Last year we got to a very high position like where nobody else was.

Instead of hammering them to do something, you've got to encourage them to believe in themselves.

Gets her point across.

I like the way she coaches because she knows what's best for us.

I learned why he did what he did.

He pushed us to be the best we could be to get outside of our own comfort zone.

If you set your high expectations, high, you're going to get to get up there pretty good.

Winning is not the ultimate.

It wasn't about the X's and O's.

It was about the people.

You know, we don't just teach them basketball.

We teach them life skills.

I just wanted to be good people.

These kids need to know all the time that I love them that I'll do anything for them.

But once we cross those lines, there's going to be a high expectation and a high standard that I'm going to expect them to play and I'm going to be on them.

But when I walk off the court, I'm going to hug them, tell them I love them, and we're going to move on to the next day.

Putting your pieces together each year, trying to figure out the best way for that team to play, the best way to help those kids become a great team.

That's the joy.

Winning's great, but ultimately the relationships you have with these kids when they go off.

I would tell players all the time, do you make me a better coach?

And they look at me and say, well, I and that's it, because I don't want to let you down.

And you didn't fail them.

And when you had great players that gave you everything, you keep going on, then you got to go.

You got to figure it out.

From those unforgettable championship seasons in 1992 and 93, the Golden Suns impact resonates far beyond the court.

Through coaches like Karen Pinion, McNabb, the spirit of excellence and determination that Jo Foley instilled lives on in gyms across Arkansas.

Here at Arkansas PBS, we celebrate these champions who showed us that true greatness isn't just about winning titles, but passing the torch to future generations.

Now let's toss it over to Christina.

She's going to introduce you to some very talented athletes.

Christina.

That's right.

Thanks, Steve.

Earlier in the season, we reached out to schools all over the state looking for athletes who not only excel on the court, but in the classroom, too.

Here is the Arkansas PBS Student All Stars, class of 2025.

We start off with B1A girls.

That is Ella Holtzman with the Sacred Heart Knights.

Ella has a 4.0 GPA and plans to go to the University of Arkansas and study biology for one AA boys.

We have Jonah Walker, a senior center from March Tree.

Jonah wants to go to college to pursue a career in the medical field.

He likes playing football and hanging out with his brother in his spare time.

Next up we have Hayden Matheny representing two AA girls.

She plays for the Lady Greyhounds of Sloan Hendricks High.

Hayden has a 4.0 GPA and wants to attend Arkansas State University to pursue a degree in radiation therapy for the boys.

And today we've got Amari Neal.

Marie has a GPA of 3.6 and wants to be a pediatric dentist, hunting, fishing, and spending time with family as some of the ways he spends his spare time.

The Bergman Lady Panthers Brinley Collins is the three girls Arkansas PBS student all star really wants to further her basketball and academic career.

She has a 4.0 GPA on the boys side and three.

We have Rylan Robbins representing the flippin high school Bobcats.

Rylan wants to pursue college basketball and major in education.

Basketball, fishing, baseball and video games are how he likes to spend his spare time.

Halfway through and on to the four a girls, that's Jordan Youngblood with the Heber Springs Panthers.

Jordan plans to attend ASU Newport to play softball and major in exercise science.

She enjoys anything active and shopping.

Riley Jones with the Eastham Mets represents the four a boys.

Riley has a 3.75 GPA and wants to become a basketball coach.

He likes video games, hanging out with friends, working out and trying new food.

The five A girls are well-represented by Jesse Edrington of the Greene County Tech Golden Eagles.

Jesse wants to attend Arkansas State and become a physical therapist.

She has a 4.17 GPA and enjoys being with family and friends and love everything about the lake.

The five boys, well, that is Elias Xavion with the Russellville Cyclones.

Elias wants to attend UCA and become a gastroenterologist.

He enjoys hanging out with friends and family and playing basketball.

Rounding out the classifications are your six A student All-Stars for the girls, that is McKinley Campbell with the Harbor Lady Wildcats.

McKinley is interested in becoming a veterinarian or possibly a psychologist.

She has a 4.1 GPA and likes to cook, shop, and hang out with friends.

And finally, for the six eight boys, we have Kellan Robinson with the Bryant Hornets.

Kellen plans to play basketball at UAA.

He has a 3.75 GPA and enjoys playing basketball and working out.

Congratulations and keep up the good work.

All right Steve, it is about that time.

All right.

Yes it is.

Christina.

Let's get back to the bank.

Okay.

Arena for the second half.

That's right here on the home of the high school basketball state finals.

Arkansas PBS.

Since 1937, the electric cooperatives of Arkansas have been providing power to homes, farms, and businesses across our state.

The cooperatives are member of and work together to serve Arkansans.

The electric cooperatives of Arkansas.

They support high school students and athletics in Arkansas and hope you enjoy watching the state championship games on Arkansas.

PBS sports.

Better connected together the electric cooperatives of Arkansas.

It's almost time for the second half of action.

As we take a look at our first half stats.

Hoosier counties up by one 2827.

Good shooting for the Cougars, 43%.

But the biggest thing is the turnovers.

Points off turnovers and points in the paint.

That's what's allowed Barton to hang around.

And they've only got two players that have scored tonight is Wilson to Jackson because somehow his account look Jackson and Wilson are going to get there.

They're good players but you can't let them have easy baskets.

You cannot lose containment of them at all times.

You got to know where they are on the court.

Here's a county got off to a good start.

And a lot of there's been some of that mid range game tonight will jump shots.

Take a look as Wilson and Jackson doing the damage.

Well alley oop action from Wilson to Jackson.

Can Jackson fly or what.

Here's some of that mid range game I was talking about.

Yeah it's brave with eight points Yancy had five points.

Bailey I really like Bailey's game.

She's on her way to a double double.

She's got eight points and six rebounds at the half.

Coach David Hartman is the head coach for the Cougars.

This is his first ever trip to the finals.

He's won 1 in 2008 with the state title winner.

His assistant, Kyle McCandless, was actually on that 2008 title team.

He's won four state titles in golf.

This would be big.

And right into the action, the shot will go at sledge who gets fouled.

