It was a great matchup for high school football fans in Lynchburg last Thursday night in September. The reigning state champs in VHSL 3A, the LCA Bulldogs, are ready for another tough matchup in the Seminole. The Heritage Pioneers are making the short trip over to Bulldog Stadium and looking to take control of the district.
Both teams will benefit from a win and make a statement to the rest of the district. A win improves the playoff positioning as well.
Heritage was primed and ready to take the battle early. The Pioneers jumped out to a 12-7 lead and in the second quarter looked to be in control. However, Gideon Davidson and crew had other ideas. The Bulldogs bark got as loud as their bite and they proceeded to score 20 unanswered points to take a dominant upper hand at 27-12 into halftime.
The halftime break came at the right time as the Pioneers regrouped and the defense came up big. Heritage scored in their first drive of the second half and then added a 2-pt conversion. LCA was bruised but found the strength to respond and took a 34-20 lead into the fourth quarter. The defense made big plays in crunch time and Heritage kept clawing back. After scoring to close the lead to 34-27, the Pioneers needed the defense to lockdown. The defense rose to the challenge and force a turnover on downs by the Bulldogs. However, LCA was just as impressive and got the ball back with a few minutes remaining.
With the game in the balance, the Bulldogs took a chance on fourth down and the gutsy play calling on fourth down moved the chains. The conversion was enough to help the offense run out the clock and leave the Pioneers just short of a tremendous comeback.
The loss was Heritage’s (3-1) first on the year while the Bulldogs (4-0) stay undefeated in the 2024 season.
Stars of the Game
?David Bradley - Heritage
8 carries for 165yds; 2 TDs
?Gideon Davidson - LCA
26 carries for 225yds with 3TDS and a 94-yd Kick Return for a TD; 6 tackles on defense
EMSPORTS 9/28/2024
In a early season Seminole District battle, the Pioneers and Cavaliers engaged in a proverbial fistfight on the gridiron.
Heritage and Jefferson Forest were tied up in the first half of the game 7-7. The defenses were on display and the yards were hard and few to come back.
The total yards for the first half were Heritage with 94 rushing yards and nine yards passing. Their total of 103 yards was slightly less than the 110 total yards of the Cavaliers. Jefferson Forest had 68 rushing yards and 42 yards passing before halftime.
Heritage had seven first downs compared to the Jefferson Forest total of five first downs.
Jefferson Forest scored first with a 3-yard run by Quarterback Dylan Marks on to have David Bradley respond with a 2-yard run for a touchdown for Heritage, to tie the game up In the first half.
The second half was even more defense as Jefferson Forest fumbled the ball on Heritage 19-yard line when closing in on the redzone. Heritage capitalized on the mistake and the quarterback, Slash hit WR Tavion Clark with a 21-yard pass to put the Pioneers on 31-yard line. The pair then connected again for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. Slash found his favorite target with a 31-yard pass to Tavion Clark with 2:22 remaining in game. This pushed the score to a final tally of 21-7.
EM-SPORTS 9/20/24
Two middle school rivals met for the first time this year Linkhorne took on crosstown foe, Sandusky, in the opening game of the year.
Both teams went scoreless in the first half before Sandusky regrouped for the second half. In the third quarter, Dajuan Austin threw a 50-yard touchdown pass to Cristin Walker for the first score of the game. Austin scored a 2-point conversion, and Sandusky went up 8-0 in the third quarter.
Linkhorne got on the board with a two-yard touchdown by
Tayma Scott, but the failed conversion left the score at 8-6, Sandusky. The Spartans were able to run the clock out in the fourth quarter to end the game.
EM-SPORTS.ORG 9/4/24
EM-SPORTS.ORG 8/30/24
It was a big night for Gideon Davidson, who had 126 yards in the first half and three touchdowns for the game. Davidson scored a 31-yard touchdown with 7:54 seconds in the first quarter. LCA blocked a field goal when Salem reached the 18-yard line of LCA. LCA flipped the field with the return and in a few plays later punched in a rushing touchdown when James Deyo took it in from the 1-yard line to make the score 14-0.
Salem came back in the second quarter to score a 14-yard pass from Taylor to Logan. Tyler Jackson, a freshman quarterback at LCA, threw a nine-yard pass to Jackson Damon for TD.
LCA didn’t look back and took a 20-7 lead into halftime.
The second half was a classic slugfest as both teams traded hard hits, solid tackling and exchanged multiple scores. The Spartans made a late charge with a 7-yard run by Persinger for a TD. It was too little and too late. LCA opened the season at home in the friendly confines of Bulldog Stadium with an impressive 35-21 victory.
Salem may have fallen short on this evening however it will fuel their fire as they look to start the journey back through the rest of the season and find themselves knocking in the door for another VHSL Class 4 championship.
EM-SPORTS 7/24/24
The summer weather is a time for vacations or relaxation. In some places, the summer is a time to re-charge and travel. In Amherst County, summer is usually the best time to see the best athletes compete on the baseball and softball diamonds.
The newest addition to the landscape of youth sports arrived in the form of a basketball league. The Amherst County Rec and Parks Dept in association with Scott Campbell, local youth and rec coach, coordinate and organized basketball league hosted by Monelison Middle School.
The four-week league brought some of the best players in grades 3-8 together, on Monday through Thursday.
The players were split into two divisions: 3rd - 5th and 6th- 8th.
The league was a first of a kind and it was a success.
The players developed over the for weeks in a competitive environment as well as met some people they did not know. There were fathers and sons, friends da and cousins, all looking to battle for bragging rights as well as a victory twice a week, for the games played.
When it was all said and done, the leagues success brought energetic crowds looking to cheer on their friends and loved ones in the comforts of an air-conditioned gym.
EM-SPORTS kept a close eye on the proceedings and awarded several players for their outstanding efforts and performances over the course of the eight-game schedule.
In the Monday/Wednesday league (3-5) division: Knox Wilson, of the Grizzlies, took home the Most Valuable Player Award. The picture is above.
In the Tuesday/Thursday league (6-8) division: The Heat team had three recipients. The Most Valuable Player was Carson Bryant, the Best Defensive Player to Cason Mann and the Most Improved Player to Frankie Scott. The best defensive award was earned by Hayden Hooper of the Warriors. The best rebounder award was for Zyaire Smith of the Suns.
The picture is below.
Congrats to all on a fantastic season and a bright future for those playing in the summer league.
EMSPORTS 7/18/2024
For anyone that has played a sport, it is an honor to play and compete for titles. Victories are sweet and losses can hurt but the goal is to be able to play.
On the other side is the person who participates, but is not looking to win or lose. Instead that person has the privilege and duty to advise and make tough decisions.
An official or umpire has an equally important part in a contest and rarely do they get recognized for their hard work.
That was not the case when a hometown hero from Amherst was given all his flowers and then some for his outstanding work and achievements on the baseball diamond.
