That is that is the.

Welcome in to Bank Oak Arena for the Centennial Bank state basketball championships on Arkansas PBS sports.

It's the final game of the night.

And for the second time this year, Melbourne and Chelsea will face it off.

We say hello courtside Jamie Brazil alongside Justin Hickory.

These two teams have played twice, but this time it's for all the marbles.

Yeah, a lot more on the line tonight.

Obviously we'll see a ramped up intensity, maybe see wrapped up ramped up nerves a little bit too JB we'll see how it goes tonight.

See how they handle the pressure.

They're going to have three games concluded it tonight and the one previous a lot of fun high octane offense from both sides.

Yeah absolutely.

Saw some great shooting in this one without a doubt.

And there's Corey Sanders from the corner for three.

She was red hot in this game and had a game high number of points leading her team to the title.

She was your MVP in this one as Lamar beats previously undefeated Dover for the state title in three girls basketball.

We had a couple of good ones earlier today.

Really looking forward to this one tonight and the games to come beyond today.

So we've got four more tomorrow, four more coming up on Saturday and looking at the Friday schedule.

The Queen of Pulaski Academy, speaking of undefeated girls, haven't lost a game yet this year either.

Moralton and Mills ought to be a war.

You got Greene County and Farmington.

Farmington girls have been dominant with one loss on the season, and they've got an outstanding freshman.

And Benton and Maumelle should be phenomenal.

Looking forward to it coming up on Saturday.

Yeah we got Fayetteville North side of again.

These are the heavyweights Bryant Springdale the boys game and then the one eight games to conclude our championship weekend.

West side and Earl and Mark tree and Earl both Earl boys and girls team trying to win for both times.

And here we go.

Second half.

Excuse me.

First half Tip-Off coming up right after this.

This broadcast is underwritten in part by.

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 proudly 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 and UAMs is a proud supporter of Arkansas PBS.

Sports UConn's health provides orthopedic and sports medicine care across Arkansas, supporting athletes and teams throughout the state.

Find out more at you.

And that's back on.

When the students I'm the Rock walked along with my mom.

You cried with them, 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.

I'm a cotton farm.

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 statues 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 at the Johnny Cash show that night, he was only singing to them.

Grew up in rural Arkansas, blue collar Americana.

That's there.

Just a little kid from wherever.

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

Right here on Arkansas PBS.

Welcome back to Bangkok Arena.

It's almost go time.

Here's the starting lineup presented by Winter Rock automotive.

Tyler Bell, Morris Washington, Chris Wilkins, Jerian Long, and Jeremiah Jacob.

Number 12 long.

He's going to be a player to watch tonight.

For Melbourne.

It's Hayden Edwards.

He's the mainstay in the rotation for the Bearcats.

Collin Teague, Malcolm Hammack, Tanner Williams and Brennan Burch round out the starting.

Five.

Starting lineups have been announced.

Let's take a look at how Osceola got here.

Subiaco Academy 5147, then Helena West Helena 74 to 51.

Really?

None of these games competitive.

Elkins 5137.

They're up by 17 at the half.

They rolled into the championship game to take on these Melbourne Bearcats.

Player to watch for them.

Jerian long to six for senior 15 points and nine rebounds a game for Osceola Seminoles.

Jerian long his dad Jerry.

He's actually a two time state champion as well in the sport.

So he comes from a family of championships.

And let's take a look at Melbourne and their road to the finals.

Lincoln 6159.

So a tight one out of the gate then dominated Prescot by 35 and Lamar by 36.

In that game Williams and Edwards 23 each and again up 4321 at the half.

Both these semifinal games were over at the break basically.

JB and so we will see if that goes this way tonight.

I'm guessing a little more competitive.

Hayden Edwards 16.6 points a game, 8.9 rebounds a game, nearly four assists per game.

And he shoots 56% from the field and 43% from three.

How do you do?

Not that good.

I can tell you right now.

And here we go.

To get it underway and jumping center.

You got it.

It's going to be Malcolm Hammack, the six five senior against Jerry horn, the six four senior for Osceola.

Osceola in the whole whites and Osceola in the blacks.

Here we go left to right starting for the Seminoles.

They want to set up some offense.

They're going to move fast paced.

That's the name of the game for them Melbourne again going to have to limit the second chances.

Handle the defensive pressure.

Seminoles first jump shot of the game two strong off the backside from Tyler Bell.

And Edwards pulls down the boards looking to push too fast ahead of the pack.

Malcolm Hammock a little out of control.

That's the first turnover.

The game.

There's your adrenaline rush, right?

You got to play under control in this setting and it's hard to get your nerves down.

You want to attack attack, attack.

And you feel like you got an opportunity there and throw one away for a turnover.

And again shot clock issue here.

They're going to clean that up.

We've had a few problems with that throughout the game so far.

Not significant but 1 or 2 maybe a game.

So they'll get that reset and go.

Good crowd on hand here.

Melbourne and their red fans over there behind the bench and Osceola in the purple.

There's a good crowd on hand as well in the girls match up.

Phenomenal Lamar.

And now it's over there into a man I travel very very well.

Still looking for her first bucket of the game Jeremiah Jacobs guarded out of by Colin Teague.

By the way, his dad's the girls basketball coach at Bryant.

Long with it.

Kicks it over left wing shot clock winding down a little bit deep three Washington rims out.

Battle for the board.

Out of bounds.

Last touched by Osceola.

Melbourne will have it back.

Let's look at it.

Coach Logan Bailey previous girls coach at Cabot Logan Bailey actually the college roommate with Brock Winters.

Good friend of yours there.

Just never heard of it.

Jason Harris, Reginald Johnson and Michael Durham.

Our officials tonight as well wanted to mention them.

Yeah.

The left hand floater gets it to go Hayden Edwards right on cue with the names.

First bucket.

The really good find inside.

Got open space downhill into the paint.

High percentage look pays off.

Haven't had a chance to see Oakley's tight defense.

Just hit and made a bucket.

Bearcats coming out a little different.

Look defensively there's a deep three and a bucket there.

Now get down deep shot gets them on the board not bring the pressure early is Osceola.

They laying back and play halfcourt deep Tyler Bell opening the scoring for the Seminoles right wing three pointer.

Put them in front.

Lob out high Melbourne.

Nice touch pass.

Kick it out.

Left wing.

Thought about the three trying to drive inside.

Kicks it around.

Swing pass right wing.

In the corner.

Trying to drive.

Doubled up a little bit.

Nice find Edwards.

Can't get the teardrop to go.

Stays with it though.

Trying to keep it alive.

But he throws it to Morris.

Washington Athletic play Washington in the end.

Can't get it to go.

Melbourne looking to push after the miss in transition.

Birch feeds the hammock.

Let go but he's headed to the free throw line.

Play on that last possession down by Melbourne.

And they have pressing the issue there.

There's head coach Brian Bazemore.

But man I think a missed opportunity there for the Bearcats I think everybody thinks that it was a brilliant pass underneath.

They just could not make it pay.

Edwards couldn't finish it but a fantastic pass by Hammond.

And now they get another opportunity this time at the free throw line.

Free throws good there by Hammack six five seniors Malcolm Hammack.

He does a good job of attacking in the paint getting the right spots.

Clean up guys 68% on the season 540 to go all square at three apiece.

Gets most puts Melbourne back in front.

So a bucket to begin to free throws now for Melbourne.

And the only shot made so far for Oshawa.

I just saw Coach Bazemore a moment ago.

It's his third year at Osceola.

How about Logan Bailey in his first year at Melbourne getting into the state championship game.

Kind of set the bar a little high there coach.

No kidding.

Fadeaway jumper from long off the back rim.

No good.

They're going to try to double after the rebound to no avail.

And now pushes ahead to hammock.

And he's blocked off the backboard.

Wow.

Jerian long flashing the athleticism.

He went up and rejected that one.

Pinned it off the backboard.

There's some dudes in this game.

There's no doubt.

Fun to watch no question.

Oh mine Wilkins spin move pull off.

Can't finish the job too strong.

And Albert's got the board and let him play.

Wilkins got into the chest.

There.

The defender had him send him flying.

No call.

Tanner Williams kicks it out.

Left wing.

Brennan Birch too strong on the triple try.

And the rebound.

Tracked down by Jerian Long.

He's been everywhere on the defensive side.

Birch 35% from three was already heading the other way J.B. he thought that was good for little Steph Curry, Yeah, he was hitting the other way.

And Washington looking for some space gives it off.

Tyler Bell wants another three and he buries it.

Two threes for two.

And he's got six.

All six of Osceola eight points.

And the lead is two for number two.

Tries to go for the steal.

Couldn't get it.

Bounce pass from Birch.

They'll kick it over into the corner now Williams with a nice lane puts it up off the glass.

It in.

But the two footed jump stop there under control.

Gets under balance and kisses off the glass to tie things up.

His first basket of the game.

Melbourne does a good job of attacking downhill, moving, knowing the ball movements there creates those open looks.

Jerian roll picks up his dribble, has to kick it down at the elbow through contact.

Throws it up.

Got it to go Tyler Bell.

He's got eight.

Colin Teague for Melbourne.

Bringing it ahead.

Seminoles back up by a bucket.

Birch now baseline.

That was cut off from Edward's back.

It goes three more.

Bring Birch knocks it down Franklin.

He was sure that one was good too.

That one actually was though.

His first basket of the game puts the Bearcats on top.

Nine eight Melbourne all you break in the next stoppage of play 310 to go in the opening quarter.

Senior recurring theme with Jumpman uniforms.

Bearcats have him Osceola at Nike school.

Nice bucket inside there.

Going up and strong for Jerry long.

That was really nice play.

Very patient two didn't try to do too much.

Gives Osceola the lead back there.

Cats trying to respond Collin Teague he gets double gets tipped away.

That defense out high causing problems a little bit now Brendan Birch deep three left wing that one short.

Jerian long.

Another rebound.

Pretty ambitious shot there.

Well behind the three point line.

We're going to again shot clock issue.

And we're going to get the media timeout as they sort that out.

234 left in the first quarter Osceola leading at 10 to 9.

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

The Future of Arkansas PBS, its programs, and its irreplaceable purpose all rests on a strong foundation of community support.

Help us continue to impact lives for generations to come.

Keep good going.

With a tax deductible donation of just $5 a month.

Visit my aarp.org/donate to learn more.

This broadcast is underwritten in part by Centennial Bank, supports communities across Arkansas, and is a proud supporter of the Arkansas Activities Association and Arkansas PBS sports, providing financial services since 1999.

Member FDIC.

More at my 100 com.

Support for Arkansas PBS sports comes from Wendy's.

The seasonal menu includes options like the Mushroom Bacon Cheeseburger.