And she'll go to the free throw line.

Sledge getting the start in the second half and use a little bit of her size.

Get some easy rebounds.

She has a chance to be the first Barton Bear to score.

Not named Jackson or Wilson.

That's right.

We thought it might be the dynamic duo sledge.

His first free throw is up here.

Google tide.

You look at coach calling for Barton Wright court his daughter played at Polanski Academy Jaden Court went on to play collegiately at Purdue Fort Wayne and then Coastal Carolina in the Sunbelt.

He said that she's been there, been to the high stage game, helped his team prepare for this moment.

It was a slow start for Barton, but boy, they sure picked it up.

And Barton gets a couple of free throws from sledge.

And how about that.

All of a sudden they have a lead for the first time in a while.

Barton pressure gets a little deflection.

Hands on the basketball.

Quinn Johnson going to try to get it across.

Well there's four defenders all around.

She's able to escape trouble though and drives goes off the glass.

No Tenley Bailey goes up the putback.

My goodness Tenley Bailey double figures for Bailey.

Now she's got ten.

Give her her seventh rebound.

Also she is giving it her all today until she's just a little bit banged up.

The grimace on her face.

But boy she has played lights out.

Came into the game averaging ten and she's got her ten to play her step up right and a foul under underneath.

It's a good drive.

And take inside from Zarya Smith a this from Barton all of a sudden didn't have another player scored in the first half besides Jackson Wilson.

And their first points in the second half could come from those other players.

Sledge made two free throws.

Now Smith has a chance to add two free throws.

You got to imagine that was part of Coach Court's plan, right?

You know that Wilson and Jackson are going to be the mainstays, but maybe some production from other players.

You know if I'm if I'm County I'm fine with that.

I'm going to do everything I can to keep the ball out of Jackson's hand.

Wilson's hand make these other players the role players beat you in a state championship game.

Smith can't get the second one to go, but Jackson pulls down the board.

Three ball Wilson.

It's a big four point swing for her.

One of the things right there you just got to block out.

You cannot let her get that offensive rebound.

And that turns into a four point play.

When Johnson escaped the double team nearly lost it.

Now sprays open little jumper won't go.

Gets her own miss and then throws it up and is fouled.

No one box for all.

And she followed her shot.

The cardinal rule there blocks out the shooter.

She shot it.

No one even went to her.

So that's a lot.

She got the ball.

Put it back up.

Are you sure you want that replay there?

Jackson almost went back up, but it kind of lost her handle.

Ended up kicking it out.

It worked out perfectly for Barton.

Just a couple small mistakes from these teams to start the second half.

Uncharacteristic mistakes.

You don't get to a championship game by not boxing out.

But I tell you you're not down your free throws.

That'll bode well.

Spring knocks them both down.

That's tough to do in a state title game.

Nerves are rolling.

Knock down your your charity stripe shots.

It's a deep launch.

Got another one.

Gets a screen up top from sledge, freezer up.

She pulls the trigger early.

It was the spray show.

Now it's Wilson gets the steal the feed to Jackson.

Can't get it to go.

And the rebound pulled down by Emily Stevens.

But then she steps out of bounds on the sideline.

That's another turnover.

That's the ninth of the day for the Cougars.

Take a look at the replay.

She gets a screen right there.

No help two.

She gets a screen.

The other defenders got to come out and guard.

You know that's what she wants to do.

Well coach Harmon wants to talk things over with this Cougars.

They trail now by four.

Never led by a touch though.

Right now they're up by four.

Can.

They make this round lunch time.

People ready to get something to eat.

How about, Wendy's support for Arkansas PBS sports comes from Wendy's.

The seasonal menu includes options like the Mushroom Bacon Cheeseburger.

Availability may vary by locations, but what's for lunch?

How a little Wendy's today wants her to sound good, doesn't it?

Right now, Barton's up by four.

She got a chance to add to it.

What?

Danbury.

Brianna.

More.

Give it off to the Maya Wilson.

Wilson has been lights out 22 points.

Leads the way.

She's just taken over.

Thought about the shot.

Shoveled the sleds, but came in too hot.

Good idea.

Sledge wasn't ready for it.

She was going to rebound.

Just the third turnover of the game by Barton in the nearly one freezer.

County spray keeps it composure.

The ball fake the jumper.

Cash money in the end streaking through the kitchen.

My goodness that's her shot right.

She's told off one three today.

But out of that now Wilson wants it three.

She's fouled on the shot.

Couldn't get it to go late on the defensive Wilson make some play.

Yeah they were scrambling.

Kind of fell behind a little bit.

Here's a look at Sprague Gallagher on loose ball.

Gets into the paint.

Shoot you touch sledge on top over long gone.

Didn't bother her.

Bit.

The first free throw was good to tell you about the toughness of the Maya Wilson.

Coach quart talked about her in the summer.

She broke her finger in a game.

It was.

It was not very fun.

Right now she takes it up and continues to play.

Coach, this is a summer.

Why does it matter?

She said, no, I want to play.

That's the type of toughness a competitor, the divine Wilson is Wilson now with 23 points, eight of 16 from the floor, six of 11 from the three point line.

Knocks down.

That free throw lead grows to four.

She has been a game changer for Barton in this pressures causes her county problems sprays able to get it across the timeline the Cougars haven't done the best job of getting it across and then finding the open shooter.

Give Barton credit of getting back in transition.

There's a foul underneath Johnson.

It's going to go against Jackson.

And that's her third.

So if you look at the lineup for Barton Jackson and Wilson both have three fouls.

Sledges three.

And then Fraser County sprays the only one in foul trouble with three.

It's Gilmore's got Bailey baseline jumper.

Nothing but net.

But what this is her county team to shoot that mid-range shot.

Shooting 63% in the half deep.

Three.

The bank is open to winning falls.

It falls and it gets all in.

Largest lead of the game now for Barton 4136.

Spring high off the window.

No.

Skidmore the freshman rebound tried to go back up.

Tipped around Johnson right wing free.

I'll see your three for my own free.