On Opening Day 2024, the Amherst Youth Baseball Association took the time to highlight and honor in of their own, Gary Mays, Sr.
Mr. Mays has worked tirelessly and endlessly to support the thousands of youth baseball players in the county of Amherst with his dedication, professionalism and high character as a baseball umpire for many years.
Mr. Mays has served dutifully for nearly 40 years and was bestowed the gift of having a field named for him.
The Gary Mays Field distinction is most notable for it is the first field in the area that carries this title exclusively for a Black man. Mr. Mays is a living legend and has not stopped umpiring. He no longer just umpires on the "big" field or a field with a random number. He now operates in the comfort of the field that recognizes his name.
The many young people who will play on this field will now be privileged to play on Mays Field. A field with a legacy and a name that will never be forgotten.
Congratulations to Gary Mays, Sr. for his lifelong commitment to the Amherst Youth Baseball Association and the achievement of the highest honor for all those who will call his name when they enter onto this baseball diamond.
EMSPORTS.org 5/8/2024
BASEBALL
Seminole District
E.C. Glass 10, Jefferson Forest 5
INNING 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 r h e
E.C. Glass: 6 0 1 3 0 0 0 —10 9 2
Jefferson Forest: 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 — 5 5 4
WP: Cooper Campbell. LP: Cayden Janney.
Highlights: Glass — Cooper Campbell 5 IP, 4 H, 1 R/ER, 1 BB, 10 Ks (2-2, 2 RBIs); Tyler Ruhl 2 IP, 1 H, 4 R, 0 ER, 3 BB, 5 Ks (2-4, 3 RBIs); Drew Barnett 1-3, 2B, 2 R. Jefferson Forest — Michael Rowlands 3-4, 2 RBIs; Landon Mitchell 1-4, 2 RBIs, R; Beckett Gilleland 1-2, 2B, R.
Records: Jefferson Forest 8-1. E.C. Glass 8-0.
Both teams entered the baseball game undefeated.
Do you believe in miracles? It is not only a question but a famous exclamation by Al Michaels in the 1980 Winter Olympics.
At the time and still today, it rings in the ears of sports fans everywhere and more than that, it best explains the NC State Wolfpack’s five day journey in the ACC tournament.
It is hard to think a team that won nine of their 20 conference games would become capable of winning five games in a row. The Wolfpack defied the odds and made history along the way. They were only the second team, in a power conference, UConn (2011), to win five consecutive games in five consecutive days.
In the history of conference tournaments, generally the team that wins a couple of games in a row, tends to run on fumes and out of energy by game three or maybe four. That was not the case with NC State, who not only defeated five straight ACC opponents but took out the top three seeds to win the title. The victims were Louisville, Syracuse, Duke, Virginia and North Carolina.
The other incredible fact is the Wolfpack had not won their conference tournament crown since 1987. This was one of the longest droughts between titles since the ACC began.
The historic run captivated the fans and nation for five thrilling days especially winning in dramatic fashion in the semis with a buzzer beater to tie the game and beat Virginia in overtime. The momentum carried over into the championship games as they avenged two losses to fellow Tobacco Road resident, UNC, the overall regular season champ.
The leader of this outfit is coach Kevin Keatts. The name and man is very familiar to the Lynchburg and surrounding areas. Keatts was a multi-star athlete at Heritage High School and has been a successful coach at Hargrave Military Academy, UNC-Wilmington and now NC State. He found success and cut his teeth as an assistant under Rick Pitino at Louisville, were he was on the national championship team in 2013.
Keatts has made a tremendous impact in each of his coaching stops but this is his first ACC tournament title. At Hargrave, he coached several NBA 1st-round draft picks as well as an undefeated national title team at the postgraduate level. As the UNC-W Seahawks’ coach, his team won the Colonial Athletic Conference in each of his three years and he earned conference Coach of the Year twice.
The win guarantees the team an automatic bid into the NCAA tournament where they also qualified last year. The back-to back bids represent the two NCAA tournament visits in the seven years Keatts has been the coach.
The Wolfpack didn't disappoint as they pulled an upset in their first game versus Texas Tech. NC State used the potent combination of an uptempo pace with a mix or inside and outside
scoring to race past the Red Raiders, 80-67 in the opening round in the Field of 64. Ben Middlebrooks scored a game and career high 21 points for NC State.
This is it. The talking is over, no more hoping and waiting. The state championship a game measured in minutes but the results will last forever. The time in preseason and multiple practices for the players will look to pay off in hopes of being crowned the champion.
In the matchup of Class 3A opponents, the LCA Bulldogs (26-0) were looking to find that elusive title. In addition to being so close last year, this year’s squad is looking to make history as the first ever champion in LCA’s basketball program (men or women) as well as finishing undefeated.
The Meridian Mustangs (22-5) have earned their trip to the finals with a stingy defense and great shooting. The team out of Falls Church City, was formerly known as George Mason High School. The school has been called Meridian for two years now and this is their first trip to the finals with their new moniker.
The offense from LCA was high powered and sparked by the powerhouse 1-2 punch of guard Avery Mills and center Emmy Stout. The team average nearly 70 points and had won their last 11 games by double digits. The Mustangs countered with their own inside-outside combination in guard Ellie Friesen and post player Eleanor Stuft. The team averages 57 points while allowing only 40 per game on the year.
The teams were both playing for their first title respectively and it started off as a draw. As both teams worked out the initial nervousness, the points were a premium. The go to-players made big plays like Friesen (11 points) scoring eight points for Meridian. Mills scored six points to pace the ladies from Lynchburg. The score was tied at 14 at the end of the 1st quarter. The beginning was a great indicator of a wonderful matchup that was to unfold.
The second quarter was very different. The defenses showed up in a big way. The high powered offense of LCA could only muster two points. At the same time, Meridian created a little separation, scoring seven points and taking a 21-16 lead into halftime.
As the teams re-appeared from the locker room, it was evident the victory would not be predictable or easy. The third quarter was another back and forth as each team traded baskets with Meridian taking more control and stretching the lead to seven, 33-26. The Mustangs were in a position of looking ahead with eight minutes left to claim the state title.
The last quarter was all LCA had left. They had struggled to gain any traction and the high octane offense had been neutralized. The undefeated dream was slowly becoming a nightmare and momentum was not in their favor.
As fellow Liberty University commits, Avery and Stout, stared at the stark reality of losing their last high school game, it was apparent they had to take over. Even though they both had scored 21 of the 26 points, more was needed. The two seniors responded as Mills and Stout did the heavy lifting, scoring all 18 points in the fourth quarter. Mills finished with a game high 23 points (12 in the fourth) and Stout’s 16 points (23 rebounds) demonstrated the impact of this tandem in crunch time.
