Paul W. Bryant Wins First State Hoops Title Since 2017

Stampede Defeats Pinson Valley for Class 6A Championship 

BIRMINGHAM, AL – Paul W. Bryant High School reclaimed its place at the summit of Alabama high school basketball on Saturday, securing a decisive 66-54 win over the Pinson Valley Indians in the AHSAA Boys’ Class 6A championship game at the BJCC’s Legacy Arena. 

For head coach Shon Peck-Love, who proudly wore his 2017 title ring during the game, the victory signified a return to glory. “I wear it every day,” he said. “It’s a reminder of where we’ve been and where we’re heading.” 

The win, fueled by a dominant team performance, highlights the Stampede’s remarkable season, during which the Tuscaloosa squad won 23 of its last 25 games to finish at 27-7. 

Williams Shines 

Javian Williams, the 5-foot-5 tournament MVP and the smallest player on the court, carried the Stampede with 19 points, six rebounds, four assists, and two steals. Williams’ leadership and skill at point guard made a crucial difference for Paul Bryant. 

“Javian is the heart of our team,” said Peck-Love. “He calms us down, sets us up for good shots, and drives our success. He’s our heartbeat.” 

Williams led a well-rounded offensive attack. King Larkin delivered a double-double with 16 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists. Josh Williams added 11 points and seven rebounds, while Ty’Javian Byrd contributed nine points, four rebounds, and three blocked shots. 

Stampede Defense Makes the Difference 

Paul Bryant surged to a 34-20 lead at the half and extended their advantage to 24 points late in the third quarter. The Stampede’s defensive scheme proved critical, holding Pinson Valley to just 36 percent shooting and a dismal 3-of-21 performance from beyond the arc. 

“We hung our hats on defense,” Peck-Love explained. “We knew that the team with the best defensive strategy would come out on top.” 

Pinson Valley struggled to find their rhythm, despite standout performances from Smoke Thomas, who tallied 21 points, 13 rebounds, and Austin Coner, who notched 20 points, five rebounds, and three steals while going a perfect 10-for-10 from the free-throw line. 

A Fight to the End 

Despite falling short, Pinson Valley coach Darrell Barber expressed pride in his team’s effort. “I’m not a moral victory guy, but I’m so proud of these guys,” said Barber, who led Pinson Valley to a state title in 2019. “They fought through adversity all season and never quit. I love these guys.” 

The victory marked Paul Bryant’s second state championship in program history and their first since 2017. For Peck-Love, it’s a fitting reward for a team that started its season with a 4-5 record but refused to give up. 

“We started working in May and didn’t stop,” Peck-Love said. “These guys bought in, believed in themselves, and worked tirelessly to be here. It’s an honor to represent Tuscaloosa on this stage.”