The answer from Quinn Johnson cuts the deficit to do to two 4139 Barton this game has been nip and tuck.

That's been a fun game.

So entertaining skilled skilled girls.

You see him Jakar Jackson to Maya Wilson.

This is a county team to watch the way they've shot the ball today.

They're now 14 of 31 from the floor.

That's 45%.

Three of eight from the three point line.

Not living by the three as much as Barton Barton's already shot 19.

Three pointers seven and 19.

That's 37%.

That's still a good shooting percentage from the three point line.

UAMs health, orthopedics and Sports medicine supports athletic programs and events across Arkansas.

Clinics are located throughout central and northwest Arkansas.

Learn more at UAMs health.com.

Well, if you look at the scoring.

It's mostly to Maya Wilson.

She's got 27 points for Barton Jackson Falls with 11 and in for Izard County at Spray and Bailey both with 12.

You're the point in this game with 445 in the third quarter their two best players Barton's two best players each have three fouls.

Yeah I'm making it a point of emphasis.

Attack them on defense because you know they don't want a foul.

They don't pick a fourth foul.

So I don't know how aggressively they would defense somebody.

So you might get some easy points by attacking them.

And then if you do pick up that fourth foul you know start working on that.

You there's so long a quarter and a half to beat to be played.

And if Barton loses one of those girls to foul trouble could be the story of the game.

It makes you a little lost in the game.

I would attack Barton brings that defensive pressure.

So you're going to have a chance to get up.

There's a steal a counter right here make a foul.

You go straight in gets the foul.

Why don't you see anybody out there coaching super basketball.

That's a she needed to just attacker with her chance had a little pump.

And then when she goes up that's when she drew the foul.

Actually she tried to block the shot.

Shoot.

But you can't do that.

You sure she just can't.

You can't pick up her for foul after Jackson got to be more careful.

Your team needs you out there.

Yancy did a heads up play.

Kind of can absorb that.

Drew that contact.

So for personal fouls on Jackson, she's going to have to come out.

This is huge.

So Jackson the second team second on the team in scoring today will have to give way to Madison Collins the sophomore.

Now all eyes are on Wilson I do everything I can make those other four beat you.

Do not let her even shoot the ball.

Try to get the ball out of her hand and don't let her get it back.

Yeah, face guard looks great.

Just stay right.

Don't talk over.

Don't even let her get the ball back.

They got the freshman, Skidmore, eight, face guarding Wilson.

Trying to go to work looking for that screen.

They got her double.

Stay with it.

Keep Governor Wilson straight to the lane.

Throws up the shot.

Won't go.

The offensive rebound the foul.

Nice job from Smith to be there for the cleanup ahead of the charity stripe.

And that's the question for Barton.

Now who steps up.

Who's going to make some plays for now.

That was a little short in that time.

Zarya Smith she gets a nice rebound.

Aggressive with it picks it up strong gets fouled.

Wilson giving her all you can tell she is gassed I mean she was rolling it.

Everybody was chasing her down the floor.

It's not like but you can see when she drove the defense collapsed got the shot up the offensive rebound.

They won't get the free throw there.

But this one a chance to give a one point lead.

Got that one.

Smith gives Barton the lead time.

Timeouts on the floor with 412 to play in the third.

The first half was so quick.

We've already had three call timeouts in the third quarter 4241 a nail biter from Hot Springs.

We'll be right back.

You had a pretty hard life.

He was an excellent example of the tenacity of Arkansas.

The nine children are with you in little Rock, the most significant female.

They're just a little kid from wherever the.

That's walking through my window.

I didn't feel it was worth it.

Thursday, March 20th at 7 p.m.. We.

It's hard to believe we've got 12 more minutes of this madness.

4241.

But it has been back and forth.

A lot of lead changes.

This is all you could ask for, honestly, in our first championship game of the day.

Started off like, well, maybe this account is going to blow him out.

Didn't see that one coming.

What?

No.

Mark came roaring back and it has been back and forth for the rest of the afternoon.

That's the significant development now with one of the star players Jackson, on the bench for Barton.

Can they survive these next few minutes without Burr on the court.

He's got Bailey wide open.

Easy pick.

Pickens County.

Well they forgot to guard her.

She was open the whole time and everybody was going to throw it.

They're going to throw it to throw it.

And finally they throw it to her and still got the layup.

Bailey's had a great game.

We got a foul on the drive inside.

Wilson is going to be taking a lot of attack to the basket.

She's getting her.

Skidmore is the one who picks up the foul.

That's her second.

4342.

We're stepping aside once more getting late in the first game of the state championship.

We'll be right back.

This month on Arkansas PBS.

Father Brown thinks the wrong man is arrested.

In case you forgotten, I'm the detective round here, and he needs help to read the victim's lewd novel for clues.

Brother, is this really necessary?

A woman is murdered.

Eight or more blows shattered the skull.

And the weapon used was unusual.

The spider could have been deliberately placed in Constance's shoe.

Oh, only on Arkansas PBS.

This broadcast is underwritten in part by.

For over 70 years, Farm Bureau Insurance has offered coverage for automobiles, homes, farms, and lives across Arkansas.

I'm proud to support the Arkansas Activities Association.

More at AFB, Icom.

All right, Arkansas PBS student all star is Hayden Buffini.

She is a guard for Sloan Hendrix.

The junior has a 4.0 GPA, and she plans to attend Arkansas State University to study radiology.

Hayden to thank our Arkansas PBS student all star.

That's an Arkansas State team that's punch their ticket into the big dance for the college basketball program.

Dusty Rogers, the great job for them.

Back to action here in Hot Springs.

First to the charity stripe.

Knocks the first one down the time once more to finish for the eighth time today.

As a matter of fact, I was just about to ask you how many times we've been tied.

Won't get the second one to go.

Bailey gets the board and saves it in.

Heads up play from Tenley Bailey, and now they're trying to beat the pressure spray going straight into the defender.

And she's fouled driving inside it.

That's against sledge.

That'll be number four.

Sledge was still moving a little bit.

Did a good job of just cutting hard to the middle of the court.

So they gave the foul to Smith.