In response, the Mustangs (22-6) could not keep the Bulldogs off the boards or out the paint. When the defense was called upon, it didn’t get that much needed stop. Maureen Tremblay (15 rebounds) did all she could to make the Mustangs victorious. She scored eight of her team high 15 points in the fourth quarter. The team scored 10 but could not get enough to overcome LCA’s explosion.
The victory caps a magical season for the Bulldogs. The undefeated record is icing on the cake. The Mustangs had the tables turned against them as LCA finished with seven blocked shots (Meridian had 0) and ten steals (Meridian had 8). A memorable season finished with an unfortunate ending.
Avery Mills and Emmy Stout spearheaded this team to a 27-0 state championship season. The only other player for LCA to score was Kayla Rivard with five points (all in first half). They showcased their talents and leadership abilities by catapulting their team in comeback fashion. The victory will have life to endless memories and unspeakable joy.
CONGRATS TO THE VHSL CLASS 3 STATE CHAMPS: LCA BULLDOGS!
EMSPORTS.ORG 3/8/2024
In the course of a basketball season, it is inevitable to avoid some challenges. A losing streak, poor shooting or just a night where everything goes the other teams’ way. In the Region 4D semi-finals, a couple of familiar foes got together with more than a mere coincidence on the line.
The EC Glass Hilltoppers were the defending region 4 champs and fell short of a the Class 4 title in the championship game last season. They were one step away from securing another invite into the state tournament.
The Jefferson Forest Cavaliers had worked hard all year and earned the home game with a strong season. More importantly, they wanted a taste of the state tournament, which had eluded them for over five years since they made it to the state Final Four in 2019.
Another nugget was the fact the teams had split the two regular season contests with Glass as co-champions and winners of their last matchup. A sense revenge was on the minds of the Cavaliers who remembered the lost at home and knew this time, there would be no tomorrow.
The game started out as a defensive duel but JF eventually found their stroke thanks to the hot hand of senior Isaiah Scott. Scott was the catalyst and the armor bearer. He found holes in and around the Glass defense to the tune of 14 first half points. As he was leading in offense, he and the other teammates, shut down the Glass shooting and the vaunted Glass full court pressure.
The halftime score of 27-14, indicated that JF was in control and the Hilltoppers as a team were matched by the individual scoring Scott.
The second half would not be smooth sailing and as is the case in playoffs, both teams picked you the pace and the scoring. Even though Glass made several charges and cut into the double-digit lead, JF was able to balance out the scoring and keep a reasonable distance without ever losing the entire advantage.
Glass didn’t go down quietly but, in the end, the Cavaliers were one step ahead and made solid plays to keep the lead and walk away with a hard fought 58-50 victory. Glass (15-8) ends their
season with another championship of the Seminole District, while Jefferson Forest (17-6) moves on as the last district team standing in the playoff hunt.
EMSPORTS.ORG 2/20/2024
The 2023/2024 basketball season is nearing the regular season finish line. Teams have battled, clawed and scratched their way through challenges both good and bad. Every season has a special matchup and tonight’s clash in the Hill City was no different. The first time the Heritage Pioneers faced off with the EC Glass Hilltoppers it was in in the McCue gym, where Glaas calls home.
The Pioneers looked liked the team to beat in that contest. They held a double digit lead in the fourth quarter but could not close the deal. Glass made a spectacular comeback and won by three points.
Did someone say deja vu’?
The second battle in the Pioneers’ Fieldhouse followed the same script. A close back and forth gave way to Heritage taking control and holding a late fourth quarter lead.
As it was before, Glass was down but not out. The Hilltoppers staged a furious comeback and scored seven of the last nine points to tie the game at 53-53. The final points came in three clutch free throws with under two seconds to play.
In overtime, Heritage took a 62-60 lead with the ball, with under 30 seconds to play. However, the Pioneers were unable to score and the door was open for the Hilltoppers. They made the most of the opportunity, with a made three-point basket with under 30 seconds. The Pionners had one last chance to claim the win but weee unable to score. The Hilltoppers finished off the victory with two free throws to secure a season sweep with a final score of 65-62.
The win snapped the eight game Heritage winning streak which began after the initial loss at Glass. Both teams look forward to the playoffs in their respective regional tournaments. The win also sets up a winner take all matchup in the regular season finale, when Glass hosts Rustburg for a chance to win the Seminole District.
EMSPORTS.org 2/9/2024
EM-SPORTS.ORG 1/27/24
Carmel took an early lead over VES in a boy's Basketball game Played Saturday at VES in Lynchburg Virginia. VES fought back to tire the game up 18-18 in the second quarter. Carmel did not score a point in the second quarter and VES only scored three points in that quarter of the game.
It was a very physical game with VES pulling it out by a score of 55-54.
High scorers:
VES: Vuk Stanic 20 points, Billy Koudelka 13 points
Carmel: M Lewis 18 points
EM-SPORTS.ORG 1/19/24
Rustburg basketball team is unstoppable they remind me of the Dunbar Poets team in 1966. They were a fast-break team who averaged 100 points a game.
They had players such as Wheeler Hughes, Donald Culpepper, Hillary Scott, Lawrence Jefferson and Buddy Davis.
Rustburg is undefeated in district at 7-0. The Red Devils went up by 22 points as they used the fast break to score by hitting the open man. Rustburg shot 59% from floor while holding EC
Glass to only 35%.
Glass had 13 offensive rebounds while Rustburg had seven offensive boards.
The Red Devils were led by seniors Tayvon Vassal-Crider, Elijah Sherard, and Terrance Parrish in the 75-57 victory at home in the Rustburg High School gym.
Vassal - Crider finished with 17 points, seven assists and two blocks. Sherard had 10 points and Parrish led all scorers with a game-high 20 points.
Adrian Farmer was the leading scorer for Glass with 17 points and teammate Zach Wilson chipped in 11 points.
EM-SPORTS.ORG 1/10/24
Round one between EC Glass Boys and LCA, The Hilltoppers came out with the win 69-57
They'll be playing again later on in the season round two. Since LCA joined the Seminole District, they have had tough games every time they played each other.
Glass put on a full-court press that caused problems for LCA to get the ball up the court. Both teams had quick guards, but Glass was able to force more turnovers.
Glass and LCA scored a lot of points inside the paint. It was tied at 35-35 with 4:00 minutes to go in the third quarter. Grey Milam, a freshman at Glass, went to work, scoring 10 points in the
fourth quarter and finish with 14 points. Gavin Arthur had 12 points Glass.
LCA was led in scoring by Lawson Sweeney with 26 points.
Rustburg Red Devils’ Boys Basketball is off to a fantastic start in the 2023-2024 season. The team showed promise last year with a strong 7-0 start. That beginning spearheaded a successful season that ended with a region 3C semifinal loss to Spotswood.
The Red Devils looked to build on that momentum and they have responded with a 9-0 start including a win over defending Class 3A State Champ Northside, in Northside’s Holiday Classic tournament. That win placed them in the finals to face Tunstall High School.