Availability may vary by location.

Well, that sounds scrum diddly bumptious.

But after a long day of work, I can't think of anything better.

Back to action.

234 to play in the opening quarter.

Seal up ten nine.

Leading the way.

It's your man, Tyler Bell.

Eight points.

Two points for Jerian long.

And then for Melbourne they got four players in scoring column Edward Williams and Hannah Keech with two and then three for Birch and Bell, three of four, two for two from long range.

He's been he's been clutch for them early.

It's always tough in a state title game.

By the way they made it eight times.

They've won now the last seven times six of the last seven state title.

That's a high percentage of winning in the big dance.

Great steal there by Tanner Williams.

And then the Bearcats throw it away on the other end playing a little too fast.

Hi Lawrence.

The sophomore couldn't come up with it over seven out of bounds.

They push that tempo on the right defensively.

Try to speed you up.

You get the takeaway.

Then try to go a little too fast.

Problems there.

Ty Lawrence is checked into the game for Melbourne.

That last stoppage of play.

Here's Tyler Bell.

Also kale break into the game for the first time.

The six four senior ball knocked out of bounds.

It's going to be off of Osceola.

That was cash Spann the junior also in for Osceola couldn't handle that one.

Turnover gives it back to Melbourne.

They force now their second turnover of the game.

And then there's a near steal.

Almost lost it.

He did lose it.

Scramble.

It's a jump.

It'll stay with Melbourne.

That was nearly disastrous.

Yeah.

Ty Lawrence has had a tough start.

He had a ball thrown out of his range and it goes out of bounds.

And now he dribbles himself into a near turnover and ends up with a jump ball that was completely unforced.

He saw a couple of defenders and sort of freaked out a little bit, dribbled himself into trouble.

Got to get that out of there quick.

Will feed it over Hayden Edwards corner try Brennan Burch three ball rims out.

Offensive rebound.

Kale break.

Trying to get rid of it.

They doubled him in the paint.

Nice find underneath to close Edwards rainbows over the backboard.

And then it's last touch out of bounds off of Osceola.

So Melbourne will keep it on there in Tyler Bell is human after all.

Yeah.

Couldn't quite come up with that one.

But boy they're pressure defense making everything hard for Melbourne Osceola leading by one.

And they're making things tough on the Bearcats right now.

Melbourne's second title appearance.

It never won it.

Birch off the curl.

Bang from three.

Well that ain't hard.

Birch is feeling it.

That's his second made long range jumper.

Averages 11 a game.

He's got six.

He is the sharpshooter.

Coach Bailey talked about his three point prowess and in a response into the game cash Spain cash money for three.

So back the lead goes to Osceola with a minute to play in the first quarter.

They'll go into the corner ball fake Tanner Williams back out.

Hi to Lawrence Melbourne looking to find the open shooter.

That's Birch.

Left him open again.

Off balance too strong and Jerian long corrals the rebound Tyler Bell bringing it ahead for Osceola.

10s separate the shot in the game clock.

Bell looking for that screen gets it.

Thought about the three now he kicks it out long.

The ball fake.

He stepped back.

Pulls out that one.

Short offensive rebound span goes up.

It will go.

And Edwards has got it for Melbourne.

They got a chance to hold for the final shot I think Edwards blocked that one down low.

And you're right Bearcats need to pull this one out.

Be smart Edwards going to go to work though.

Shot up and good with 11 seconds to the downside is Osceola is going to get another look here down by one.

Didn't take enough time off.

So Bell likely going to be the one to take the shot with three seconds behind the back.

Step away three.

Buries it in the basket Tyler Bell have a first quarter.

Welcome to the state title game.

Seminoles up by two after one.

Wow.

And that's the Tom Brady rule right there.

Don't go too quickly.

Don't leave him too much time.

And they casually brought up the floor Tyler Bell knew what he wanted the whole time.

He wanted a bucket.

And he got it 11 for Tyler Bell in the first quarter.

Are you ready for Quiz Bowl 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 Governors 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.

Don't miss a single question.

Tune in or stream on the PBS app.

Saturday, April 26th.

Starting at 9 a.m..

This broadcast is underwritten in part by Summer Woods Sports Complex in Bryant features four courts across two gyms located off Interstate 30, offering space for tournaments, practices and training.

Proud to support the Arkansas Activities Association and Arkansas PBS.

More at Summer woods Sports.com.

Welcome back to Banco Arena, JT Brazil alongside Justin.

Adrian.

You know what time it is, Justin?

It's trivia time.

What is the record for the most made three pointers by a team in a season in state history?

I'll tell you the answer here in just a moment.

Guesses?

I have no clue.

There's so many things I don't know.

JB where do I begin?

Eight minutes to go here.

Starting second quarter play.

Melbourne trailing by two.

We'll see a slow start in the second quarter with the ball after making them.

Big three pointer by Tyler Bell.

And all thanks to Tyler Bell.

They've got the lead again.

Jerian long going to work.

Splits the defense tries to battle for the rebound.

And he's going to be rewarded with the basketball.

Last touched by Melbourne underneath.

Look at Bailey getting a little frustrated over there on his sideline.

I don't know if it's what the officials or his team.

Washington gets it in.

Bell spin move traveled first turns it over.

Just the third of the game for the Seminoles.

Now looking to apply some pressure out of that to start the second half.

This is where Osceola can really wreak havoc defensively.

Got to be careful Brennen Burch he's in trouble behind.

Floats it ahead.

They beat the pressure that's tied Lawrence Hill.

Now bring it out.

Looking to go to work in the paint.

Picks up his dribble lobs it out.

It's stolen.

Dangerous pass Christopher Wilkins jumped around.

Yeah Lawrence has had a tough run here so far.

Be honest with you.

There's a three pointer straight away.

Nope.

But a nice clear away by Bray.

But yeah Lawrence has got to get his emotions under control here.

There's another near turnover and it is a relentless.

And then Kash Span he's blocked on the other end.

Good defense in transition from a man Kyle Teague.

It looks like Coach Bailey wants to talk things over.

Taking a look at this rejection came out I mean he rose up and said no sir forget about it.

All right let's go back to the trigger.

Coach made three pointers a state history game.

I want to know the most blocked shots.

Now after that one it's about 343 Solana.

That's a lot of threes for the shooting twos that season.

That's remarkable.

That's a lot of points.

Good gracious.

How many points is it JB three quarter three times three.

It's going to be in the thousand 100 something maybe.

But Nash for three 912 to 1129 oh 1029 10.96 at the 11.

That was my bet.

You would have got it.

I'm sure.

1614 LCL up.

Those are the numbers that matter.

1640.

That's the math we need.

That's right.

And that adds up to be 30, by the way.

But and if you look too early, this team, it was an 8172 game.

And these two teams played combined for 173 points.

Goodness.

It's a high octane offense from both sides floating that one up for Melbourne.

Brendan Birch will go gets his own miss and get it's knocked away.

Osceola forcing another turnover the fifth of the day.

These guys it's almost like they're playing with 15 arms out there.

I mean there's it seems like there's a hand in the passing lane.

There's just nowhere to go that half the time.

Osceola Defense that's been the name of the game for Bryant baseball.

The head coach three ball trying for Morris Washington rims out Melbourne looking to push Edwards.

He has to pick up his will.

Nearly lost it did lose it but it was a foul on Morris Washington that's why.

And Melbourne will have it on the sideline.

Good thing Sam Lane, Democrat-Gazette reported by left had a cap on his water.

Might have had a wet computer there and is we'll never good no hope there help him out do.

But I'm protected by this Arkansas PBS sports monitor.

Well, you know, earlier we saw Kyle Sutherland getting a handful of passes towards him out of bounds.

Melbourne in the paint.

We'll kick it around.

It's Tanner Williams back over the left wing Colin Teague lost it Osceola six.

Turnover the gay and then they throw it away.

Hayden Edwards slowing things down a little bit is pressure.

Defense is cause problem.

We're going to stop it to play.

Oh no I don't like to see this Malcolm Little shake it up.

At the end of that play he landed hard on that left elbow I think is the issue there.

And go get a look at it.

And Caleb Bray's going to come on for him.

That would be a big blow down Amazon 11 in the semifinal Amex playing well 12 points a game this year.

And they're going to take him over and let the trainer look at him.

That's that's not good.

He's holding that well maybe a risk maybe left wrist.

Yeah that's unfortunate answer.

Big shot Hayden Edwards the triple tray knocks it down.

That is fortunate Edwards 43% from three this year.

Just ridiculous.

That is at some good good numbers versus normal three point shooting guy right a little bit low percentage.

But he puts up more.

But whenever Hayden Edwards launches from perimeter distance he is lethal.

Long a little bit out of control.

But he was fouled first while running the basket.

Not a lot there from what they've been let go.

Yeah 56% by the way on the year from Edwards.

From outside or from the floor rather that is I haven't seen anybody shoot it that well so far this year.

So the numbers I've seen especially at guard.

Right.

Well you're gonna have a paint guy that can do maybe those numbers, but if you make 43 from three, that helps.

Makes it easier to shoot 56 shots.

Switch up the game for you, right?

Surely does.

There's a free throw miss by Jerian long.

You know, I think that's the part that's lost a lot of times when you got a guy that can shoot three and he's good at it, you got to come out.

And Gordon that allows his dribble drive game to open up.

And Edwards is a three left Edwards is a three level score.

So he can do it for just about anywhere.

Boy missed opportunity for Osceola to miss free throws and the ball poked away at midcourt.

I can't believe Nicole fouled there.

They get the steal though Washington he's blocked.

They keep it in and save it.

Seminoles trying to capitalize off the turnover.

Corner three.

That one short.

Another offensive rebound Washington doing it all.

His shot won't go.

He gets another one and throws it up and in.

Are you kidding guys.

Washington.

That's effort.

That is I thought Edwards got fouled initially but they let him go and listen.

They got a lot of contact going around the basket down there.

Two.

Hey listen it's a lot more esthetically pleasing to let a couple of aggressive teams play it out.

But again I thought the poke away midcourt might have resulted in a foul.

Teague hands it off in the middle right hand floating it up.

Bucket for Karl Bray the senior for three gives Melbourne the lead 1918.

Back and forth we go a little teeter totter action was the 12th lead change already.

This has been a fun one.

And again very intensely played game.

And I get the Bearcats credit.

Playing it's Osceola would be miserable.

These guys are so intense defensively.

It's tough on gets his defender on the deck.

Goes straight to the rack.

Can't get it to go.

It's last touched by Karl Bray.

He hit the deck earlier.

That swamped it out of place.

And he was basket underneath the basket.

Christopher aggressive just wild shot up there.

And Bray stopping.