Fresh shot clock now for Izard County.

Tim Johnson's been relatively quiet on the day, but he's in a good job of trying to keep her from getting going.

And now the elbow jumper from spray is short.

Bailey the offensive rebound.

Can't get the second chance to go.

And then it's tapped out.

Last touch my Wilson Bailey with another rebound.

Be her eighth rebound of the day 14 points eight rebounds.

She's flirting with a double double I guarantee you though all she cares about is winning this game.

Entry pass is stolen.

Wilson trying to go in to end the left hand out of control.

Couldn't get it to go.

I'm trying to flash for the steal.

Got to be careful.

If you're Wilson, you already got three fouls.

They kick it over.

Yancey.

No hesitation.

The three is strong.

And the defensive rebound pulled down by Tabb.

More.

Face guarding already there on Wilson.

They don't want her to touch it.

And we got a timeout.

Coach court wants to talk things over.

He's going to try to figure out a way to get Wilson open.

You got to imagine now you've seen who he went straight to his talk with his girls right now trying to get their attention.

Lots.

The camera Jackson on the on the bench right now.

Her cousin Malik Cartwright played at Delta State.

He's now playing overseas.

She's got some athleticism in her blood a good look now at the is a county huddle.

Coach Harmon was talked to the official.

Now he's talking with his girls.

Good chance for him to reiterate what they want to do on defense here.

They've done a pretty good job of keeping the ball out of Wilson's hands.

But I run to double team matter every time she touched the ball for Izard County.

When you look back at some greats during their time, one that comes to mind, Kennedy Cooper might be the best girl player ever come out of her county.

Played at Harding.

And got talent there.

Wilson looking and she kicks it out high to Moore and thrown away.

Yancey going coast to coast.

And the Cougars are backed up by a bucket.

Yes.

Yancey gave out a let's go after that lay up.

It's just the fifth turnover of the game thus far for Barton.

Probably they've given up six points off those five turnovers.

Wilson shot won't go, won't matter.

Foul occurred first.

Ran through the screen.

Didn't see the screen coming and just ran right through it.

When they set that screen the defender who's guarding the person who's screening needs to jump out and be there to help continue with that double team.

It's the fifth, actually the sixth team foul on Izard County this quarter going go to the free throw line.

That's what the fans were yelling.

They were yelling at the officials trying to shoot free throws.

Tap.

Morse got a chance to tie this thing up with the charity stripe.

Izard County's Brianna Fortney, the senior, getting set to check into the game for the first time.

Moore's first free throws of the game.

But what a big moment right in this contest.

Still in the third quarter, but it feels late.

It's been a long quarter.

It really has.

Coaches have been using their timeouts.

You can tell the intensity is racking up a little bit because they're stealing possessions, trying to use every free time to make a point, make a change over there in the huddle, replacing numbers, throwing punches between colleagues to get more.

Can't get the second one to go 1 or 2 for more.

For the tide, it's up for the ninth time.

Hahahahahahaha!

I got a feeling it might be that way again here in a minute.

The way this game has been.

Courtney gets the bounce pass and you can tell it from that 131 zone has Barton all game.

Johnson kicks it to spray.

Tried to go outside.

It's stolen Wilson gets the steal in the end.

Gets it to go.

Motions and confronts another Wilson.

They have applied that pressure all game giving her county credit.

For the most part they've been able to beat the pressure.

Big jump step emphasis there for spray.

But she couldn't get it to go.

Wilson gets a screen, crosses over.

Pulls up free throw line.

Jumper won't go.

Bailey tips it to her teammate.

Didn't get the rebound but a great effort.

Quickly the other way.

Yancey bounce pass.

Tried to go underneath to Fortney but a heads up play from Zaria Smith to knock it away.

Yeah, that was a good look.

She had it.

But Smith a little hustle play got there but deflected out of bounds.

Good look for the layup from Wilson.

Under control.

Gets the job done.

That was important too for spray who's already got three fouls to get out of the way Johnson left wing three two strong but Bailey another rebound her ninth of the day three big separation penny oh it's a rebound leads to a wide open three.

So many times you see that is her county jumps back in front takes the lead less than a minute to go in the third seventh lead.

Change of the game.

Tried to hand off Wilson.

Nearly lost it.

Able to get the loose ball.

Ball fake and she's found on the way in.

That means free throws for to Maya Wilson to see how quick she is the handles that she has.

The crossover just left the defender behind.

The defender was actually falling to the ground and fell into her number three.

The Maya shoot.

Fortney commits the foul there.

She's in the background.

Number three.

Her first foul of the game.

Wilson with a couple of big free throws.

She's got a 30 points in the state title game.

Give her 31.

Four of six from the free throw line.

Now as much as she's had the ball in her hands on two turnovers.

That's impressive.

She's a talented player.

Parts of the great job of taking care of the basketball period.

Only five turnovers from them is her counting now up to 11 turnovers.

And she gets the bounce pass just 10s separating the shot.

Game clock.

Straight to the hill.

Got blocked from behind from sledge.

Good defense for Barton and Wilson.

Trying to go in to end high off the window.

I was back there.

My team was under control.

She just drives down takes her time and the body control split.

The defenders go up with the back and then we got a steal.

But Smith steps out or gets lands out with her back on the sideline.

So it kind of catches a break right in front of us.

Just careless with the ball.

Good.

Take care of the ball.

That's great.

Look at that layup.

14.5 seconds.

Blazer County got a hold for the final shot of the third quarter Quinn Johnson feeds Bailey baseline jumper.

Been there all day.

Bailey makes it pay.

Wilson's got four seconds.

See what she can do at half court.

The heave will go.

We are tied at 50 heading to the fourth and final quarter.

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Fourth quarter action.

Let's take a look back at the previous three quarters.

A lot of action was 50 to 50.

I mean, that's all you can ask for.

The state championship game.

Physicality.

Got off to a quick start.

They were rolling Tennessee Bailey a good game.

But then it's Jakar Jackson to Maya Wilson from Barton.

Wilson just throwing a man left and right.

Unstoppable at times tonight she's got 34 points through three quarters 11 of 22 from the field.

