The Philip Simmons Iron Horses won the 2 A Lower State Championship over the Mullins Auctioneers in varsity basketball action played at the Florence Civic Center on Saturday, February 28.
Although the Iron Horses controlled the tipoff, the Auctioneers got off to an impressive start in this action-packed, physical game. With 1:32 remaining in the first quarter, Mullins led 18-1. At halftime, the Auctioneers led 20-13. Mullins committed 5 fouls while Philip Simmons committed 2 fouls.
The two teams raced back and forth while bumping into one another. The momentum was beginning to change. With 4:19 remaining in the first half, Philip SImmons had a 1-point lead, 24-23. The game was tied at 27 with 2:39 remaining in the second quarter. The Iron Horses enjoyed a 5-point lead, 34-29, at halftime. Philip Simmons committed 4 fouls in the second quarter, and Mullins committed 2 fouls.
The Iron Horses’ Aston Kellerman connected for a 3-point basket to begin the third quarter. Mullins’ Kakarai Worley banked a shot in for 2 points. Amir Lee sank 2 free throws for the Auctioneers. Jack Mevold, one of the Iron Horses, sank a free throw. Mullins’ Amir Lee tapped one into the basket for 2 points followed by a basket by Philip Simmons. Philip Simmons’ Hopper Afman hit a 3-pointer from the corner. With 3:43 remaining in the third quarter, Philip Simmons had an 11-point lead, 44-33. With 2:12 remaining in the third quarter, Philip Simmons led 50-36. After 3 quarters of play, Philip Simmons led by 13 points, 56-43.
The action continued to be fast and furious throughout the fourth quarter. Mullins committed 5 fouls while Philip Simmons committed 1 foul.
This basketball season, the Mullins Auctioneers won 22 games and lost 8 games and was 11-1 in region play.
The Philip Simmons Iron Horses won 19 games and lost 7 games and was 8-2 in Region play.
The Mullins Auctioneers head coach is Eric Troy. He is assisted by Sean Brunson, JimDonovan Reaves, and Zachary Reed. The Statistician is Matt Bessetti.
The Philip Simmons head coach is Garrett Campbell.
Congratulations, Mullins, on a great season. The fans thank you for the memories.
Philip Simmons will play in the 2 A State Championship game next week in Columbia at the Colonial Life Arena.
PHOTO GALLERY
Photos by Johnnie Daniels/The Dillon County News, LLC