Let the defenders fly by like Tom cruise and his fighter jet Lynn the big fly by and just get that bucket with the brakes on Christopher Wilkins tries to find Anthony Brown underneath but he lost it out of play.

He found him Anthony just couldn't find the ball.

It's a nice pass and unfortunately couldn't hold on to it.

Set a couple of really good passes.

Fumbled away here today.

One from each team was dandy right there.

Kale Carraway checks into the game for the first time.

Now for Melbourne.

And there's that Osceola pressure again.

They got four defenders now in the front court on the back court trying to beat the pressure.

Nice jump from Colin Teague.

Kind of kick it out.

It was taken away and saved back in play to Melbourne.

Wow what a heads up play there by Kyle Carraway.

That looked like that was a short turnover.

Now Colin Teague into the paint.

Carraway trying to go to work kicks it out.

That's a deep try.

Williams for three off the mark and the rebound to Osceola.

Back and forth we go.

We'll give you another break at the next stoppage of play.

Under for media.

Anthony Brown trying to kick it.

Saved in by Tyrese James.

They call tip in James and he didn't tip that in but he saved it.

That ball was tipped out by Melbourne off of the official on the sideline.

It'll be out off of the Bearcats.

So Osceola will have the ball with 20 on the shot clock.

When we come back it's this month in passport on the PBS app.

My name is Agatha Christie.

I'm a novelist.

My manuscript has been stolen by one of you.

We're not going to stop investigating, homie.

You couldn't have just started a book club, could you?

We got the body and a witness to go on the target.

The family touches a nerve.

These and other shows from Arkansas PBS are available with passport on the PBS app.

This broadcast is underwritten in part by Everett Buick.

GMC provides vehicles to Arkansas families and supports local organizations.

Community involvement has been part of our story for generations.

Proud to support the Arkansas Activities Association and Arkansas PBS sports.

More at Everett BGM, KGW.com.

All right, let's take a look at our Arkansas PBS student All-Star, Rylan Robbins from Flip It got a 4.0 to Flip it 4.0 plans to play college basketball and obtain a degree in education.

Let's hear it for Rylan Robbins.

Get it done on the court and in the classroom.

That's big time.

That's up to two for Osceola.

A coach from space for talked about how these guys are highly academic.

That's his goal right?

Get these guys good basketball players a chance to play collegiately the next level.

Here's a few of these guys Darren Long he's had some college interest.

Yeah.

Love to play at that next level.

Well they're getting it done on the court there on the 17 to 18 run here and trying to get another win.

That's going to mean the most down by one right now.

Title bell been the hero thus far.

Once another three.

That one's off the side.

No good out of bounds.

It'll go to Melbourne even that play there.

Caraway is in great position.

Goes up I got a rebound.

Maybe not.

You got to work for man.

Everything is tough.

Osceola is just all over everything.

Another steal?

Almost saved away.

But that's what they're doing there, causing all kinds of problems.

I got to get a call.

It's the second.

It's complete mayhem out here.

That's right.

That's what they want.

That's the calls.

All that kind of intensity and increase that pressure.

Caraway.

The left handed feeds money.

Caraway, who came to scramble, scramble scramble save save scramble.

Chuck a three bucket.

Wild.

This is crazy.

Four point lead now from four points.

The lead for the Bearcats.

Largest of the game.

And then a steal.

Nice job defensively.

Tanner Williams read that perfectly.

Trying to push ahead but it's knocked out of play by Anthony Brown.

This is the largest lead of the game for Melbourne.

And here's how we got to that three pointer.

Teague out to the corner.

Defender running out of the hand down.

Man down as they say the three pointer goes.

The four points is the largest lead of the game.

That's very telling of how this game has been.

There's no doubt back and forth nip and tuck.

Let's hope the end of the day four points is the largest that anybody has.

Oh boy.

Edwards bumped a little bit lost control Washington to push outlet ahead off the window.

Gentlemen Jacobs welcome to the scores column.

Just the fifth player to score this far for Ola.

I got four players in just one basket.

And then after that has been Tyler Belcher.

Foul underneath that was Edwards.

He draws those defenders they collapse in on and that hopefully gives other other players.

There's the feed the finish nice by Osceola.

Fast break action.

The bucket by Jacobson.

Yeah that was one where you don't need to reach in JB got great defensive position.

The offensive players surrounded and you reach in and give him a foul.

Yeah you're great Jake.

Nice feed on the baseline dish Edwards can't get the tough one to go.

And he's a little banged up.

Slow to get up off before we already saw Hammack hit the deck.

And it makes it a lot of pain over on the bench.

He's not even set by his teammates.

He's down with the trainer at the end of the bench.

That left wrist is very it looks like hurt.

And he looks really upset obviously because he can't get back in there right now.

And I'm sure he's dealing with the pain too or something.

It looked like it maybe slipped him a couple Tylenol or something to try to ease it.

But he's in a lot of he's a tough situation, and it'd be a big blow to not be able to get him back.

Colin Teague trying to go straight and it is set the other direction.

The block for Osceola.

Still plenty of time with the shot clock.

What a crossover Williams blocked again.

Back to back blocks for Osceola.

The defense flexing the muscle.

It's remarkable.

You think he got an easy layup.

Nope.

Just kidding Tyler Bell doing it on both ends for his.

He's been impressive to watch.

Jerian long a little shimmy into contact.

Floats it up.

Will go.

They get the offensive rebound.

It's Morris Washington.

Who else.

He's been an offensive rebound machine and he's swatted away.

And Teague just met him in mid air.

Said give me that.

Knocked it away.

Wow Edwards nice feed Williams.

He launches it up off the window.

And Melbourne's back up by four.

And honestly I would not have been surprised if he missed that layup I mean you want to rush everything because they're getting there so quickly defensively.

And then you feel like you got an open shot.

Forget about it.

They're on top of you.

It's so tough to turn off the internal clock right to speed up.

That's what Osceola does.

Good the mental side of that.

Defensively they push the tempo, increase that pressure and it causes all kinds of problems.

Seminoles trailing by four though right now Tyler Bell he's been the dude certainly today.

Spin move throws it up from the elbow and he's fouled.

He'll go to the charity stripe.

Well there have been many called.

And the thing is I'm going to give the officials a lot of credit.

I hope it continues on the second half.

But they're really letting them play at both ends and the way they play it makes for a great show for the fans that once when you got a call, obviously, and that was out of the free throw line, you don't want to slow the game down, right?

You want these teams to play at their pace.

They both like the fast paced part of this thing.

I would not want to play against either one of these teams.

It's just it's more fun when you're playing and everybody sort of sit back or calm down.

I can occasionally pass the ball without being disrupted, maybe get a shot off without you blocking it.

You know, that's no fun, JB.

I mean, goodness free throws no good for Bell, but he's having a whale of a game.

He missed the boat.

Oh boy.

There's a lid on the free throw line now Melbourne's trying to go quickly but Osceola got back defensively in transition.

Tanner Williams ball fake on the three.

Guarded by Morris Washington A swing pass from Collin Teague the junior role slowing things down a little bit now here in the front court under a minute to play until halftime.

They're up by four.

Trying to add to it.

Dangerous pass tipped and stolen.

Turnover number nine.

And they're trying to go in in long.

The two strong in transition.

And you know a dangerous pass is against Osceola.

Any of them a pass exactly.

Redundant.

Oh goodness.

And then they get another take away at least momentarily scramble for the loose ball I don't have the kickball.

Is this basketball?

Rugby.

It is a wild scrum out of here, folks.

Love it.

Let's go.

Frantic pace.

Take a look at this.

I mean, you think there's a state title on the line or something?

JB, this is nuts.

This.

Oh my goodness.

Kick it there on the floor.

They're going.

Everybody's flying.

I've never seen a final like this.

This is crazy.

Oh oh and then another steal.

Got a chance for the highlight bell with a dump pass to lead the team.

He's got a baker's dozen now Tyler Bell balling out.

Bell bird by two.

They can hold for one if they can hold.

Yeah that's the question.

That's been the question.

I mean even that could be tough.

Edwards crossover against long floats it up off the glass.

Got it.

Take a look.

Counting.

How about Tanner Williams with a great early nice play driving in center.

Now I got to give like a six and a half on the dunk by Tyler Bell.

But listen the two points were critical.

And then look at this drive.

And I think a good call by the official there.

Good body control by Williams going up in the lane again.

Did he score too quickly with 4.7 seconds.

They got burned at the end of the first quarter on that.

But they are up for and a free throw and make it five.

It'll be the largest lead of the game.

Won't get it, but the offensive rebound by Edwards couldn't get the money to go.

And that will likely be the final play of the half.

Wow 2622 just and it was back and forth.

Amazing first half.

Incredibly fun to play I mean to watch.

And incredibly intense on both ends.

But huge missed opportunity right there by Edwards a point blank layup.

But again you get sped up mentally sometimes you miss those bodies like that in a critical situation.

We got a dandy though here in Bangkok Arena.

Halftime from Hot Springs.

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 up 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 is halftime at Bank Ozark Arena.

But don't go anywhere because this is Arkansas PBS.

And here is where we tell Arkansas stories.

Plus, in a few minutes, Christina munoz later.

Yes, you did the Arkansas PBS student All-Stars.

But first, coach Charles Ripley is an Arkansas basketball legend, taking the Parkview Patriots the state crown five times from 1978 to 1995.

But Coach Rip, as he was known to his players, was admired much more for his contributions off the court.

When I think about Coach Ripley, this is a guy that every day he wakes up, he wants to make the world better with basketball in it.

Coach rip.

Welcome to the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame.

He's affectionately known as RIP or Coach Rick.

And for three decades, he's not the man as the head basketball coach at little Rock Parkview.

When I was in junior high at that time, your love for you went to high school, you had to take game, vocational, take a couple weeks, go to school, come back.

Counselor comes in and says, hey, Charles, we just couldn't find anything.

That you said was strength of interest or anything.

I said, yeah, because I'm going to be a coach and be a dang good one.

And then when he coaching questions on that test.

Will definitely be known at the end of the day of being the basketball coach.

I think my two right, my right hand and my left hand man.

Coach Flanagan.

Came over 89 real fast.

Me he knew he would lose an assistant.

Asked me to come over and work with him.

You know, the rest is history.

If you ever see Coach Ripley and his body style, he's a little short.

Little round, stubby guy.

There's no way he couldn't have been a point guard, but had such a passion about the game that he made that passion his own.

And it came out in this players and the records and the championships and all that speaks for itself.

We made a success, a party that when he championships, we want to be last team, said.

Get what you best game is basketball player.

You got to understand about those Patriot athletes.

Number one, I sport them.

Yeah.

They know what.

He never thought twice about what it would cost to get into a game.