Seven of 12 from the three point line.

Meanwhile Isaac County's knocked down for three of their own four of 11 from the three point line.

50 to 50 with eight minutes to go.

As you look at Barton, it's been Wilson 34 points.

Jackson's been on the bench.

Will she come out in the fourth quarter likely.

So she's got 11.

And then Frazer County they got three in double figures.

Bailey leads the way with 16.

Yancey and spray both with 12 and Quinn Johnson.

She comes to life in the fourth quarter.

She's only got seven, but Martin needs to watch her there.

Clint Johnson averages 18 points on the season and she's only taken four shots today.

One of four from the field.

That one shot she made was a three pointer.

So here we go.

Final eight minutes to decide this one.

There's a chance with all the times we might need more than that.

Yancey.

The feed.

Nice touch.

Pass spray through the lane.

Floats it up.

Good defense.

And it's pulled down by Jackson, who's back in the game.

Behind the back floating up.

And she's fouled.

The athleticism from Dakari Jackson on display.

She's been sitting over there on the bench resting.

And she's ready to go.

She's like a thoroughbred.

She's been in the stall ready to run.

She got on the court.

Just exploded.

She's fast.

Can't get the first free throw that to go though.

The second one would give Barton another lead.

This game has been tied ten times.

West.

Just one of four from the free throw line.

Can't get either of them to go.

Johnson corrals the rebound for Izard County.

They beat the pressure spray.

Slows it down.

Now gives to Johnson.

Yancey launches a three handed her face and she buries it in the buckets.

Is about Yancey.

Give her 15 on the day.

Three of six from deep for Yancey.

She's feeling it.

Shoot 50% from the three point line, I get it.

Let's go.

A reminder, neither of these teams have ever won a state title.

And we got a jam shot wedged up between the backboard and the rim.

Both teams first ever trip to the state title.

They're putting it all on the line.

Well, if you're in your county, that's what you want right there.

You want to make someone else shoot the ball.

If you can't keep Jackson Wilson the ball out of their hands and somebody else shooting it.

Mission accomplished.

Unless you're pretty tall, you want to go out there and get the ball.

I'm proud we got the broom.

It took a second, but they figured it out where the broom was.

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5350 Izard County.

This game has fit the bill.

It's hard to believe this is the first game and it has been a nail biter that's ruled a jump ball.

Possession went to Barton.

They tried to go inside and Sprague jumps in front gets the steal.

Just the sixth turnover of the game for Barton.

They've done a good job with ball protection.

These are County up by a Trey Johnson.

The floater from the elbow gets it to go.

Little runner for 15ft.

When Johnson she's got nine points deep three Wilson to launch it strong.

But she gets her own miss and pulls up inside the arc.

Can't get that one to go.

Bailey the rebound.

She's got a double double.

Spread quickly ahead Johnson open three ball from the corners off the side.

And it's pulled down by London.

Match B and then a foul by Yancey in the back court.

Got the arms tangled.

She's like the effort.

Just a little unfortunate.

It was a good look at Quinn's runner.

And I think she thought she got bumped.

And it was going to be a foul called.

So she was trying to put it up.

Get the free throws.

No foul called.

She gets the runner.

Mission accomplished.

Gets two points anyway both teams now have a player with four fouls.

Jackson's got the ball.

Now she's got four for Barton.

He's got four.

Freezer County and she's been their main three point shooter three of six from deep in the state title game we saw she had no she was not good about late the she did.

She absolutely laid off give Jackson credit realizing that crossed over got an easy open jumper to cut the deficit back down to three.

It's smart to attack her.

Realize that she does not want to pick up that fifth foul and leave the game and she just opened up and let them go.

And the easy bus, easy basket 602 to go.

This has been an exciting matchup.

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Well, the Barton faithful, they've made the trek down to the Spa city.

They are loving it.

Both crowds really have been very adamant in this game.

They've had a lot to cheer about.

Both sides know it's been a well-played game.

They shot the ball well.

They've executed.

Both teams have executed and done.

What they wanted to do is are County with their offense attacking that zone.

They've been getting open jump shots knocking those shots down.

Barton's.

They're just using their athleticism Jackson Wilson for 34 points.

Now she's just been in attack mode.

She was forced to get in that attack mode once Jackson picked up that foul and had to go to the bench.

Then Wilson just took over and, Barton rode her for about four minutes there in the third quarter.

They nearly got Johnson trapped there in the back court.

Then they get the steal tipped away.

Wilson going straight down hill.

Got to be careful.

The Wilson gets the bucket one point game.

This account has got to take care of the ball.

That's the number one goal.

Just take care of the ball and we're going to win this game.

Spray bounce pass.

Bailey.

It's blocked out of bounds.

Last touched by Jackson.

Great effort to get back in transition Jackson keep flying through.

Here's a look at the turnover that leads to easy points for Wilson.

Talley Skidmore had a big three in the game.

The freshman gives it over to Sprague.

Bounce pass Johnson inside the arc.

Jumper too strong but it goes right to Yancey.

They'll reset.

Bailey with the hand on her face.

The baseline is pure to body control.

That time from Bailey.

She is fired up.

What a game it's been for Tenley Bailey.

Jackson lost the handle, gets it back.

They kick it out the tab.

Brianna Moore.

Three ball two strong and Johnson's there.

Going lead.

Caught pass and Tadmor takes it away trying to force it there.

Did Johnson need to put a little air underneath that pass now Wilson free throw line jumper.

It's short and Bailey gets another ball going all the way.

Yancey to the glass basket counts.

And one for the Cougars.

Let's see how she slowed down.

Got under control.

Came to a little stop right there.

Draws the contact.

Able to be strong enough to take that contact and make the shot.

And Yancey completes the three point play.

She and Bailey both have 18 in the state title game.

Zaria Smith brings it head.

Barton's going to try to figure out a way to get Jackson back in scoring again.

She's only had two here in the second half.

Jumping through the lane floats it up.

No but she does what she always does best in getting to the free throw line.

Tenley just came down with her hand that time.

She got up and created a tough shot.