The Tunstall Trojans have been a powerful program in Region 3D for years. That was evident when they won the first 10 games of last year and have repeated this season as well. That last year’s team fell in the regional semifinals to Cave Spring and felt they have unfinished business.
The battle of these two combatants maybe a precursor for a state tournament matchup in March 2024. Until then, the victor will have to settle for some early season bragging rights and continue to keep their record unblemished.
The Red Devils faced a team of taller players as Tunstall who averaged over 6 feet per starter. Tunstall would have to defend a team full of quickness and solid guard play who ran a constant motion offense.
The start of the game was a sign of things to come for Rustburg and it was not pleasant. The Trojans raced out to an impressive first quarter lead of 17 to 5.
As Rustburg attempted to limit Tunstall’s size advantage, the Trojans gobbled up missed shots and converted layups at will. The lead only got larger, and Rustburg could only watch Tunstall do as they pleased. The halftime score was Tunstall 42 - Rustburg 14. The leading scorer, JaMarcus Brown, outscored the Red Devils by himself with 18 points. Both teams took care of the ball as Rustburg committed four turnovers whereas Tunstall had five.
Enter the third quarter, Rustburg looked to make a dent into the lead. The Trojans did not comply and continued to apply pressure. The score into the third quarter saw Tunstall 58 to 27 and it was all but officially over. The Red Devils did not quit, but Tunstall won at every category and their size, length and pressure was too much to overcome as Tunstall ran away with a 69-41 victory. Tunstall finished with 20 offensive rebounds.
Tournament MVP, Brown, finished with a game high 20 points. His teammates, JRae Edmonds and Zay Cobbs added 13 and 12 points each. Tunstall scored in double figures in each quarter. Rustburg was led in scoring at 10 points by Terrence Parrish.
The valiant Red Devils scored more points each quarter and matched Tunstall point for point in the second half (27).
The win gives Chatham an 11-0 record as they prepare for 2024. The Red Devils suffer loss their first loss of the season (9-1). They now turn their attention to their Seminole district opponents.
EMSPORTS.org 12/29/2023
12;21/23 EM-SPORTS.ORG Rustburg come out Victorious in tight game at Rustburg Thursday night. Rustburg had four players in double figures with points guard Elijah Sherard leading his team to win with 20 points and 10 assists Elijah is one of the best guard in the state of Virginia. His teammates added Cooper Stamn with 15 points, Tayvon Vassal- Crider with 17 points and Moorman has 10 points. Rustburg rally late past Jefferson Forest 60-44 in district game. Rustburg stay undefeated 7-0. Forest missed a lot of layouts in the final minutes of the game. Rustburg had a couple of players sick and Forest kep player Donovan Elliott is out for
the season with an ankle injury. Jefferson Forest top score was Cooper Stamn with 15 points. Jefferson Forest JV beat Rustburg 42-31 Bennett Paris had
15 points for Forest win.
LINKHORNE 30 SANDUSKY 21
BOTH TEAMS PLAY AN UP-TEMPO GAME. LINKHORNE COMES OUT VICTORIOUS IN TIGHT GAME AT HERITAGE HIGH SCHOOL. THE JAGUARS, BEHIND A STRONG SHOOTING PERFORMANCE, WERE ABLE TO MAINTAIN A LEAD FOR MOST OF THE SECOND HALF OF ACTION. THE TWO TEAMS SCRAPPED TO GET AN EDGE.
FOR LINKHORNE, COLES AND GREMELLAN TURNED IN A STRONG PERFORMARMANCE WITH COLES SCORING 11 POINTS AND GREMELLAN HAD 7 POINTS.
SAUNDERS LED ALL SCORERS WITH 14 POINTS FOR SANDUSKY.
EM-SPORTS 12/20/23
THE LADY POETS WERE VICTORIOUS AT HERITAGE HIGH SCHOOL IN LYNCHBURG, VIRGINIA, DEFEATING THE SANDUSKY MIDDLE SCHOOL LADY SPARTANS. BOTH TEAMS STARTED REAL SLOW BUT DUNBAR'S DEFENSE NEVER LET UP AND EVENTUALLY THE OFFENSE PULLED AWAY.
DUNBAR LEADING SCORER WAS AYANNA WITH 10 POINTS.
SANDUSKY TOP SCORER WAS D. ALEXANDER WITH 5 POINTS.
FINAL SCORE DUNBAR 37 SANDUSKY 13
12/20/23 EM-SPORTS.ORG
VHSL Announces 2023 Class 3 All-State Football Team
Liberty Christian Academy’s Gideon Davidson selected offensive POY; Lafayette’s Peter Cook selected defensive POY; Liberty Christian Academy’s Frank Rocco named Coach of the Year
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — The Virginia High School League announces its 2023 Class 3 all-state football team. LCA junior running back Gideon Davidson is the Class 3 Offensive Player of the Year, and Lafayette senior defensive end Peter Cook is the Class 3 Defensive Player of the Year. LCA head coach Frank Rocco is the Class 3 Coach of the Year.
The 6’0”, 185-pound Davidson rushed for 2,716 yards for a whopping 13-yard average per carry, with 46 total touchdowns for the Bulldogs this season. Davidson is the 76th player nationally and the No. 4 running back in the country from the 2025 recruiting class, according to 247Sports Composite rankings, committed to Clemson in June. In three seasons for the Bulldogs, he has rushed for 5,343 yards and has totaled 87 touchdowns. In the state championship game against Lafayette, Davidson rushed for 302 yards and three touchdowns, including a 90-yard run for a score in the 28-14 win.
The 6’0”, 190-pound Cook led a stingy Lafayette defense that only allowed 119 points, including six shutouts and allowing only one touchdown in four other games. He finished his senior year with 124 tackles, 25 tackles for loss, 22 sacks, three forced fumbles, and recovered seven fumbles, along with two touchdowns. In the state title game, Cook recorded five tackles (3 solo/2 asst.). He remains uncommitted.
Head Coach Frank Rocco led LCA to a 14-0 record and the school’s first-ever VHSL state football championship with a 28-14 win over Lafayette in the Class 3 finals played at Liberty University’s Williams Stadium. Rocco has guided the Bulldogs to a 175-32 record, taking over the program in 2004, stepping away for a few years, and returning in 2015. He has a career record 266-84-2, including six state championships in the Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association (VISSA).
The all-state football team consists of 32 players (Offense: one quarterback; four linemen; one center; three running backs; three receivers; one tight end; one kicker; one kick returner; one all-purpose offensive player (Defense: four defensive linemen; five linebackers; four defensive backs; one punter; one punt returner; one all-purpose defensive player).
Only those players selected to the all-region first-team are eligible for selection to the all-state team. The all-state selection committee comprises eight coaches, with two from each region.