Or what time is van full of aspiring young athletes might come rolling in in the wee hours of the morning.

He has no children yet.

He's been a dad of sorts to hundreds of youngsters across our state.

His thing was, if I create great relationships with my players, those players are going to go out and they're going to perform and they go out and perform.

We're going to win a lot of games and win a lot of games.

We're going to win championships.

I mean, they gave 110% for the year and, you couldn't you couldn't blame him because he, you just like a father figure, too.

I mean, some of the guys, he could afford it, man.

He he failed them at night after the game.

The stuff.

He would do anything for you.

He even let you have his car, man, to go out on a date, all that kind of stuff.

I try to talk about that kind of stuff that he.

He would listen to.

He just didn't care.

He was imparting lessons.

He was in part on anything he can give you to the day he died.

And the fact that he probably spent his last night and everything he got on his players, that was his passion, that was his family, and he just kept giving.

Charles Ripley has been a difference maker, touching the lives of thousand along the way.

A week before that, I been I didn't see real, you know, like everything was okay, everything was fine.

At some point he he he thank me more that day than he ever held.

You know, I should I should have cut it out right off.

But I did if you if you can say something to now, what would you say?

Yeah.

I love you, big guy.

And I kept that tradition going for you.

How fortunate can a man be to decide what's he, what he wants to do?

At 12 years old, and start preparing to do that and get to do that for the rest of his life.

Couldn't play.

What an athlete.

But I wanted to coach all my life, and, and and I fulfilled my dream.

Coach rip passed away in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of wins, but more importantly, a culture of caring.

We salute Coach Ripley and all the coaches that bring a human spirit to the game.

Now let's get over to Christina and she's going to introduce you to some very hardworking student athletes.

Christina.

Thank you.

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 B one, a girl that is Ella Holtzman with the Sacred Heart Knights.

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

We have Jonah Walker, a senior center for Marquette 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 a 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 Emery, Neil Emery 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 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 AA boys, we have Kellan Robinson with the Bryant Hornets.

Kellen plans to play basketball at UCLA.

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.

Yes, Christine, it is that time.

Let's get you back to back.

Okay.

Arena for the second half 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.

To Banco ZK arena four point lead for Melbourne over Osceola County looking for their first ever state title in school history.

They're up by four.

Let's look at the first half stats 2622.

And again not great field goal percentage shooting for Osceola but their defense keeping them in a right now.

Bearcats 43.5% from the field and 44.4% from three.

Osceola has made half of their threes and obviously led by Tyler Bell's performance.

They've outrebounded or been outrebounded by the Bearcats 2113.

And it isn't easy to come up with with the athleticism of Eola like a running back here to these first half highlights.

Tyler Bell was heating up from deep.

Got that one.

The devil wings.

Yeah he's been real good.

Birch no answered for Melbourne on the triple try opposite in and then that rejection defensively we've seen all kinds of physicality.

Loose ball plays the defense from Oklahoma showing up just a lot of physicality.

Kind of depicts how this game has gone.

Hard fought block there underneath.

And then this loose scrum.

This is one of the kickball bodies everywhere hitting the deck.

All kinds of action.

And then the steal that led to the dunk by Tyler Bell wasn't the most offensive, but I got it.

And there's a great score inside.

And one for Tanner Williams.

He's gonna have to come up big.

Listen Malcolm Hammock out of the game with an apparent wrist injury.

I don't anticipate we'll see him in the second half.

He is not out there to start the second half.

And he was in a lot of pain on the sideline.

It's a big blow.

He's a starter.

He's A65 senior.

He had 11 in the semifinal.

He's a 12 point scorer.

They certainly could use his size out here.

But they're gonna have to find a way without him.

That's right.

Find a way.

Next man up mentality.

Melbourne's got the basketball to begin the second half trying to add to their four point lead.

Oh backdoor pass.

Edwards thought about the three.

Kicks it out the corner.

Trey won't go and Edwards has got the offensive rebound.

And then he's jumped.

They got him tied up going the other way Melbourne got Edwards there and forced the jump.

Now this game may end up in the 30s or low 40s I mean just the defensive intensity makes everything hard.

Yeah.

And we didn't talk about turnovers 11 in the first half by Melbourne seven by Osceola.

Yeah you look at those 11 turnovers.

Only six points off of those ferocious.

They forced a lot when they haven't capitalized.

And then they turn it over themselves.

Jerian long steps out on the baseline.

That's turnover number eight.

Yeah that's essentially that's a win for Melbourne.

I mean you tie them in points off turnovers six apiece and you get turned over almost twice as many times.

So now Melbourne's Hayden Edwards and the leader, the vocal leader all year long coming down to the wire.

This is the complete opposite of how these two teams played earlier in the year.

That shot up wouldn't go an 8172 win for Osceola.

And right now this has been a defense of dominant performance.

Well, it's the difference between the NBA All-Star game and the NBA finals, right?

I mean, there's a lot more on the line here tonight.

That's right.

You can tell you can see from the effort, the physicality we've seen the referees have let him play on.

Here's the three ball from Reece Washington.

Bang for the right wing one point game.

Again we haven't had much of a separation from either team.

I mean the biggest lead Melbourne for Osceola two.

I mean we have been nip and tuck throughout this thing.

Boy has been.

You're right.

So calls made for a very very fun game.

And then just how fast paced it's been.

Defense on the prowl.

It's been a lot of fun.

Tanner Williams jump step.

Floats it up long.

Blocks it from behind in amongst the trees.

Couldn't get it done.

I wouldn't step foot in the paint.

I tell you what.

There's a turnover at midcourt and then a recovery.

Still a scrum.

It's still loose.

What Tyler Bell's got in that paw violation.

He finally corralled it, but that was quite the sequence.

I mean, we've had a few of those.

He's literally lying on the midcourt stripe for an over and back.

I came here the last time I saw that this was wild.

But again, there's no foul there.

And they're both chasing the ball.

I like the no call there, but the officials.

Hayden Edwards will have it on his sideline.

Melbourne's up by a point.

There's only been two ties in this game for all intents and purposes.

How close it's been a lot of lead changes back and forth.

We have going till break goes into the paint.

Edwards left hand off the back of the rim and drops it in.

And Hertz is an intense competitor.

The six three senior big left handed bucket inside there.

You get a spin away and you better move quick.

If you hold the ball around the rim, they're going to collapse on you defensively and you're likely to get your shot blocked.

Edwards has got nine points in the game.

Leads the way for Melbourne.

Tyler Bell still leads the way for Osceola.

He's got 13.

Jerry long from the top ten.

Strong with a three point try.

Melbourne's got the rebound and the chance to add to the three point lead.

Bringing it ahead.

That's Colin Teague and try to double him out high now.

Tanner Williams bounce pass into the corner Edwards launches the three.

It's short with a hand in his face.

Jerian long might call for that one a little bit now bounce bounce pass from bell ball fake long shot up.

No.

And he's going to the free throw line.

Oh I'm exhausted.

Let's just take turns right this quarter I'll get the next I mean look I've already I've already smashed it a Diet Mountain Dew and I'm going to need some more.

But I mean this intensity put it in my veins.

And this gets you through a workday.

Now, this might be one of the most intense games I've certainly seen in a state title game ever.

There's no question 100% agree there is no time to breathe for either team.

It is constant intensity and action.

It's remarkable that both these teams be able to keep this level of intensity.

We'll see if teams start to sort of taper off as the game wears on with some, you know, the adrenaline rush and all the action.

But good free throw there by long.

And we are back to a one point game with 515 left.

That's three.

Now for one.

Make it a two point game.

Excuse me 2026.

So now Melbourne a chance up by a bucket to add to that two point lead.

Ball fake then goes up blocked by Tyler Edwards.

Saves it for Melbourne.

He's been saving the day a lot for the Bearcats.

Trying to go to work against Bell.

Left hand blocked again Tyler Bell the rim protector five blocks now in the game for Osceola.

Bearcats have won long tries to bounce pass.

Well they tried to double him.

He's underneath.

He's the basket.

Can't get it to go second try.

No but he'll go to the free throw line.

Contact again.

Oh he's going to be.

And that's the first foul on Hayden Edwards A couple of free throws coming.

The Washington's got a chance.

Yeah right here to tie things up on the day.

He's got five points.

He's tipping his first two free throws of the game.

An area that Osceola tonight is just not really had a lot of success.

And he's been a little bit quiet for him.

Free throw no good 16 point average this year.

And they're game against Elkins to get here 5137 final.

He had 19 points.

He was the only double digit score for Osceola in that game M.J. Washington can't get the second one either.

Missed them both.

They are one of eight for the free throw line tonight.

Trying to get the steal.

But too much arm.

They doubled.

Edwards thought they got the steal and instead they got the arm.

Look at this.

Will give Wilkins the personal foul to second of the day actually his first excuse me five second.

Sideline inbound for the Bearcats.

His 4.5 minutes to play in the third quarter.

Both teams haven't scored more than 30.

And then driving inside the tank from Collin Teague.

And he's fouled on the way in.

Left to give two shots.

They're going again.

Wow.

They got that shot up.

The continuation at the line Collin Teague 38% from the free throw line this year JB not a lot of success.

You'd expect the guard to be a little better.

There and didn't get it.

That's how it looks.

But we've seen a lot of missed free throws tonight for both teams.

Local has been there more and they've not capitalized two for four now on the day for Melbourne.

Yeah Osceola is one of eight I mean miserable performance from the free throw line.

We'll do it either way.

They both missed there.

Edwards the last one to touch it out of play.

Osceola will have it with a chance to tie or take the lead two of five now from the free throw line for them.

So a combined three of 13 between the two teams not exactly set the world on fire.

Certainly not what either coach would like to see.

Tyler Bell bringing it ahead against Tanner Williams bumped.

Well, he got a blocking foul on Williams.

Bell had a little bit of an advantage there and he draws the perfect just first in the game.

Team third just nowhere near free throws yet how they feel about quarters versus halves.

You know I kind of like it a little bit.

Makes it a little easier to track I know everybody wants you know the college game to go that way.

At least the men's game to go to go to quarters.

There's a lot of people pushing for it.

I like the cause.

I think I do too, I did too, I'd be curious, see how it impacts the college game to happen.

And my thing is, when you're the lone holdout, maybe you're you're the issue.

Sure, force pass there, though.

Try to go too far.

And Jacobs couldn't handle it.

As someone who's been the issue, sometimes you have to look yourself in the mirror.

Go, maybe it's me.

You know, I think, that's where, that's where college basketball is, right now.

There's a higher turnover, boy.

That's like you forced Eric Jacobs the steal the bucket.

They got eight points on turnovers I mean you just had those go a layup right there.

What do you do.

What they can't have that.

Now we're all knotted up at 28.