Once you bring that hand down, that makes it pretty easy.

Call.

Quick actually gave that to spray on the contact.

Oh boy.

That's a floor.

That's her for first foul on spray.

She's been big for Izard County.

Jackson knocks down the first.

She needed that after going one for five at the free throw line.

A chance to cut it back down to four.

Gets them both big free throws there for Jackson.

Air.

Wants to talk things over with his team.

You look at your screen the foul trouble.

It's starting to pile up for Izard County.

Yancey and spray, both with four.

And both have been big contributors today.

They can't afford to lose either one of those players.

Well, anytime you get late in the game, there's still plenty of time left.

What do you feel like the message is for both teams?

Well, for Barton, it's easy.

They're going to get the ball into Jackson or Wilson's hands.

That time it looked like they wanted to give it to Jackson to give Wilson a little bit of a breather.

She was worn out.

Jackson got the ball.

Wilson just went to the other side of the court and rested.

And they knew Jackson was going to go to work and make it make a play.

That's exactly what happened.

Frazer County take care of the basketball.

When they have been able to take care of the basketball, they beaten the press and got easy.

Looks good, looks.

But the problem is the turnovers are up to 13 turnovers and that's led to some easy Barton points.

Izard County looking to be inbounds after the timeout from coach court.

They get it over to Yancey.

You're going to have to be careful there in the corner.

Picks up her dribble gets it to spray.

They beat the pressure.

Now Skidmore slows it down.

Dances open right corner three with a hand in her face.

It's short.

Jackson looking to push after the rebound, trying to go coast to coast.

Sprays.

Got four fouls.

Had to hold off and Jackson makes the bucket.

I actually think Wilson got a little bit of a handle that three pointer.

That's why it was short I think she deflected it deflected that ball spray gets across.

They've got a three on one break.

Pull up spray off the backboard.

No scramble for it.

The freshman Skidmore she's got it goes up.

Shot wouldn't go.

And now Wilson the rebound a chance to tie and take the lead three on one.

You'd like to get better than a six foot jumper.

You need a layup right there Jackson going straight up Hill.

And Bailey Fowler.

Bailey just keeps her hands straight on a short.

She probably okay.

Right here first media 337 to go.

This one's coming down to the wire.

Two point game in the two state title game.

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Izard County up by a Bucket on Barton with Jackson at the free throw line.

A chance to tie it up.

But it's going to come down to who makes the free throws.

Who makes the easy shots down the stretch on the game.

Barton 13 of 22 from the free throw line is county's 11 of 13.

Jackson can't get the first struggle for Jackson today at the free throw line.

Now three of eight.

Does go one of two though, so it cuts the deficit to one.

Izard County trying to handle the pressure into the corner.

Johnson she's going to have to feed it ahead.

They've got to Skidmore.

Three on one.

Pull up jumper off the side.

No.

Once again Izard County had numbers elected for the jumper.

And then Sprague comes from behind.

Gets the knocked away.

But they call a kick ball.

Fortune at that time for Barton looked like Izard County had a steal.

But it goes off the foot and out of bounds.

Is it?

County's going to execute better there.

That's 2 to 3 on Lawrence.

And they're settling for a jump shot instead of an easy layup.

There goes Wilson to work floating it up.

Got it to go 38 for Melson.

Now the lead change.

10th of the day.

Right at three minutes left in the contest.

Johnson going straight downhill.

Konate she's going to the line shot.

That's what you have to do.

You have to attack the basket.

Go to the rim first.

Draws the foul finishes the play gives the county the lead and.

Welcome to the Arkansas PBS studios I'm Kennedy Johnson loving and I'm Jennifer Hillman.

We're here to let you know what's happening this March in 2024.

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It's officially the birthday of the Northwest Passage trip.

We realized that, you know, no one's ever actually wrote this thing in one season.

You can be the first ones to ever do this that way.

It's one of those few places over the year.

Truly wild.

How far can we take this?

And when does it become crazy?

Tonight at ten.

I'm.

When I had the opportunity to come, I thought, I'm not going to miss that opportunity.

I look around and all the everybody's got something great.

One gentleman showed me his coffee mugs that he had received as a wedding present, and they were $900, but that surprised me.

Folks are going to love it because, you know, everybody wants to discover something valuable and be surprised.

It's going to be fun to see what all people have been hoarding here in Arkansas, in their attics.

Friday night at ten.

Percent.

Is the county doing a great job on the on the glass.

They've got 16 offensive rebounds out rebounding Barton 41 to 28.

That's the turnovers.

They got to take care of the ball these last two minutes and two seconds.

And you know that's what Barton saying.

Let's go get some turnovers.

They've been turning it over.

We've been getting some steals.

Let's go get some easy points.

Sampson can't get the free throw.

But you get tremendous tries to go baseline lost it gets it back gives it to Wilson for the tie.

No good but an offensive rebound.

They'll reset.

Wilson County and Skidmore those pass over wraparound pass.

They keep it lost it momentarily.

And the bounce gets for Smith.

So that was a huge possession for Barton.

Get the free throw the offensive rebound and the points.

Those are county beats.

The pressure.

Nearly lost it now Johnson deep three right wing off the rim.

Bailey's got a board.

They'll reset with a minute 18.

Johnson to the rack.

Can't get it to go but she's headed to the free throw line.

Johnson tried the three but he said you know what with this car play.

Let's drive.

Let's go to the free throw line.

And is what you have a veteran player and Johnson realizing fourth straight downhill Johnson up to 14 points now really coming alive in the second half.

She's four of five from the free throw line.

Make it 5 or 6.

She pushes the lead out to do this.

Second one's big.

It would still be a one possession game, but it would make it a three point lead.

Gets it to go hit the program and he bounced off the backboard on the timeout.

How about that.

Remember the last time she went to the free throw lunch.

The airball just made two with a minute 16 to go in the state championship game.

Clutch free throw shooting.

So it was just a stoppage of play.

We're back to action a minute 15 to go Barton trails by three.

Is her county trying to hang on.

Jackson shovels it out.

And then Johnson gets the steal.

Momentarily.