12/15/20223
12/13/23 EM-SPORTS.ORG) Dunbar and LCA Undefeated meet for the first time this year at Dunbar Gym. The home team came out on top. Dunbar top score Abbitt had 13 points and Brarindor with 11 points. LCA cut the lead by nine points 20-11 at the end of the third quarter. Dunbar got most of the points inside the paint. Dunbar outscored LCA in all four quarters. LCA top score Z Rossel 8 points.
The Virginia Cavaliers looked forward to starting ACC play in the first Saturday in December. In the previous game, the Hoos returned to their impressive defensive form with a win against the high-powered 14th ranked Texas A&M Aggies. The win at home was Virginia’s 19th victory in their last 20 home contests and they didn’t want the success to stop.
The Cavaliers (6-1) focused their attention on ACC rival, the Syracuse Orange, who were going through a transition. The identity of this program had been established by Hall of Fame Coach Jim Boeheim, who retired after 47 years leading the program to great heights. His replacement, Adrian Autry, was a former star in Syracuse and was now preparing to raise the program back to the top of the ACC.
The Cavaliers and Syracuse have played some memorable games since the ‘cuse came into the league over a decade ago. This matchup would be a little different but a young Syracuse team would have to deal with the energy and enthusiasm only found in John Paul Jones.
The start was good for the visitors. The Orange jumped out to a 5-0 start and looked to capitalize on the momentum. However, the Cavaliers woke up out of the slow start and took the lead about five minutes in on a Reece Beekman layup. The early lead of 7-5 began a back and forth where the two teams changed leads several times. Eventually, Syracuse tied the game at 17-17 on a Maliq Brown basket with nearly seven minutes to play. Syracuse was still in the game and gaining confidence.
It would be as close as the ‘Cuse would get for the remainder of the contest. Jacob Groves made two free throws and Virginia never looked back. The start of a 20-7 scoring run gave Virginia a comfortable lead at the halftime. The first half was owned by Issac McKneely, the sharp shooting guard from Virginia. His 16 points was already a career high and it helped elevate the Cavaliers to a 37-24 lead. He knocked downs 6 of 9 shots and 4 theee-pointers in six attempts. The team shot over 55% for the half and over 44% from behind the 3pt arc. In contrast, the Orange cooled off after a strong first 12 minutes and finished shooting 37% from the floor and 37.5% from the 3pt territory.
The second half was only a greater extension of the first as the Cavaliers could hardly miss.
The Cavaliers continue the onslaught and the lead grew to 20 (55-35) after another McKneely three-point splash. In less than 90 seconds, McKneely hit another 3, his sixth of the game and the Hoos were cruising at 58-35 with over 13 minutes to play.
Syracuse, preciously known as an aggressive zone team, tried and failed in the man-to-man scheme. Their effort to switch to zone and even a full court press was even more futile. The Cavs passed over, around and through the Orange’s defense. The crisp ball movement led to easy baskets in the paint and multiple slam dunks.
When Reece Beekman and Taine Murray converted back to back, three pointers, the crowd nearly took the roof off the place. The score had ballooned to 72-40 and the despair was all over the Syracuse bench. It was just a matter of play it out the remainder of the game as Virginia subbed freely while Syracuse continued to use their starters in an effort to make the deficit reasonable.
Taine Murray’s next three pointer put the Cavs up 75-42 and it all basically icing in the cake. The final score of 84-62 showed Syracuse playing hard until the last buzzer.
McKneely’s career high of 22 points (6/8 on 3ptrs) led all scorers. Andrew Rohde (10 pts) and Reece Beekman (13 pts) joined the double digit category. Syracuse got most of their production from JJ Starling with 16 points and Maliq Brown contributed 10 off the bench. Ten of UVA’s 12 players scored.
Stats:
Virginia shot a blazing 55% for the game and a hotter 57% from behind the 3pt arc. Syracuse shot a respectable 41% from the floor but a dismal 25% from 3pt distance.
Virginia won the rebounding battle at 33 to 27 and forced more turnovers (14) than they committed (10).
The win gives Virginia a 7-1 record and 1-0 in ACC. Syracuse drops to 5-3 overall and they are now 0-1 at the start of ACC play.
EMSPORTS.org 12/2/2023
The newly created ACC-SEC Challenge was in its inaugural format. It gave the nation great theatre for college basketball on TV. The seven cross-conference matchups featured 14 of the best teams with multiple ranked squads.
Virginia (5-1) returned home after an uneven pre-Thanksgiving trip to Florida for the Fort Meyers Tournament. The Hoos were ranked 24th but after a blowout loss to Wisconsin and a narrow escape over West Virginia, the Cavaliers needed a trip back to friendlier confines.
The 14th ranked Texas A&M Aggies (6-1) boasted one of the top players in the SEC in Henry Coleman III, a former UVA recruit and now a double-double machine in College Station. Another familiar face was the return of Buzz Williams, the former head coach of arch rival Virginia Tech, now the head coach of Texas A&M.
The Cavaliers and Aggies were both looking for redemption having lost their first games last week in separate tournaments. They were looking to regain momentum as the month winds down and the competition heats up. Each team was missing a key member. The Aggies were without the services of Tyrece Radford, the combo guard who fills up the stat sheet. Virginia was lacking the playmaking ability and quickness of point guard Dante Harris who was sidelined with a foot injury.
The high scoring Aggies scored over 70 points a game. They were facing another fantastic Virginia packline defense whose stinginess was evident allowing under 50 points a contest.
With a reworked lineup, the starters did all the scoring but each player made a strong impression. The Cavaliers were still outrebounded, 42-30, yet it was the 16 turnovers created and the Aggies poor shooting (30% from the field and only 17% from behind the three point arc), that was their visitors’ demise.
The first half was a battle of wills and defenses ruled. Virginia took an early lead and stayed ahead until about six minutes were left in the first half. A&M took its first lead at 21-20 on a 3pt make by Hayden Hefner. The lead changed hands a few times until Virginia took the lead for good at the half up 27-26.
The lead would expand as Andrew Rohde (had 8 of team high 13 points after half) helped jumpstart a 14-2 run that created a 41-28 lead with 14:20 left in the second half.
The Aggies would not go away and they methodically whittled the deficit to 41-36 in about five minutes. The 8-0 run started to turn the momentum in favor of the visitors. Virginia answered the challenge with defensive intensity timely scoring.
Virginia made five three-pointers in the second half and were able to pick apart the full court press. The last 10 minutes of the game showed Virginia had learned its lessons from last week and their poise was on display as they committed just 10 turnovers.
Virginia was able to turn back any significant charges made from Texas A&M and the eight blocks signified their dominance in denying easy buckets.
The Hoos finished shooting a respectable 42% from the field and 36% from behind the arc.
The stars:
Coleman lived up to the billing. He scored a game high 16 points and grabbed a game high 14 rebounds. PG Wade Taylor IV the SEC preseason player of the year, was held to a season low nine points. He averaged 20 points a game entering tonight.