Tied up once.

Now for the third time.

Once again we are commitment up Garland Teague handling it down high again the next stoppage of play will all you break Teague for the screen from Edwards.

No he tapers off.

Teague still got it.

Picks up the dribble out to Williams.

He'll drive inside throws it up.

Got it taken away.

Stripped and now outlet from Jeremiah Jacobs.

Nice play the feed into Washington.

The finish.

That was a brilliant Eurostep one two layup with the defender.

Get out of the way.

Really nice finish there Osceola back up by a bucket Edwards tip out into the corner.

Birds the trade jackpot timeout.

Coach Bailey Melbourne's up one 3130 at the media.

This one's a ballgame.

You're watching the Centennial Bank state basketball championships on Arkansas PBS sports.

This month on Arkansas PBS will work alongside so many talented artists learning different forms of coaching, getting hands on with multiple dyeing techniques.

Sarah tours the match, and while Roger shares some thoughts and techniques about landscape painting with his students.

This season, on Sarah's weeknight meals, we're living the dream from every corner of the Mediterranean.

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.

UAMs health, orthopedics and Sports medicine.

Sports.

Athletic programs and events across Arkansas.

Clinics are located throughout Central and Northwest Arkansas.

Learn more at UAMs health.com 14.

Lead changes three times between these teams 24 turnovers combined.

But if you look at the points off turnovers in these two teams, there's not a whole lot of added up to 10 to 8 advantage for Osceola.

The points off turnovers.

And really there's no major edge here Wilson rebounds 2519 for Melbourne.

So if you look at that Edwards 9.6 boards leading the way for his team.

But nobody in double figures for Melbourne.

And only Tyler Bell in double figures for Osceola.

Oh and there's a Bell Travel.

And again hey how many unforced errors because of the intensity I think again your nerves are frayed a bit.

You start making mistakes.

It happens.

And the only gift there for Ocala is that it was not a live ball turnover.

So you don't get the transition there.

Although they have been capitalizing on that.

Burks the deep three balls wow wow.

That was from 26ft above from Birch.

There's no logo, but it would have been if there had been.

And now Jerian long trailing by four trying to get some offense going underneath the baseline.

Wrapped around.

Stepped out first.

Got the basket to go, but it won't count.

And if you can believe it.

And here we're going to get another look at this one.

Look at that.

Look how far he is behind the line of Birch.

Bob for Brennan I love it.

And this is their chance to take their largest lead of the game for has been their largest lead so far.

They've just never been able to eclipse it.

Beyond that, Birch tried to had it blocked tries to throw it at what a save one handed for Williams.

Throws it off of Osceola is cash span.

What a heads up play for one to get up and make that playing catch.

It was Williams and then the wherewithal to throw it off a defender for 21.

Still on the shot clock here.

So plenty of time to set up some open.

Yeah Logan Bailey over there barking some instructions on the inbound.

He's close.

They tried to go inside and it's taken away by Bell but he steps out trying to jump inside.

You saw what they tried to do.

Teague was trying to go right underneath the basket with the feet.

Yeah he had a nice cut there by Edwards.

But good recognition there by Osceola.

His defense too.

So they just lob it down high trying to set up some offense this way.

Teague trying to go in the paint.

Got some space ball fake Calloway and he's fouled a chance to give Melbourne their largest lead of the game.

With 212 left here in the third quarter.

First foul called on Jerry long to eight points have been hard to come by.

Breathing room has been hard to come by has yeah the left hander going to Iowa here and there.

It is the biggest lead of the night for the Bearcats.

Five whole points I mean that's crazy.

Yeah we're a long way from anything being out of reach here that's for sure.

With the way these two teams play all it takes is the with the pace to just get going offensively a little bit.

We've yet to see either team do it Carroll way he's pure on both.

That's good really it's in the game like this.

With this magnitude bringing your head.

Tyreese James, Tippy and James as they like to call him Jerian long look for that ball screen.

Picks up his dribble.

He'll hand it off to Jeremiah Jacobs pulls up, hand his face in and out.

No, that was halfway down man.

Tough break for Osceola right there.

Melbourne can add to its largest lead crossover from Teague.

Stoppage of play.

The shot clock never started so they'll get that reset inbounds on the sideline.

It's not shot clock duty.

Yeah we believe not the first time we've had that right.

Nope.

But you know what I bet both teams are like thankfully I could you just give me a chance to catch my breath?

No kidding.

Good for us to chance to catch our breath.

Caraway.

Kick it over to Birch.

I thought he might try to shoot that one.

That was deep.

He's already knocked down one today.

Edwards to the lane.

Lost the ball and a block on Jerian long.

That's going to be free.

Throws for Edwards.

Wow.

High flying hard falling right there Hayden Edwards showing the durability.

The crossover goes up.

Make that good call.

He kind of leaned into it I think I think he was there JB but if he came he rose up.

If he stands still and locks in I think he gets it.

He gets the, charge call there.

But they do get the break on the free throw miss by Edwards.

He's a 50% free throw shooter to as good as he is on the floor.

Not a great free throw shooter.

Yeah.

Only combined five made free throws tonight for either side.

Yowza.

That's just not been, again, it's about locking in.

It's about fatigue.

And both these teams are just going all out with that second one.

Good.

And now a new largest lead seven for the Bearcats.

And that really brought sense of purpose.

That has been big three ball Washington answers on the other end.

Back to a four point game.

Yeah I think they got a little cross step defensively.

Teague and Edwards were conferring after that bucket went down discussing what happened defensively.

They're now calling Teague the drive.

Bounce pass coming into hot and heavy.

And Caraway can't handle it.

This is a critical point here Bearcats.

They want to give back that hard fought effort to get that lead.

But Osceola now with a shot at 120 to get it down to a 2 or 1 point game.

And we got a blocking foul out high.

The drive from Tyler Bell all the way outside the perimeter by the way 15 turnovers on the game now for Melbourne after that.

Errant pass 12 on the day for Osceola.

All the assistants over there barking at Tyree's James a tip in.

What a name ranked tip in James.

He's done that.

He's won a couple of games because of his tip in abilities.

That's where he got dubbed for the name tipping.

James 114 to go again I don't understand the shot clock deal.

We reset it and it's gonna give him a fresh 35.

I mean, it wasn't a change of possession.

What a miss.

Yeah, I don't think so.

108 play right there.

Bell gets it over to tip in James ball fake baseline.

Now he goes up gets the teardrop to fall.

It's a two point game.

Make it tyree's teardrop James.

Pressure applied to Edwards.

Able to get it across.

Picks up his dribble now.

Kicks to Burke.

Skip pass on the other end Edwards too strong.

The rebound pulled down for Osceola Cash.

Spann lost it.

They were able to maintain now.

And Tyler Bell will bring it across 4 to 5.

Now for the last five for Osceola.

They are on a nice run here.

They've got themselves back in this game down to eight.

Second differential.

But a chance to tie it up here Jeremiah Jacobs we'll see the call.

Wow.

He's fouled.

That's going to be in free throws.

It's the fifth team foul against Melbourne with 23 seconds in the third I thought he gave a little chicken wing right there.

I thought he might get the offensive foul.

Defender might have been moving but I thought he created the contact through that little chicken wing.

And I can see the replay on that one that was really and again you're talking about block block charge calls.

I mean that's always the toughest play for the official.

And again at a game like this forget about it I don't want anything to do that.

Jacobs at the free throw line.

They still can not buy a free throw right now.

Oh, look at this one again.

Watch this left arm come out as he dribbles down.

See how he kind of extended that left arm a little bit.

And see you see right there calling things like that's an offensive foul.

Could have gone either way.

He was definitely moving around a little bit there.

But I thought he created the contact with that left arm.

But Jacobs now with the chance to get him within one, can't do it one for ten on the day.

Boy that's silly.

He misses both.

So now a chance to hold for the final shot.

If they can get it across the timeline, they're having problems with it.

Edwards throws it.

It's still in play.

Excuse me, was Williams now?

Edwards lost it.

Bell tracks it down.

Goes straight up.

Pass to Jacobs.

We are tied at 37.

What just happened?

Still time last.

They love it and take it away.

Buzzer sounds and we head to the fourth and final period.

All tied at 37.

Watch this last crazy scramble here.

And again they're going to get the basket.

But then the other thing is about the clock in high school he keeps running after the basket.

It does not stop when the ball goes through.

And watch this.

This could have been a delay game on Tyler Bell.

He was standing over the ball just to protect.

But they couldn't get the ball to get it inbound.

It cost him a few seconds.

It gave him no chance to get the ball into the end of the, you know, in to play it up the floor to have a shot.

So anyway great play there by UCLA.

And let's play a quarter tied up at 37.

What do you say.

Let's do it.

Eight minutes left to decide the three eight state title.

This month in passport on the PBS app.

He realizes that you could find cancer before it technically exists.

That really is unprecedented.

Easter Island is giant moai statues inspire wonder.

They follow ancient routes called flyways.

But the world beneath their wings is changing.

These and other shows from Arkansas PBS are available with passport on the PBS app.

This broadcast is underwritten in part by Centennial Bank, supports communities across Arkansas, and is a proud supporter of the Arkansas Activities Association and Arkansas PBS sports, providing financial services since 1999.

Member FDIC.

More at my 100 Bank.

Com.

Welcome back to Bangkok Arena, J.P. Brazil, alongside Justin and Carrie.

Let's take a look at our recap up to this point.

Yeah.

Very physical play throughout.

It's been an intensely played game.

You see the the crashing into each other.

I mean it's been a wild scramble throughout this game.

Everybody fighting for every opportunity.

Some threes by Birch though.

He has been phenomenal.

And a birch bomb we got earlier to Osceola though scrambling back.

And they had a win in the quarter 1511.

Going right back to work.

And a miss inside there by the Bearcats would have put them back on top.

But Osceola getting it done winning it by four in the third quarter to lock this thing up at 37 after three.

This one has fit the bill all square at 37 apiece.

Earlier this year, Osceola won in a game that didn't mean as much 9182, naturally, but a high scoring game.

This one's been completely the opposite.

Tyler Bell trying to give Osceola the lead to the rack.

It's a charge taken by Carl Caraway.

That's the first one of the night.

And a few guys trying to set up for one.

Let's take another look at this one.

This.

And honestly I think that one's more of a blocked and a couple of the other ones tonight.

Kidding again.

It's a tough call for the officials, especially in a game like this.

And the intensity and the speed these guys are moving at.

Edwards gets it ahead trying to find Caraway.

Lost the handles.

He tried to pass it past spans.

Got the steal.

And his turnover number 17.

Open the ball fake Tyrese Tippin James gives the Seminoles the lead.

The pressure has been causing all kinds of problems for Melbourne.