They jump on it and we got a timeout.

Wow.

It'll stay with these are County.

What a heads up play by Johnson called the timeout I thought we're going to have a jump ball instead.

Down on the ground loses it gets back on it because timeout.

This game has been exciting to say the least.

And I think what makes it so exciting is the effort that both teams are putting under.

They are leaving it all on the line right now is a county.

They're huddled up there talking about how we're going to break this press, what we have to do to protect the ball, to get the ball across half court.

I would love to see them be aggressive because so many times they've broken the press.

They've had an opportunity to score it.

This time they'll settle for a jump shot, take it to the basket, make them foul.

You try to get a layup and if you go in, if you don't get fouled, that ball's not going to bounce out very far.

When you missed the jump shot, it bounces out to the trailing defender.

It's a good point.

And for Barton you know they're ramping up their press right here.

They're thinking we need a steal.

We need a turnover.

Anything to get that ball back.

Jackson who survives playing with four fouls Wilson she had her third foul but she hasn't picked up another one.

So she's in good shape.

Look for Wilson to be very aggressive here and try to pick off a pass.

Look how calm is her.

County girls are there looking up in the stands.

They were just pointing out some of their friends in the stands today.

Look, there's someone so they're laughing, playing Lewis.

That's what you want.

If there is her counting, Barton needs a stop.

At the very least, they'd love a turnover 62 seconds remaining.

Stevens gets it in to Quinn Johnson.

Now Skidmore picks up her dribble.

Gives to Johnson.

Johnson gets it across the timeline but now she's trapped.

Has to lob it.

Finds Stevens.

Wilson guarding Stevens picks up her dribble.

Now she's in trouble.

And we got a jump ball.

It'll stay with Izard County.

But Wilson with a heads up defensive play.

Kept waiting for Coach Harmon to call a timeout.

He was keeping an eye on it.

Both teams with one timeout left Nancy gives off to Johnson.

They're trying to double bounce pass to Yancey.

And we got a foul.

Just the fourth team.

Foul against Barton.

That one's on on a more with 36 seconds to go ten on the shot clock.

The pressure from Barton is so intense.

They had Tenley Bailey all by herself underneath the basket.

She's jumping up and yelling.

They finally saw her but they couldn't get it to her because of the pressure on the ball.

It's hard to get it through the defense of Barton.

Referee who's going to go take a look.

What are we looking at here.

We've got some of the fans saying it should be Barton's ball on the jumper.

And.

But Peter count the foul.

That was a foul called right there.

Oh that's right.

They called the foul on more.

So the officials Billy Sarah Robert Harmon have done a great job officiating our game today.

Inbounds to Skidmore.

The shot clock reset.

So now they have to foul.

That means free throws for her county.

One of them will push it out to a two possession game in behind.

They did a good job of denying Quinn Johnson.

They were wanting to get the ball into Johnson's hand.

And if you're going to foul somebody, you don't want to foul Quinn Johnson.

She was strong.

She can hit two clutch free throws.

Skidmore was zero for two today.

The freshman two big free throws here gets the first one to go.

Got a free throw.

Into the house.

She hit some big shots early in this game I think that helped loosen her up a little bit.

Skidmore gets some balls and she's loving it.

Fist pump five point lead.

Barton's going to score quickly.

Let's get to the basket Jackson.

Nice find Smith.

They're easy to coach.

Cold calls a timeout 25 seconds to go.

Back to a one possession game that's executed as well as you can do right there for Barton.

Just get to the basket.

Get two points.

Took hardly any time off the clock.

So it's back to a one possession game.

Aggressive on defense I don't think you want to intentionally foul because how good your defense has been how many turnovers they've created throughout the day.

Just be very aggressive on defense.

And look if you get called for fouls so be it.

But I don't want them to go out there and just start hacking and intentionally foul without trying to get a steal right here.

Because this defense, we've seen it.

It's capable enough of getting a turnover.

Absolutely can see him.

He's talking to him right now about that press break the offense what they want to do to get the ball in them.

Once you get it in get it across half court.

The question is do you attack or are you just wanting to run some time off the clock?

You're up three.

I would love for them to break the press.

Go attack!

Go!

Score!

Make it a two possession game.

Get up!

Five.

Try to attack and at least get to the free throw line.

If nothing else.

That's right.

Don't let your foot off the pedal right now.

For Barton defensively they played a great game.

They forced 13 turnovers.

You want to try to get a steal quick if you're Barton.

And if not then you got a foul.

At 25 seconds left you can play defense for a good 10s you go about the timeline right then if you get it across and you feel like you're not going to get a steal, go ahead.

But if you've got a player trapped again, might as well try to get that steal.

So these are County.

They got Bailey hanging out, run over her own rim.

You let Quinn Johnson throw it in.

I bet they tried to get it right back into her hands.

Oh, no.

Double pass right back to her.

They get it to Johnson.

They love it over to Yancey.

Still got to get across the timeline.

They looked at double.

Yancey picks up her dribble.

Gets to Johnson.

They got a foul.

They thought they did.

Not going to now more.

Excuse me Wilson picks up the foul with 13 seconds to go a lot of time came off.

And Johnson's a good Free-Throw shooter.

Yeah that's okay.

They did.

They tried to get a steal.

They try to break turnovers.

Didn't happen.

Probably could have found a little earlier.

They thought they did but they didn't call the foul.

The only thing the only bad part for Barton I think you fouled the wrong one.

Johnson knocks down the first one.

Big sigh of relief to leave is now four for the Cougars in 16 of 19.

From the free throw line for Isaac County.

That's the difference in the game.

Gets them both 17 of 20.

Barton's going to need to score quick.

They don't have any more timeouts.

How about this is a count.

He's made 17 free throws and only 20 attempts.

Barton attempted six more and made fewer free throws.

15.

Jackson brings it to hand.

Shot clock winding.

Now lost.

It gets he gets the steal.

She's found and Izard County can feel it.

That should do it.

Think is or County can start celebrating.

Which is one of the few mistakes we've seen from Jackson for Wilson this afternoon.

