DAYTON, Ohio — Richmond Heights overwhelmed Convoy Crestview in the second half, to repeat as Ohio High School Athletic Association boys' basketball Division IV state champions, winning 70-26.
The Spartans used a 35-0 run after the break, resulting in a running clock, and a 66-22 lead. Richmond Heights only allowed a total of four points in the second half, and none in the third quarter.
That smothering defense in the state tournament is nothing new for Richmond Heights (29-0), which shut out Berlin Hiland in last year’s Division IV state semifinal, and allowed the Hawks just five points in the second half.
Ironically, The Knights’ took momentum into the locker room, as Mitch Temple’s half-court heave at the first half horn pulled Crestview to within 31-22. The score was deadlocked at 16, before a 10-0 run in the second quarter, creating some breathing space for the Spartans.
One of the top sophomores in the state, Dorian Jones led all scorers with 25 points, including seven made three-pointers, establishing a new state tournament record in Division IV. The previous mark of 6 was held by Todd Humrichouser of Worthingon Christian, against McGuffey Upper Scioto Valley in 1994.
Jeremy Wilson added 12 points and 9 rebounds, while De’Erick Barber and Demarris Wilson, Jr. chipped in nine apiece.
Gavin Etzler’s seven points led Crestview (25-4).
For Richmond Heights, it’s a 49th straight win, and second consecutive Division IV state title, and the first to repeat in that division since Berlin Hiland in 2011-12. The Spartans defeated Russia, 66-51, in the semifinals on Friday.
This incredible run might not be close to being over, either. The Spartans only have one senior on the roster, and the 44-point victory was the largest margin of any state championship game ever in the 101 year history of the OHSAA basketball tournament.