That is their first lead in a long while.

Sure it now Caraway got an opening with the left hand.

Too strong.

Edwards the effort and he was the last one to touch it.

I got to see a replay on that one too.

There was a lot of contact there.

It looked like he's being pulled down from behind.

But my goodness.

Osceola defense forcing the miss on what looks like a wide open layup.

But again you get Caraway thinking about it.

And we got a shot clock operation again to go at the reset.

Figure out how much time comes off here.

Inbounds on the sideline boy.

Regardless he's central for this has been a fun high falutin defensive game.

Not offense I've looked defense.

They've been really putting it on display well.

And the largest lead seven by Osceola as they throw it into the backcourt.

Bogut tipped.

Yeah and what a comeback.

Our seven by Melbourne.

Excuse me.

What a comeback by Osceola to get back in front.

Incredible here with six and a half to go.

There's still so much basketball basketball on hand tonight.

Yeah every second feels like five.

Sure does now a drive from Walsh and MJ floats it up from just inside the free throw line.

Four points now the largest for Osceola has caught fire here the last few minutes of the game.

They beat the transition and they trap Williams in the corner.

Throws it.

It's going to be last touched by the Seminole spin I think it caught his foot.

He didn't like the call.

The Seminoles holding the Bearcats the 37% shooting tonight.

They're knocking down 45% of their shots.

And they have really trended up of late.

Both teams actually surprisingly shooting well from outside Osceola.

Six of 11 six of 13 for the Bearcats.

Oh.

Dangerous inbounds.

It's going to be taken away by cash.

Spann.

He's made some plays here late.

Sure has.

Now Washington toes up the three money changer wild from MJ Washington.

He gets the steal from cash Spann and then Washington in transition.

The trade.

But we talked about the shooting has been really good for Osceola seven of 12 now from 358% in a game that has featured 32 turnovers.

Free throw shooting has been atrocious.

Six of 19 for the two teams combined.

And yet they can't hardly miss from three.

JP it's a wild one.

This is certainly been an interesting stat line when you look at this the game it it's just been kind of an interesting flow something you don't see very often.

Well we talked about the points off turnovers two and how even though Osceola was winning the turnover game, they weren't really winning of the points off turnovers.

We're now they've opened up an eight point gap in points off turnovers and you got a game that's decided by seven right now with six minutes to go.

So again, Melbourne's really dug themselves a hole this time.

The way they play hard to come back on Melbourne had a chance to build a bigger lead earlier.

Couldn't do it now but give the Seminoles credit.

What a response of Melbourne had done a good job up to this point of not letting those turnovers come back to bite them.

That's not been the case over the last 3 or 4 sequences.

Osceola the turnovers for.

So they've made them pay.

Yeah they're taking chunks out of them now.

Up by seven.

The largest lead of the game.

And again every game about every getting it across the timeline is an adventure.

Oh it sure is.

For Coach Bazemore.

This will be his first ever state title.

Would be title number seven for the Seminoles.

Would be the first for Melbourne.

Caraway three goes to strong, but a nice offensive rebound from Williams.

Back to Caraway.

Left hand gets the teardrop to fall.

They needed that in a worse way J.B good job.

They're taking advantage on their second chance to get back within five seven.

Now for Caraway just to kind of see one fall slow things down.

It's been a long run for Osceola up to that point.

Now through the lane.

Bell acrobatic won't get it to go, but he is headed to the charity stripe.

I don't know if that's good or bad for them right now.

The way things have gone, I mean is remarkable to see a team go one for ten from the free throw line in the state championship or any game for that matter, any game.

But certainly the championship game.

This is certainly maybe something for Osceola.

They've gone on a run.

Well, that help.

Maybe their woes at the charity stripe up by doesn't.

They just made seven of ten, which isn't spectacular.

Free throws up still can't get one to fall.

Wow this is amazing.

One of 11 incredible shot.

You're right.

Quite well I mean literally the difference in the game.

It's a five point lead but it certainly could be double digit year more for Osceola if they can make it.

They are one of 11 from the free throw line.

Tyler Bell who jumped out with quick points 13 points.

He still hasn't scored in a while until then.

Second made free throw of the game for Oakland.

They're two for 12 and Melbourne trying to get it across the timeline.

Trailing by six.

Jump step Williams left hand off the window.

Count it.

Check his height.

Big bucket inside there and you've got to attack Osceola if you go up to him is if you think twice yeah you're going to pay.

And that time he got just enough of a head fake.

Got the defender in the air.

Goes up, finishes the shot, goes intent to the basket and draws the foul.

Let's see if they can knock down a free throw here to make this a three point game.

He can't.

Well it has been tough sledding at the free throw line for both teams.

Four point lead though.

Now back for Osceola.

You know both of these coaches.

They were nervous coming in.

This was coming down to the wire.

Still 505 to play in the basketball game.

Look at that Osceola fan base I mean you got half him over there on their feet.

They are into it already standing with 458 to go.

Yeah.

Coach Bazemore is going to call a timeout.

He wants to talk it over here 16 seconds on the shot clock for 58 to go in the basketball game.

We saw the intensity pick up for Osceola early in the second quarter.

It's started to pay dividends here early in the fourth quarter.

Melbourne's weathered it a little bit.

But they've just got to figure out a way to create some offense.

We open up with a really good game earlier today.

I want to run through these real quick.

Izard County knocking off Barton by six.

That was a really well-played game Quinn Johnson the MVP a lot of defense in the second game.

Two boys.

He's points the county back to back over Tucker about 4330.

Tyrus real the MVP.

And then Lamar got a big night from Corey Sanders.

And they win it over.

Previously undefeated Dover 6552.

This one has been probably the best game of the day though.

In a day that's been filled with some good performances.

It has been money, no question about that.

Here are high defense from both teams, and even the offense at times have shown some good signs.

Some three ball shooting, right.

You're getting three shots three point shots and then good defense.

What more could you ask for?

I mean, how often do you see a team shoot like 10% from the free throw line.

And it's almost 60% from three.

Yeah.

Combined.

Yeah, 50% combined.

Both teams Tyler Bell's got it out high for Okla 4541.

Both teams largest lead has been seven.

They've really not been able to go above that Washington off balance three wouldn't go.

Bell just wrestled for the rebound.

Got it to long.

His second chance goes up.

That one's good.

And he's headed to the free throw line.

Wow a six point lead for Osceola.

And another free throw attempt.

Well that was kind of the name of the game is limiting Osceola second chances for Melbourne that was one of the keys.

Limit the second chances.

Handle the defensive pressure here of late.

It's come back to bite him.

That free throws good for Jerian long in the lead.

Back out to seven.

Three of 13 now from the free throw line.

We got a foul there right before the inbound looks okay.

Sorry.

It's on James.

Just the third foul on Osceola.

So to get to the bonus two on Melbourne so far here in the fourth quarter Edwards will find Tanner Williams four and a half remaining seven point lead.

It's not that large really for either side.

So still within striking distance.

Melbourne is trying to make sure it doesn't go beyond seven.

Dangerous pass tipped away.

Caraway tries to tip and save but it's going to be a back court violation.

I don't think he needed a dive there.

You just need to reach down and get it.

But again, you're playing in an intense environment.

You're stressed out and mistakes made right there, I think.

I think he could have saved without diving, but it was tipped.

But then he.

Yeah.

Coach.

Coach is upset.

Coach Bailey is upset.

Here we go.

Inbounds it stolen Edwards got an outlet ahead to Birch A chance for two.

Throws it up.

Gets it to go.

That was what mattered.

He looked like he didn't realize where he was.

And then he flips one up over his head and gets it.

What a turn of events a huge sequence.

It flips back Melbourne cuts the deficit to five.

Osceola in hand off.

Both teams have an opportunity to extend that lead beyond seven.

They're just not able to do it.

Jerry Long trying to go to work against Edwards.

Spin move ball fake trying to create some space.

It's just not there.

Edwards a brick wall hands off to Washington.

The jumper won't go.

And then over the back on Tyrese James.

Hey how good was the defense.

Those are our two guys to watch this game.

Jerry Long and Edwards.

That was a great one on one battle Edwards wanted defensively.

And then they get the over the back.

And now down five to get the ball back.

Second foul here on James.

And that's going to be our final media 354 to go.

Oakland up by five.

This broadcast is underwritten in part by Summer Woods Sports Complex in Bryant features four courts across two gyms located off Interstate 30, offering space for tournaments, practices and training.

Proud to support the Arkansas Activities Association and Arkansas PBS.

More at Summer woods Sports.com this month on Arkansas PBS.

Whoever the editor of the magazine was mistakenly changed his name from War to Wall, and he decided to keep Warhol from bondage to battle.

What do you make of him?

It changes the game for my family.

You.

Only on Arkansas PBS.

Memories being made tonight.

Even for those who aren't going to remember them, DVD copies of the state championship games are available from Eminem Productions.

More information at Eminem Productions dot net.

We're glad you're with us JB Brazil, Justin Acre we have got a good one.

This one has been exciting to say the least.

Yeah, everybody needs a nap after this one.

Come back tomorrow stronger than ever.

Hey, you're going to get some good rest on that bus trip back.

Both these teams will.

There's going to be some sleepy dudes on the way home.

They have laid it all out there in the game.

That matters most again.

Melbourne's never won a state title.

Osceola has won six.

And there's a steal on the inside.

They feed to Bell.

Up and under.

No good.

That was Washington.

Excuse me.

He couldn't get it to go.

Melbourne catches a break down by five.

Quick touch pass.

Caraway ball fake throws it up.

He's fouled hard and he's got a chance to cut it back to a one possession game at the free throw line.

I almost feel like turning the ball over might be your best offense because it gets them collapsing back here.

And then if you can get the ball back, then you take off the other way.

It's just it's just bizarre.

I mean, this is a straight if you watch this, this is your first ever exposure as the free throws good to basketball.

You would you would be ruined for life.

Absolutely.

I mean, you're not going to watch any other game like this.

You would think a turnover is bad or it's a good thing, right?

Oh, we need to turn them over.

Yeah.

Caraway got them both.

That was a big JB.

It's a one possession game.

Those are very big.

Airways had a couple free throw stances where he's knocked them both down.

Well that's the game right now right I mean you're talking about a team that's gone three of 13 and one has gone.

Not great but 7 to 12 now.

And Caraway for A4I said his veins at the free throw line three point advantage to Osceola gives it out.

High tip in James senior looking to go to work.

Wants that ball screen and he kicks it around.

Swings it over to the corner Tyler Bell wants a three.

Trying to line it up.

Won't go rebound tracked down for Jerry long now Washington lined it up.

That three will go.

Tipped around pulled down by Birch a chance to cut it to one or tie the game on this trip.

