Just like a Hollywood script the drama could not have been more palpable.
After having to sit on the comfortable cushy seats of the makeshift Fulton bench for majority of the first half due to three fouls, junior Jalen Steele was bound and determined to make something happen in the second half.
An understatement to say the least.
Steele banked in a tough leaner at the buzzer to lift the defending Class AA champions past traditional power Bolivar Central 48-46 and into the title game against Memphis power BTW.
Steele managed 20 points on the contest after being shutout in the first half. He scored the last 15 points for the Falcons as they matched the Tigers bucket for bucket down the stretch.
MTSU signee James Gallman playing on his future home court chipped in with 14 points and showed leadership and poise as he carried the Falcons in the first half.
Bolivar was led by Austin Peay signee Chris Reaves with 13, while Jonathan Hodge and Ricky Tisdale chipped in with 12 apiece.
BTW 61
Brainerd 36
Douglas Rosser led a very balanced Warrior attack with 15 points and senior Larry McGaughey added 14 as BTW moved on to the title game against defending champion Fulton by dispatching of Chattanooga Brainerd 61-36.
The game was never really close as the Warriors began to expand their lead with each ensuing quarter.
Fred Sturdivant concluded a very solid state tourney with 17 points and 9 boards for the Panthers.