For the Cavaliers, Ryan Dunn had 12 points,
5 rebounds, 3 steals and 5 blocks to lead all players. Reece Beekman poured in 12 points, 5 assists (most on the floor),
3 steals and added 2 blocks.
Winning looks good for the Cavs (6-1) who have strung together two in a row and prepare for the first ACC contest when Syracuse visits JPJ on Saturday, Dec. 2nd.
The Aggies (6-2) have played four games in seven days will get a much needed break as they will not play again for a week. They will host the DePaul Blue Demons.
EMSPORTS.org 11/29/2023
The Commonwealth Cup has been in existence for nearly 20 years. It is a competition between the states’ highest profile universities. When it comes to football, this forest rivalry has been going on far longer.
Families, friendships and households have been impacted by this game which Carrie’s more meaning than just a win or a loss. These numbers are part of the narrative. 17 out of the last 18. Zero wins on the road in 25 years and just three wins since 1999. All these numbers favor the coating Virginia Tech Hokies who have dominated since the mid 1990s.
Virginia enters this Senior Day with renewed attitude and a new leader. Coach Elliott is headed into his first Clash of the Commonwealth and he is looking to start a winning tradition.
Coach Pry is also in his first clash and he wants to repeat what the Hokies did two years ago, last time game was played, with a victory on foreign soil.
VT enters the game not only playing for pride but also a chance to go .500 and lock in bowl eligibility. Virginia would like nothing less than to ruin the their SW neighbors’ postseason hopes and finish the season on a two-game winning streak.
The opportunity lay before both teams but only Virginia Tech responded. After a successful opening drive resulting in a field goal, the Hokies turned away the Hoos’s on three plays and proceeded to dismantle and dominate the home teams. VT scored 24 unanswered to go up 24-0 at the half. They extended the lead to 31-0 before Virginia finally scored in the third quarter. That was only cosmetic and the boys from Blacksburg eventually extended the lead to a final score of 55-17.
The Hokies defense recorded six sacks. They also forced two turnovers while only committing one. The Cavaliers could not get any rhythm or slow down VT as the defense allowed 500 total yards and special teams gave up a kick return touchdown as well.
The wins propels Virginia Tech into a postseason consideration to be determined later. The loss places Virginia in the unenviable task of once again trying to get over a losing season and a loss to their bitter rivals.
EMSPORTS.org 11/25/2023
The month of November is special for many. It is the month to celebrate Thanksgiving. It signals the end of another football season and it also recognizes the brave men and women soldiers with Military Appreciation Month.
For Virginia it means only two games left in this tumultuous and trying season. The team has celebrated and honored memory of three football players slain last November 13th. In their last game, RB Perris Jones suffered a season ending injury that required surgery and the team lost another one-possession game to continue their poor fortunes in close games.
Duke entered Charlottesville looking to erase a close loss in OT at the hands of archenemies University of North Carolina. The Blue Devils destroyed Virginia last year but had lost their last five games in Scott Stadium.
Virginia has shown resourcefulness and QB Tony Colandrea was getting better with each start as a first year. Duke came in wounded as well with an injury to starting QB Riley Leonard that paved the way for true freshman, backup Grayson Loftis to lead this team. There are other storylines as well with both Coach Elliott and Coach Elko in their second years and each candidates for the Virginia job before eventually going to Elliott.
With true freshmen leading the way, the battling teams both knew it would need the services of the veterans to gain the advantage. The first half was a true give and take where offense a premium and defenses took the game momentum from one side to the other. Virginia took the lead early but Duke tied it up at 7. As Virginia regained the lead, the Blue Devils did not take long, tying the score at 10 before the halftime horn.
Following the halftime intercession, the Cavaliers played like a brand new team. They never trailed in the game. This was a testament of the spectacular play from Colandrea and the wizardry of WR Malik Washington. Washington has been a phenomenal playmaker for Virginia all year. The transfer from University of Washington is must watch television. He leads the conference in pass catches, yards per game receiving and touchdown receptions. He is also second in the nation among all wideouts in total receptions and total receiving yards. He was as impressive with two touchdowns on 8 receptions for 112 yards, all team highs. Colandrea was efficient and impactful completing 11 of 30 for 278 yards and three TDs.
His counterpart was impressive as well completing 26/45 for 270 yards for two touchdowns but a critical interception. Virginia as they commonly have done took control in the second half. A few more touchdown passes by Colandrea offset a Duke field goal and the Cavaliers owned a 24-13 lead in the fourth quarter. This is where it got interesting. The Blue Devils trailed 30-20 with about five minutes left. A successful drive in under three minutes culminated in a Loftis to Mekhi Wall two-yard TD toss. This brought the score to 30-27 for UVa and the last 2 minutes and 30 seconds seemed like an eternity.
As many Hoo fans know, the Cavaliers have demonstrated a penchant for losing leads in the fourth quarter. However, this was not one of those games. An onside kick by Duke was unsuccessful and finally the faithful fans of Virginia were able to breathe a sigh of relief and see the first ever ACC home win under Coach Elliott. Virginia outgained Duke 448 to 429 in total yardage and won the turnover battle 2 to 0.
Virginia hosts arch rival Virginia Tech to wrestle away the Commonwealth Cup on Senior Day.
EMSPORTS.org 11/18/2023
The Cavaliers showcased all their depth and prowess with an easy win versus NC A&T. The second game in John Paul Jones this week has the Texas Southern Tigers Charlottesville.
The Tigers enter at 0-2 but showed fight and tenacity in a hard fought defeat agains the Arizona St. Sun Devils. They however have not scored more than 55 points on the season.
The Cavaliers have clicked offensively putting up over 77 points a game while the legendary Packline Defense is limiting opponents to less than 54 points a contest.
The Tigers continue their road trip but may be facing their toughest challenge to date with the firepower and defensive force the Cavaliers present.
The Hoos on the other hand will battle without one of their starters as sharpshooter Isaac McKneely sits out with a sprained ankle. The start was slow for both teams as the offenses struggled barely averaging a point a minute through the opening five minutes.
As the half progressed forward, Virginia began to churn out the turnovers from the Texas Southern squad and converted those miscues into points. A quick 10-0 run by Virginia complimented the drought of the Tigers that lasted nearly six minutes.
The stretch allowed Virginia to take a double-digit lead with just under eight minutes left. As for the remainder of the half, Virginia methodically demonstrated their strength and length to disrupt any semblance of good offense.
As much as Virginia dominated multiple categories, they were also lacking in a few areas. Texas Southern shoot poorly but their hustle led to numerous opportunities as they gathered more rebounds than Virginia. Virginia was also provide the Tigers hope with uncharacteristic turnovers and less than stellar free throw shooting.