All alone Carroll high ball fake.

Probably should have went up with it.

Doesn't matter.

Gets it to go home.

Run away on a run.

Gets right.

He's been doing it one point game.

Carraway averages just 3.3 points a game.

And there's a foul by Edwards out here on the sideline.

But averages 3.3.

He's got 11 big points.

And you're right clutch at the free throw line.

And I thought the same thing.

Don't don't pump fake.

Go up and get your bucket.

But he did a good job.

And that time scored an inside.

That's the third foul on Edwards.

And that ball batted back into the officials mug right there.

But he caught it because I would have been eating it.

Otherwise we would have been in trouble.

Yeah Caraway though you're right a great the junior at inbounds trouble.

Oh boy Williams has got the steal.

Bounce pass.

Callaway the lead and he got it.

Wow Carroll is on A60 run.

What a state title game for Kale Caraway.

Melbourne's up by one.

It's been a game of small runs.

And now the Bearcats their faithful getting to their feet.

The Osceola faithful.

They've already been on their feet.

They try to feed inside Washington through contact.

He's fouled.

Couldn't get the shot to go, but a chance to tie it or take the lead here.

Was that a pass or a shot?

What are they going to do I'm going to say nope.

Pass.

So they're going to let him inbound for the baseline 14 fouls now on Melbourne Osceola five.

So both teams are shooting the rest of the way with 213 left.

And if it comes down to a free throw contest your guess is as good as mine.

Unless it's Caraway.

The line that I like Melbourne's chances.

There's the lead back Osceola.

They get it to their money maker Tyler Bell.

He's got 17.

Give him 19 with that bucket.

They get it across the timeline.

Melbourne now down by one.

Caraway under two minutes to play.

They'll feed it out high.

Now to Colin Teague.

Edwards spin move.

Lost the basketball scramble.

Tip right back to him.

He's able to escape the jump.

And then the triple attempt slips through the hands of Burch I think he just lost it.

Yeah I think he's just looking at his hands like you failed me.

Let's look at the replay.

He just went up and it just slipped right out of his hand now.

Yeah.

Let's get him some LeBron shock over there.

Oh my gosh.

And what a critical moment for that to happen.

One for two.

That three would have been huge.

But how about Osceola.

The relentlessness to get back in the lead here by one.

How about Coach Bailey over there.

Wiping the wiping the ball off with the towel.

Oh man what a ball game Osceola right back.

And after Melbourne had taken control behind Kyle Calloway's performance we have had 17 lead changes.

Coach Bazemore wants to talk things over Kyle Leah.

And this one could finish in a multitude of ways.

The way this game is going.

This is setting up for a very nice finish.

We deserve overtime I think you're right calling it now right.

Let's go.

Oh you sure you want to stay up that long?

Oh, buddy.

This is just nuts.

I don't care, I got nowhere else to be.

I mean, this is just wild.

It's been so much fun.

And listen, every time it looks like one team's going to go down, they just rise back up.

I mean, and then you get the seven point lead, you know?

And then here comes Melbourne behind Caraway.

And then he almost got the answer back.

I mean just remarkable from really the start to this point.

It has been back and forth.

The story tells it all.

17 lead changes leading the way though for Melbourne it's Birch.

He's got 14.

But I think Caraway with 13 even though he's got less points he's been monumental down the stretch.

Yeah absolutely.

Caraway has been phenomenal again playing him maybe a little bit different role.

They're down a guy again.

If he missed it earlier Malcolm Hammett got hurt.

Yeah he was a big piece of their semifinal victory.

Went out with a wrist injury.

Never came back.

And that was pretty early in the game.

I will also say that Birch is four of nine from three.

He was line and one up over there from the corner when he lost the handle out of bounds.

Going to change the sort of dynamic of the game.

But give Osceola credit again, maybe rested a little bit.

You got a defender running at you.

And then for the Seminoles 19 points for Tyler Bell.

He leads the way M.J. Washington.

He's been big from three as well.

It's been Bell and Washington Jerian long.

Only three points tonight.

He's been held in.

Check the inbounds stuff to MJ Washington a minute and a half to play.

I've never seen a game of there's so many cross court passes because that was your only option right.

That's how well it's been guarded.

Oh.

Loose ball.

No foul call.

They let him play.

Coach gets Bell back up on his feet.

Washington gets it to go rattled around and finally falls.

That was a tough angle MJ Washington a big shot.

The lead's three.

Now for Osceola.

That one's nearly stolen.

Bell.

Try to flash and tip it away from Burch.

It'll be out of bounds off of to the Seminoles 107 left.

Three point game.

This possession is also crucial for Melbourne.

There's no doubt.

Carroll they don't have to have a three.

But you need a bucket here.

That's Detroit.

Just find a way to get a good offensive look.

They go in the paint to Edwards with the left hand.

He's bumped.

Couldn't get it to go.

But he'll have a chance to cut into the lead a little bit here at the free throw line with under a minute to play again.

Not a good free throw shooter 50% on the season.

See if he can make him pay here in a critical moment.

Seven of 12 tonight for Melbourne.

Three of 13 for Osceola and two huge ones coming up for Edwards with his team down three at 59.7 seconds left.

You look across the way.

There's not many people sitting Edwards.

They get the first well love to get one here.

If you're him, get it down to two right.

And then if he can get a stop, you don't have to have a three to tie the game.

This free throw is huge at this juncture in the game.

Edwards one for three from the charity stripe gets it two for four.

That one's big 5250 Osceola is up by a bucket.

Seminoles trying to add to the lead.

They need a good offensive possession.

Jacobs nearly lost it.

Pressure applied.

Melbourne coach bass more thing.

He wants to talk things over.

He's not very happy with Tyler Bell.

Well, they're talking it over.

And what do we know.

Teams that likes to press and pressure don't like to be pressured.

And the Bearcats dropped in on him right there.

And they looked very uncomfortable.

But I think a heads up play there by Coach Bazemore.

Again you still got a couple of timeouts left.

No brainer to call timeout talk things over.

Call me guys down in the two point game with 54 seconds and a state title on the line.

If you're Osceola here what are you drawing up?

Well first of all, can you get it across the timeline?

Let's start there.

And then, you know, I think Washington's been hot.

Bell has been solid throughout.

I think you got to get to one of those guys.

Let's get to work.

Launch, man.

Good too though.

But I think really, Washington's been the hot hand.

Do you think?

I think so it certainly down the stretch you know now for Melbourne though they need to stop it.

Certainly defense is the emphasis.

What's what's the plan be on there.

Yeah I think the biggest thing is don't foul.

If they do get the ball inside.

And also if they miss secure that offensive rebound.

You know they're going to come after it for the offensive stick back.

You've got to secure if you can force a miss which has not been a huge issue tonight.

But getting the rebound hasn't been easy.

It's been an adventure.

Like we said 52 to 50.

Osceola up by a bucket after the made free throw from Hayden Edwards.

He didn't get both, but it was paramount that he got at least one.

So it'll be a sideline inbound now instead of an line inbound.

But it'll be in front of the Bearcats bench.

And to see how cam hammock over there in a sling on his left arm.

And you hate to see that I mean, again to state title game just fell awkwardly on that arm and just a bad deal.

But again his teammates trying to pick him up here.

Here we go to the inbounds to Tyler Bell.

And they're going to back off immediately.

So that's that's one question answered Bell.

Look at the handoff to Washington here.

Just play great Man-To-Man defense no reach in.

Or maybe you want to maybe a foul and put him on the line.

That's the easy part of it.

Yeah Tyler Bell's got it.

Shot clock down to 12.

He's going to try to drive in.

Tries to pass underneath to the paint.

It's long.

Got it to go.

The bunny gives Osceola a four point lead.

What a brilliant play there by Bell.

Got to go Edwards three ball in transition won't go.

Tipped around.

They're going to get a foul.

Long went up to get the board.

He's hacked in ahead of the charity stripe on the other end.

What a brilliant play by Bell I thought he'd hang in the air trying to shoot it.

Edwards challenged him and he finds his teammate Jerian Long right under the basket for the stick in.

And that's a four point game and a huge free throw coming up here.

It's already a two possession game with 19.7 left, but free throws down the stretch critical.

And again if you're Melbourne you know you're hacking the rest.

Well I would not foul long though.

He's been solid Jerian long player to watch.

He's been held in check tonight but might have had the biggest bucket of the game right there on the pass from Tyler Bell.

He's got six points on the game now.

Can't get that one now.

Melbourne's gonna have to move quickly.

Edwards trailing by five.

Need a bucket.

Kicks it over.

Burks the three point sharpshooter falls down.

He travels OCO look and feel it.

Well it's been that kind of game and it's hard I mean just keep your feet sometimes.

This has been just tough.

But he fumbled it and then he never really had a good handle on it.

He tried to dribble over to his left there.

And great job collapsing by Washington to help force the turnover.

We're going to go back to the free throw line with 11 seconds left.

And Osceola can taste it.

Here's the reality.

Still a chance for Melbourne.

You make both free throws though.

You likely put this one to bed.

Ozil has been here.

Punch titles in 7779 0102 2022.

This is their first appearance since 22.

They've only lost one time in the finals and that was in zero four.

I mean, this team had incredible success, but another missed free throw by Bell.

And yet with 11 seconds left, it's going to take a virtual miracle for Melbourne with 11 seconds left down five or maybe six.

It's going to be a two possession game regardless.

Jerian long trying to join his father as a state champion.

That one's good six point lead.

Melbourne still technically got a chance.

Got to go quick.

Teague's ahead.

Deep three launched.

Buries it.

Got it with 4.6 to go.

Melbourne still alive.

How now you got a foul.

Immediately.

Trap immediately on the inbound foul.

If you don't get the trap in the steal.

And then.

And that was a brilliant play.

You don't see guys do that enough.

That was Teague for a deep three.

You've got to get a shot up.

It may be a low percentage shot but you've got to get one up so fast just to give yourself any kind of chance and a little bit of clock time to make it even reasonable where he can get another shot up.

If you get everything else you need, which is either a miss free throw or a turnover on the inbound.

That was a genius play by Teague.

It really was.

Now with 4.6 to go Melbourne you got to get a try to get a steal quick right.

That's the call.

If you don't you can't let more than a second go off.

Got a foul.

And then for all intents and purposes Osceola a free throw is it.

That's right.

Unless you're John Calipari that you missed it intentionally.

And just hope they don't chuck it up from half court.

I don't know what that was about against South Carolina below worked out for the hogs at Osceola.

Listen, if you're going to pick a team right now, I'd rather be Osceola than I would.

Melbourne.

Now that's back.

And look at the clock here for five seconds up.

So it helps Melbourne a little bit.

But yeah.

