Hoover Boys Extend Win Streak to 44, Advances to 7A State Title Game with Victory Over Central-Phenix City

Brown and London Shine as Hoover Dominates Class 7A Semifinal

BIRMINGHAM, AL – The Hoover Bucs continued their dominant run, securing a 94-67 win over Central-Phenix City in the Class 7A state semifinals at Legacy Arena on Thursday.

With this victory, the Bucs (34-0) have won 44 consecutive games, dating back to last season. They are now poised to chase history in Saturday’s championship game against Florence (27-7), aiming to become the first boys’ team to finish an undefeated season in Class 7A since the classification system expanded in 2014.

“I thought our guys were locked in, ready to play and focused on what we really wanted to do early.” Hoover head coach Scott Ware said following the semifinal showdown.  

Explosive Start Sets the Tone

The Bucs wasted no time in exerting their dominance, jumping to a quick 21-2 lead within the first six minutes. Senior DeWayne Brown, Hoover’s standout 6-foot-9 center, scored on the game’s opening possession, setting the stage for a remarkable performance.

“We were locked in and ready to play,” said Hoover coach Scott Ware, commending his team’s focus from the outset.

Brown’s Powerhouse Performance

Brown delivered a night to remember, finishing with 27 points, 15 rebounds, four assists, and four blocked shots. Displaying remarkable efficiency, he converted 13 of his 14 field goal attempts and hit his lone free throw.

“We want to get him the ball, for sure,” Ware said. “If you play him 1-on-1, good luck to most people.”

Balanced Support from the Bucs

Hoover’s success was far from a one-man show. Senior Salim London contributed 22 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, while Jarett Fairley added 15 points and two steals. Austin Dudley and Seneca Robinson scored 10 and 8 points, respectively, rounding out a well-balanced team performance.

Red Devils’ Efforts Fall Short

Despite facing a challenging opponent, Central-Phenix City (28-4) had standout moments, particularly from Jayddence Ford. The junior guard drained eight 3-pointers en route to a team-high 28 points and dished out four assists. Senior Jacoby Hill, committed to Jacksonville State, added 14 points, six rebounds, and four steals in his final high school game.

However, Hoover’s suffocating defense limited Central to just 33% shooting, and the Red Devils managed only two free-throw attempts throughout the game.

“They set the tone,” Central coach Charles Burkett said. “That team is bigger and stronger. We just didn’t handle that well.”

One Game from Making History

The Bucs now turn their attention to Saturday’s championship showdown against Florence. A win would cement Hoover’s legacy as the first Class 7A boys’ team to complete an undefeated season and claim three consecutive state titles. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:45 p.m.

“No matter what happens Saturday, this is a special group of guys,” Ware said, reflecting on the team’s achievements to date.

Brown added, “The job is not finished.”

Victory on Saturday would make Hoover the 12th boys’ team in Alabama High School Athletic Association history to complete an undefeated season, further solidifying their place among the state’s basketball elite.

FEATURED IMAGE: Central-Phenix City senior center Dewayne Brown is shown scoring two of his game-high 27 points. (AHSAA PHOTO | David Holtsford)

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