Highland Home Knocks Off Lafayette 56-51 to Move to Class 2A State Finals

Birmingham, AL – In a thrilling Class 2A boys’ semifinal clash on Monday nigh in Bimingham’s Legacy Arenat, the Highland Home Flying Squadron narrowly edged out LaFayette with a 56-51 victory, booking their spot in the Class 2A state title game. The contest marking the end of the first day of competition in the 104th AHSAA State Basketball Tournament. 

The Flying Squadron, had a slow start to the game, with their first point coming at the 3:03 mark of the first quarter. This came courtesy of Jakaleb Faulk, who successfully converted two free throws. Shortly after, Brice McKenzie scored Highland Home’s first field goal with a 3-pointer at 1:50 of the opening period.

Despite their slow offensive start, Highland Home’s defense was formidable, holding LaFayette scoreless in the opening period. The Squadron led 13-0 when Deundra Vines finally netted the Bulldogs’ first points, six minutes and 19 seconds into the second period.

Click here to check out the full schedule and results from the 2024 State Finals. 

From then on, the game was fiercely contested. LaFayette (24-8) managed to reduce a 14-point deficit (51-37) to just five points with 3:09 left on the clock.

Highland Home’s victory was largely due to a standout performance from Faulk, who contributed 24 points and 10 rebounds. He sank 10-of- 13 from the charity stripe to put the game on ice. McKenzie added 16 points, while Tyler Chaney and Greg Tate chipped in with eight points apiece.

LaFayette, under the guidance of coach Chase Lewis, had three players score in double figures. Key’Lun Powell led with 15 points, followed by Vaderrian Story with 13 and Branaviyun Story with 11.

Head Coach Justin Cope’s Flying Squadron, is now set to face Mars Hill Bible in theClass 2A finals on Friday morning at 10:45.

Cover Photo: Highland Home’s Jakaleb Faulk (15) leaps high to take a shot as LaFayette’s Branaviuyn Story (13) and Jayden Thomason (15) defend.  (AHSAA PHOTO | David Holtsford)