She could have handled the ball pretty much all day long, and that was just the fifth turnover between those two combined.

Mackenzie Yancey, Tenley Bailey and Quinn Johnson each with 18 points apiece.

Always spray on the bench after she fouled out.

Free throw won't go for Nancy, so it will remain a two possession game either way.

And right now it's going to take a miracle for Barton.

Second was good for an 86 point lead.

They'll roll it in.

Probably need a three now.

Half court likely Wilson launch it quick as you can.

Pulls up deep three off the rim.

No.

And that'll do it is her caddy for the first time in school history.

Our state champions.

What a team effort.

We saw two great players in Wilson and Jackson for Barton.

But it was the entire team for Izard County.

And they're celebrating as a team as they should.

7266 The Cougars are your state champions.

We'll get you to the trophy presentation when we come back.

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Are you ready for Quiz Ball 2025?

It's the 40th year of the most exciting academic competition in Arkansas, and it is live right here on Arkansas PBS.

It's the Arkansas Governor's Academic Competition, quiz bowl, state championship, schools from all over the state square off right here in this studio to see who will come out on top.

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Saturday, April 26th, starting at 9 a.m., when the students I'm the Rock walked along with my mom.

You cried ripple, but we had to walk it alone.

It kind of tells a story about how we used to live.

We loved it very much.

Back in Arkansas, my partner farmed.

The number one choice for this ballot was Daisy Bates.

It looks like Johnny Cash walks the line.

So congratulations to those two great Arkansans.

We want our memories through our statue to tell the story of Arkansas.

Most of my figures that I create on my own, most of those stories are about destiny.

She was somebody that wouldn't let go until she saw some progress.

These amazing artists who have so much to say and have so much influence all around the world, came from these very humble beginnings.

Everybody here at the Johnny Cash Show that night, he was only singing to them.

Grew up in rural Arkansas.

Blue collar Americana.

That's so they're just a little kid from wherever.

Thursday, March 20th at 7 p.m..

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And you may be making.

Desert County claims A2A girls state championship for the first time ever in his or county history.

Smiles all around.

What an effort.

It was a nip and tuck.

Tightest game in a long while.

We're really good.

State title finish with a lot of lead changes back and forth.

And in the end is are county.

Knocks down some free throws and wins the state championship.

First won in school history David Harman the head coach joins us now.

Coach first one.

How's that feel.

Oh man it's awful exciting exciting.

Especially when girls.

We had been here in 2008 with boys and I was fortunate to coach that bench with coach McDaniels.

He's my assistant now for the girls and we won at the end and boys.

And then he's one of the in his head coach from 2000.

That team on the boys side of it is a it doesn't get old.

It is very very exciting.

Each and every time you get this opportunity, this coach you talked about, you won a Gulf state championship.

You won the boys basketball championship.

This one obviously your first for the girls.

You've been around the game a long time.

Again how does this one feel?

Like said it's just like the first one.

I mean, coming into this game tonight, I'm just as nervous as the first game ever.

Coach 75 years ago.

And it is just it's beyond words.

It's just unreal.

These kids have worked so hard for the last six years, nobody deserving of it.

And hats off to Martin as well.

They have got a great team.

They're little bitty young ladies looking flat, score the basketball and we had a home school all night long.

Well coach, thanks so much for your time.

Go celebrate with your team.

Thank you.

Granulation we got Megan Johnson I not make Johnson.

Sorry.

Yeah.

Quick Quinn Johnson joining us.

She's standing by.

Let's go and bring her in.

Quinn.

You can put that on real quick.

Quinn.

That's state titles.

Got to feel really good right now I want to know about those free throws.

I saw you you airball two free throws.

You laughed it off.

You looked at one of your teammates like I don't know what just happened.

And then he made every free throw after that.

To never do that again ever.

How'd you shake it off.

Well, this year, my free throw percentage was terrible until postseason, I finally, I don't know, I guess I just calm down.

I don't that happens often in practice.

So much.

My teammates are really special.

They really are.

So looking at them, it calms me down.

Quinn, you know, we talked about on the broadcast, you were held in check for the first part of the game.

The fourth quarter.

You turned it on.

What was going through your mind there in the fourth quarter?

It's time to go.

It was time to go.

Calm down and just play.

Well.

That's awesome Quinn.

Congrats on the win.

Go celebrate with your team.

Thank you.

Congratulations.

Here's a look at some of the stats from today's game.

Very even.

Field goal percentage 42% for Dessert County 40% for Barton, three point shooting percentage.

Barton took a lot more, but 49%.

Where is your county?

Knocked down almost 38%.

Rebounding the hit the glass did a really good job.

And the turnovers you know early in the third I think I said it was right around 1213 turnovers.

They took care of the ball in the fourth quarter and that was a big part of this game.

They had to handle the defensive pressure and contain Jackson and Wilson.

They did it for the most part.

They weathered the storm and the Cougars, with some offense from Bailey and company, pick up the big state title win.

And you take a look at Wilson and Jackson.

They combined for 57 of the 66 Barton points.

They were pretty much unstoppable to Maya Wilson with 38 points Jackson had 19 total points.

But it was a team effort.

Like I said earlier you had 18 apiece for Quinn Johnson, Tenley Bailey and also, Mackenzie Yancey.

Actually, Yancey got an extra point there and had 19 points and 12 for three.

So four different players in double figures.

Fraser County, what a game it was.

Back and forth, the Cougars and Bears in a battle.

But it was the Cougars that outlasted the bears in a staple state title game.

What a finish for Izard County as they claim the two state title.

You know visit Arkansas High school sports.com is your county for your champi and chip gear.

You want to take home some of that?

It's a day they'll never forget.

First state championship in school history.

Well, we got one more, at least in the short turnaround for two.

A state title game for the boys.

Tucker Mountain.

East points at County.

The Warriors going four back to back.

Tuckerman trying to knock them off.

They've already beat them once this year.

Should be a lot of fun.

That's going to do it for our first state title game of the day.

It's Isaac County 7266 over Barton for their first ever state title.

They're watching the Centennial Bank State Basketball Championships on Arkansas PBS sports.