The halftime score saw Virginia leading 26-14. The defense created seven steals and six blocks while holding the Tigers to 22% shooting from the field. Ryan Dunn led the way with nine points and three rebounds. Virginia was better from the field shooting at 44%, double compared to TX So. The Cavs also held leading scorer PJ Henry to zero points which was nearly 10 points below his season average of 9.5.
The defense carried over into the second half and stifled the Tigers. The Tigers never threatened the Hoos as the lead expanded throughout the half reaching as high as 30, when Virginia doubled up Texas Southern at 60-30.
The Tigers struggled to find any rhythm as Virginia pressed the opponents relentlessly the moment the Tigers crossed half court. The Cavaliers kept their hands busy and made a concentrated effort to remove the advantage that the Tigers had on the boards in the first half.
With a sizeable lead, the Cavaliers played nearly all their scholarship players and 10 of the 11 players logging minutes also scored.
Virginia completed the mission with a 62-33 victory. Ryan Dunn led all scorers with 15 points. The team shot 44% for the game and nearly 32% from behind the 3pt arc. The defense stole the show limiting the Tigers to only 26% from the field and a paltry 18% from behind the 3pt line. They were paced by Henry and Young, both who scored seven points each.
The first time in school history UVA recorded 10 blocks and 10 steals in the same game.
The wins bolsters Virginia to 4-0 while Texas Southern falls to 0-3.
EMSPORTS.org 11/16/23
The Virginia Cavaliers faced their next challenge in the form of the visiting NC A&T Aggies as they returned to the friendly confines of JPJ looking to build on the strong non-conference 2-0 start. The visitors from North Carolina were making their first ever trip to JPJ. This would be the first of a two-game home stand for the Cavaliers.
The Cavaliers defeated the Florida Gators, in a tight, one-possession battle, on a neutral court in Charlotte. The visitors from Greensboro suffered a huge defeat at the hands of a fellow ACC squad, the Pitt Panthers.
Virginia has shown a strong ability to limit opponents’ ability to get to comfortable in the half court while creating multiple turnovers. That was evident in the 15 steals they created against the Gators with Ryan Dunn swiping seven by himself.
The Aggies (0-2) are a small team but very gritty and aggressive. What they lacked inside they made up for in speed and pressure they put on opposing defenses by speeding up the game tempo.
A heavy underdog, the Aggies were looking for a quick start and hoping to grab momentum. It never happened. Virginia grabbed a 2-0 lead early and outside of a tie at 2, the Cavaliers were never threatened on the scoreboard. The buckets flowed endlessly after the the six minute mark as the Cavaliers took over with stingy defense and an array of buckets. When the halftime horn was sounded, the Hoos had built a 49-19 leads. All ten of the Cavs who played scored. The Aggies were looking for answers to the problems presented by the hometown squad.
The second half was more even as the result was not in doubt. There were many different lineups as Coach Bennett and his staff were looking at new ways to employ all the players and best maximize theses combinations for possibilities going forward.
The win puts the Hoos (3-0) in good shape as they prepare for Texas Southern on Thursday. NC A&T (0-3) will look to regroup and build on a strong second half as they prepare for a week layoff before heading to Alabama to face Merrimack.
The final stats all favored the Hoos. The team held the visitors to 32% shooting from the field and barely 25% from behind the three-point arc. In contrast, Virginia shot a blistering 54%
while recording and equally impressive 46% from the 3pt shot.
Reece Beekman paced all players with 7 assist and zero turnovers. The heavy lifting was handled by Leon Bond III with 16 off the bench and Ryan Dunn with 13 boards to go with 11 rebounds. (First career double double). Jacob Groves added 11 from his substitute role.
The Aggies got a game high 18 points from Landon Glasper.
EMSPORTS.org 11/14/2023
A new season and new expectations abound for the 2023-2024 season. The Virginia Cavaliers have a mix of new faces with some experience that makes them intriguing and the fan base excited for the upcoming year.
Coach Bennett leads a band of players with only two starters returning in Issac McNeely and ACC Defensive Player of the Year, Reece Beekman. The team enters November as a prime contender for the ACC title but no national ranking as Bennett enters his 15th season at the helm of the Cavaliers.
The opener begins with Tarleton State from Texas. They are a combination of players with eight returners and 16 transfers that compose this team led by Billy Gillespie, former head man at Texas A&M and Kentucky, during his career.
In the first ever matchup of these two teams, the home crowd was entertained by the Cavaliers who jumped out to a fast lead and never looked back. The Hoos energy was matched by their offensive firepower as both were high in the season opener.
A quick 11-4 run to open the game in a little over two minutes set the tone for the game. Virginia took a double-digit lead with just under 12 minutes to play. The lead never dipped back into single digits. The Cavaliers swelled the lead from 21-11 to 43-19 by halftime. An early season Cavalanche of 22 to 8 was pleasing to the crowd and too much for the visiting Texans to overcome. A combination of Reece Beekman controlling the tempo and high-level shooting by Issac McNeely paced the Hoos in the first half.
The second half was a little less one sided as Tarleton State found more openings in the Cavalier defense and made a slight dent into the lead. A modest 13-3 run gave Tarleton some momentum closed the score to 59-40 with a little over ten minutes remaining.
The Cavs made a few adjustments and then stretched the lead out again. This time Jacob Groves and Ryan Sunn sparked the offensive onslaught as Virginia finished the game with a 21-10 finish.
The 80-50 victory has given the Cavaliers another season opening win which is their 24th in the last 26 seasons.
Virginia shot an impressive 49% from the field and 45% from behind the three-point line.
Beekman led 10 players from UVA with 16 points followed by 15 from McNeely and 12 scored by Leon Dunn III in his college debut.
Dunn also collected nine rebounds to lead all players. The Texans were led by Devon Barnes and Izzy Miles who scored 11 and 10 respectively. Tarleton State shot only 33% with a paltry 23% beyond the three-point arc.
Virginia starts the season at 1-0 while Tarleton State begins the season at 0-1.
EMSPORTS.org. 11/6/2023
The University of Virginia knows they have an uphill climb if they have postseason bowl aspirations. The Cavaliers hosted the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on the first Saturday in November. The game also highlighted Parents’ Weekend.
These two teams look to be going in different directions however the records may be misleading. Virginia began the season at 0-5 and have made strides in their last three games. The 2-6 Cavs have won two of their last three including a huge win on the road at the previously #10th ranked North Carolina Tar Heels. The Yellow Jackets have made some strides as well and they have won two exiting games including beating those same Tar Heels in their last matchup.
This game marks the first of three that Virginia will have at home in November. The Yellow Jackets were the first victory for Tony Elliott in the ACC. The Cavaliers have not yet won a home game in the ACC under Elliott.
