Jackson Moves Past DAR 71-61 in AHSAA Class 4A Boys Semifinals
Birmingham, AL – In a thrilling Class 4A semifinal showdown at the 104th AHSAA State Basketball Championships, the Jackson Aggies escalated their offense in the critical fourth quarter against the DAR Patriots, leading to an exhilarating conclusion on Tuesday night at the BJCC’s Legacy Arena. Under Coach Anthony Hayes’ guidance, the Aggies surged ahead in the final period with a 28-21 run, securing their spot in the Class 4A boys’ state finals with a final score of 71-61. The Aggies, now boasting a 28-2 record, are set to take on the American Christian Patriots, who hold a 28-7 record, in the Class 4A state title game scheduled for Friday afternoon at 5:45 p.m.
Jackson’s Micah Caster, demonstrated exceptional skill by scoring 22 points, including sinking 9-of-10 free throws, contributing three blocks and two steals. The team’s overall performance was bolstered by William Taylor’s 16 points, Landon Duckworth’s 12 points, and Nasir Powell’s contribution of eight points alongside 10 rebounds and two assists.
Hear from Coach Anthony Hayes from @JacksonHighBK1 following his teams victory in the 4A Semifinals pic.twitter.com/C1fQnzxPZB
— AHSAA (@AHSAAUpdates) February 28, 2024
Notably, Jackson excelled in free throws, making 22-of-28 attempts, with 16 in the fourth quarter alone, and showcased a strong defensive game with eight blocks. Keeyun Chapman, while scoring eight points, made significant defensive contributions with seven rebounds and five blocked shots.
The Patriots, under the leadership of Coach Justin Jonus, marked its first State Finals appearance with a commendable performance. The Patriots, finishing the season with a 25-10 record, were competitive from beyond the arc, sinking 8-of-23 three-point attempts, and closely matching the Aggies on the boards. Dezmond Nichols led DAR with 22 points and eight rebounds, followed by Trey Bolt and Peyton Eggleston, who each added 11 points. Lawson Harbin, despite scoring only two points, had a game-high five steals. The Patriots journey to the semifinals was notable, having defeated the two-time Class 4A defending state champion Jacksonville Golden Eagles and a strong Anniston Bulldogs squad, marking their historic first trip to the Class 4A state tournament Final Four.
Click here to check out schedules and scores from the 2024 AHSAA State Basketball Finals.
Cover Photo: Jackson’s Joseph Taylor (11) lays in a put-back as DAR’s Reid Lemley (5) and
Landon Broadway (24) defend. (AHSAA PHOTO | David Holtsford)