Immediate trap if you don't get the steal out quick it's I mean it's got to be hey I think I can get the steal if not foul immediately.

Yeah.

And also not fill Jerian young.

Although he did this one of two.

He seems the most solid of the guys that have been up there.

I mean, I'm almost going after Tyler Bell.

As great as he has been tonight, that has not been his strong suit.

That's right.

I mean, who are the worst free throw shooter tonight?

The best three at A72 and a six for long.

Jacobs over to Washington's over two.

So Washington's been phenomenal.

But maybe from a free throw standpoint he's the guy now he's and it's going to be Bell.

It's going to inbounded.

So he's not going to be the guy you're going to foul.

So they said they handle it here.

Going to try to inbounds right here trying to find somebody.

Thought about the lead.

Cork bounce pass into Washington.

They're going to foul on.

He's not made a free throw tonight.

This could be big.

He's over two.

He's the guy you want to get that worked out perfectly I think if you're Melbourne you want to have a chance.

But again all he's got to do to secure a state championship is make a free throw out of two.

And you win the game.

You make the free throw, then you get out of the way.

Defensively, you can't have a four point play.

And if he misses both maybe we do get the overtime free.

So richly deserve that.

That would be something 4.3 seconds to we've got a timeout for Coach Bailey I like that there's not a chance at heck, he's not going to make him think about these free throws.

I sent the kicker much.

Obviously he still got one more.

But you want to talk about what you're going to do to first of all, if he misses both you got to secure the rebound.

Well that's right.

And then you got to figure out, hey get get it to somebody.

There's not a lot of time to set up an offense.

It's fine to shoot it.

And then the other thing I would say is if you're if you're Coach Bazemore do you foul take the three point possibility out of the mix I would if you got it under three seconds I'm Fowler absolutely taking my chances.

Maybe as long as you're not in the act of shooting and you make sure of that.

You're coming out.

Maybe if they go up the rebound they come down.

How can I shoot some wild stuff?

There was a state tournament game this year where there was a team that was down three and they got fouled on the three, made the free throw Gillette maybe or was against Riverside Rivercrest maybe.

Could be.

Yeah.

Four point play to win it to win it.

And then my man Tyrese Haliburton did the same thing for the Pacers the other night.

Let's go cyclones some estate maybe a basketball game.

This is so fun.

You just never know the madness of March But let's give credit to Teague because at three for him to pull up there was just give some hope.

Huge.

It did.

So they still got a chance.

I just I love what Osceola has done all night.

I love the response from both teams.

Bearcats have just fought through and handled things without their starter hammock in there all night.

I mean, it's been remarkable.

But again, it all comes down to this.

M.J. Washington had a great night.

He's 14 points.

He makes either free throw.

This game is virtually over.

There's no way you're going to get two possessions.

Here we go.

Washington.

Biggest free throw of his life.

He got Osceola is going to win it.

The Seminoles looking for their seventh state title in school history.

How clutch was that?

This one's just for good measure.

Couldn't get that one to go, but they get the offensive board.

Bell throws it around.

And Osceola in a thriller have won the three AA state title.

Wow.

That was incredible.

40 5753 your final.

Coming up we're going to talk to our Zarqa College MVP.

We're going to talk to our winning head coach Bryant Bazemore.

What a title.

They earned it tonight.

Nothing easy.

5753.

We'll give you the trophy presentation when we come back as well.

You're watching the Centennial Bank state basketball championships on Arkansas PBS sports.

This broadcast is underwritten in part by Everett Buick.

GMC provides vehicles to Arkansas families and supports local organizations.

Community involvement has been part of our story for generations.

Proud to support the Arkansas Activities Association and Arkansas PBS sports.

More at Everett, Nme.com.

Join the ranks of corporate sponsors and business partners at Arkansas PBS.

Your support will shine a light on your business with recognition on air and at major community events like Family Day.

Plus, our viewers love the businesses that underwrite their favorite programs.

Showcase your company while making a meaningful impact on lifelong learning.

Partner with Arkansas PBS to build a brighter future for our state.

When the students of the Rock walked along through the mom, you cried with them.

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 cotton farm 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 statues 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 there.

Just a little kid from wherever.

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

Right here on Arkansas PBS.

We'll find out what you are.

Heirlooms, antiques and unique collectibles are.

Oh, you're not the only artist, sweetheart, for the filming of Arkansas Treasures, your contribution of your.

The hunt is on.

Where is it?

Where is.

What are you wearing?

That fedora.

Arkansas Treasures is back for the second season.

Not going to miss it this time.

Well, I think it's back that.

Oh.

What's in your attic?

Find out what your antiques and unique collectibles are worth.

Join us for the filming of Arkansas Treasures.

Guarantee your spot by calling now or visiting our website.

Your treasure may be worth more than you know, and you.

This is your information.

What a game in Bangkok Arena in Tokyo.

Of the three AA state champions, Jamie Brazil alongside Justin Acree.

This game was one of the best we've seen in a title game in a long, long while.

That's probably the most intense league game I've ever seen.

Let's go back to the numbers again.

Free throws an issue for Osceola, but they got their buckets when they needed him and MJ Washington with a clutch free throw or two down the stretch, and they were able to win it by four.

And once they made it a two possession game, it was over.

They were outrebounded 3327, but they end up shooting 46.7% from three.

Pretty good shooting night from outside for the Bearcats as well.

And really pretty even numbers across the board.

Turnovers.

The bigger issue it points off a seven point advantage for Osceola.

So go talk to a winning coach.

Head coach Bryant Bazemore facing this coach.

Congratulations on a big win.

You got to be excited.

Your first state title first one.

How are you feeling man I'm overjoyed.

You know I give our players throw to go inside with him.

What a moment man.

What a feeling.

Coach we were exhausted watching the game.

What was it like to be coaching in that?

That was the most intensely played title game I've ever seen.

I have talked to Coach Beilein, his staff over there.

What a bunch.

We've seen him 3 or 4 times.

You won the last two years and they always play to the end, man.

I got no respect for him in the coaching atmosphere.

Like this title game was so much on line.

His training got some great.

We are too I can't imagine.

You know, it was a weird game because you guys gave yourself so many opportunities.

You shot it well from outside.

You made some opportunities before the free throw line was a struggle all night until the end.

And oddly enough, you seal it away.

There.

Guys, that's so good.

Richard, I tell you, we work our butts off and play so hard and get to the free throw line, Mr. Bunnies.

But as you stated the last minute or two in the game, they made it when it counted most and that was the difference.

That was the difference in the ball game, is that making free throws down the stretch, no doubt.

And you guys answered it every time, coach.

I mean each team never got away from the other one.

I mean, you get five, six, seven points.

But when they started pulling away Caraway got a little run there for them.

Yeah.

You guys had a great response.

Yeah we knew we had to play.

Took it to the final buzzer.

Number 322 I hate five guys hurt.

I hope he's okay.

Yeah.

My heart goes out to him and his family, but what a bunch over there, man.

I'm just so proud of my kids and persevered.

They just refused to lose.

We worked so hard to get here.

And, you know, people said we couldn't do it under my leadership, and here we are.

So I'm thankful.

Shirt says it all.

It's your time.

Congratulations goes on.

Right.

Go enjoy it.

All right.

Thank you.

It's our winning coach Brant Bazemore.

And man what a performance by his Seminoles a four point game.

And yeah I mean we never had anybody separated I think by more than seven.

Maybe the whole seven was the largest.

The pace you can see, the physicality.

That was the name of the game throughout just it really was a riveting game back and forth.

It kept going.

It was a three ball for Mercer, kept things alive, and Caraway nearly gave Millburn a huge lift there late in the game.

It just wasn't enough.

But it was the play of MJ Washington that got things done in the free throws at the end to seal the deal.

What a job from Washington and company.

And Osceola wins their seventh state title in school history.

They're now seven of eight on trip to the state title.

We're here with our MVP Osaka College MVP as a matter of fact MJ Washington MJ, I got to ask you the time that was called you were found three thrilling wins it.

What's going through your head?

I was confident I was going to get one.

At least I was one for two at the line.

So once I got there, one I heard the fans go crazy.

We came out with the win.

When you guys got down, how did you guys respond?

I mean, you guys just play.

I mean, you guys get after there is no let down with your team.

It's incredible.

Yes, sir.

We run it all all through the game.

We run it.

So when we got down we did together.

Oh you're so we knew it was going to be nothing to come back.

We fight together.

They would.

They was up ten on us when we played them our first time this year.

We're like 43 seconds left.

We came back and won the game and I knew then we were special.

Defensively, it was such an intensely play game.

I mean, really, neither team could operate.

But we saw scrums out here like a rugby game.

You've been involved in a game like that.

That was that hotly contested and intense.

The last time we played them, it was like that.

It was like the last time we played a I mean, every time you guys go inside, it was, I mean, hard to finish at the basket.

You don't know where guys are coming from.

Him in the arms, flailing around.

It's like everybody was playing with eight dudes.

Yeah.

What's it like?

I mean, it's crazy being in a game like that, right?

It was rough.

I was impressed with your three point shooting down the stretch, making big, big shots.

Was that a confidence thing for you where you want to defeat it to you?

Yes, sir.

Once I see my first one go in, it's going to be a long night.

That's what I always say.

Well, listen.

Congratulations.

Go celebrate with your team.

Yes, sir.

Thank you.

Awesome.

Sir.

Osaka College MVP, MJ Washington.

And, what a performance by Osceola.

And look, I love it when Coach Bazemore is giving love to the other team because both teams were spectacular.

That was just really an incredibly well played game by both teams.

You hated to see anybody lose that right.

It was that kind of a game.

It was Osceola though, that down the stretch made the shots that mattered most of free throws that mattered most when they were tough to come by and for all intents and purposes, MJ Washington well, knock things down.

I think we're all tuckered out.

That was something.

Let's take a before we get out of here, I want to tell you about our friends at image one.

And again, championship gear is, going to be available here looking for.

Championship apparel and memorabilia for this season are available at Arkansas high school sports.com.

And so all you Osceola fans get on click the link.

And go ahead and get that apparel.

Here's what we got ahead.

Looking forward to tomorrow.

Good one D Queen and Pulaski Academy.

The Friday noon game to follow Moralton Mills.

That should be awesome.

And then the nightcap.

Green County Tech Farmington in the girls match at 6 p.m. in the five a boys Benton and Maumelle.

Joe, segue into our Saturday matchup.

Those will be fun as well.

But for my partner Justin Acree, the rest of our wonderful production crew here.

I'm JP Brazil saying so long from Bangkok Arena.

Day one has concluded and Osceola is your three AA state champs.

You've been watching the Centennial Bank state basketball championship on Arkansas PBS sports.