Georgia Tech is also looking at getting closer to become bowl eligible in the second season under Coach Watts Key. The coach took over during last year and has shown steady improvement since becoming the head coach. UVA holds the all-time series edge, but only slightly. The Cavaliers are 22-21 all-time against Georgia Tech, are on a three-game winning streak against the Yellow Jackets, and have won five of the past seven. The former ACC Coastal rivals have played a lot of close games over the years. This one did not live up to that billing.
The Hoos started fast with a drive into Ga Tech territory. The drive stalled when Tony Muskett threw a pass the Malachi Fields who lost the struggle on a 50/50 ball as Tech’s Ahmari Harvey stole the ball and earned an interception.
Virginia’s defense answered with a three and out and the offense capitalized with a scoring drive as Tony Colandrea (filling in for injured Muskett) hit TE Josh Rawlings with a TD pass.
GA Tech answered back as they marched for the field and settled for an Aiden Birr field goal to cut the lead to 7-3.
The Yellow Jackets opened the second quarter with a long, time-consuming drive. The 16 plays covers 69 yards resulting in QB Haynes King’s two-yard run to put the visitors up 10-7 with under nine minutes left in the second quarter.
The momentum continued as the Yellow Jackets recovered a fumble from Colandrea. After trading punts, the visitors found the endzone again on the strength of the legs and arms of Haynes King. The QB from Ga Tech was able to mix the pass and run and capped it off with a 38 yard scamper to the endzone with just over two minutes to play in the half.
Georgia Tech was not finished as they tacked in another rushing TD as Dontae Smith went 33 yards off tackle and boosted the lead to 24-7 with just under 30 seconds left in the half.
The second quarter saw GA Tech score 21 points that was part of the 24 consecutive point run in the first half.
The Cavaliers were able to get back with a drive to end the half that produced three points. A field goal of 39 yards from Will Bettridge gave the home team some momentum and reduced the lead to 14, at 24-10 in favor of Georgia Tech.
The Yellow Jackets took little time to get back in the scoring column. A 75-yard scoring drive was punctuated by a Haynes King to Eric Singleton 58-yard pitch and catch led to a 31-10 advantage.
The fourth quarter saw GT continue to dominate in the ground and move the ball at will. The Cavaliers couldn’t convert on fourth down give the Yellow Jackets the ball. The ensuing drive was a variety of ground and pound and an occasional pass to keep the defense off balance. Following a targeting penalty, GT powered into the endzone on a Dontae Smithruah of 10 yards. His second score of the day provide even more of a cushion as GT went up 38-10.
The teams traded touchdowns on the next two possessions. Virginia stuck first with a short redzone touchdown pass from Colandrea to Koby Pace out of the backfield for eight yards. GT answered with a quick two play drive when Jamal Hayes went untouched for 43 yards to the house with a running touchdown. The Hoos attempted one last drive but it was foiled when Colandrea’s pass to the endzone was picked off by GT’s KJ Wallace.
The final score showed 45-17 in favor of GT. The Yellow Jackets outgained the Cavs, 504 yards to 351. The visitors from Atlanta grounded out 305 yards in the rush game alone. The win improves them to 5-4 on the season while the Cavaliers fall to 2-7.
EMSPORTS.org 11/4/23
The Virginia Cavaliers are hungry for a win. The Wahoo faithful has endured a long season, but the calendar change may just what the team and its fans need.The first Saturday in October brings renewed energy and an home date with William and Mary. The Tribe are the annual Homecoming's opponent for this year's game and they are no slouch.
The former Virginia football coach, Mike London, brings a team with experience and a strong 4-1 record into the matchup. The Cavaliers after another disappointing loss in heartbreaking fashion, knew how big this win is mentally as well as for the desire to get the first win of the season.
The game did not begin well for the Cavaliers as William and Mary scored first with a field goal. Virginia tied the game on their second drive with a field goal but then the Tribe took momentum with 10 straight points. The Trube was aided by. Tony Muskett fumble. The Tribe capitalized with a TD to take a 13-3 lead on a Martin Lucas one yard dive. The score looked like was another long day for UVa.The offense took notice and the home team showed grit and resilience as they clawed back into the game and took control with 17 unanswered points giving them Hoos a 20-17 halftime lead.
The charge was led by Muskett who atoned for his mistake earlier with a TD run. Virginia then got the ball back and a field goal tied it at 13. Virginia was not done and Muskett was effective with his arm. This time he led a drive that culminated in a pitch and catch with Malachi Fields of 26 yards.The teams struggled with points after halftime as the defense took over and the run heavy Tribe could not find their rhythm as Virginia continued to dominate the line of scrimmage.
When it looked as if Virginia had put the game out of reach, a touchdown pass was called back. The Tribe found new life and intercepted Muskett on the next play to neutralize the Cavaliers' threat.Virginia did not let up and finally rewarded the defense with a time-consuming, field churning 90 yard drive that took over seven minutes in the clock.
Most importantly, the Cavaliers found paydirt when Muskett hit his favorite target, Malik Washington with a 27 yard strike to boost the lead to 27-13 and close out William and Mary.The Cavaliers played complimentary football and the stats showed it. Offensively, Virginia had balance as both the ground and the air gained over 200 yards each (221 rushing, 232 passing).
The defense held firm only allowing the Tribe a grand total of 219 yards, with only 72 by the pass.Muskett was an efficient passer at 17/26 with a fumble and a pick but two touchdown throws.
The running game was spearheaded by Perris Jones who collected 134 yards on just 12 carries.William and Mary's QB Darius Wilson did all he could rushing for 74 yards and passing for 72 with only four incompletions. However, he got very little help and the team was guilty on one lost fumble.
The win gives Virginia (1-5) a feeling of resurgence as they enter the bye week before finishing the season with six consecutive ACC contests. William and Mary (4-2) will regroup and look to get back to the FCS playoffs as they enter the CAA portion of the schedule.
EMSPORTS 10/07/2023
EM-SPORTS 10/5/23 Liberty wasted no time getting on the scoreboard The Flames scored on their opening drive of the game. Quarterback Salter for Liberty with a 10-yard touchdown to put
Liberty up 7-0 in the first quarter. Sam Houston answered right back with a seven-yard touchdown pass from Keegan Shemaker to Al'Vonte Woodard. Salter was intercepted Flames
kept Sam Houston out of the endzone. Salter threw a 51-yard pass to Daniels for a touchdown before halftime.
Liberty finished the night out gaining Sam Houston, 448 to 327 yards. Liberty redshirt sophomore also ran for another score while carrying the ball 12 times for 38 yards. a Wake Forest transfer.
9/15/23
EM-SPORTS.ORG
Patrick Henry did not waste any time getting on the scoreboard with Chuck Webb scoring on an
1-yard TD. EC Glass came right back to score with Marty Kittrell throwing a 50-yard pass
to Jertavius Osbourne for the tying TD. Patrick Henry Quarterback, Joey Beasley, answered with his pass that hit Kwalei Carter for a 65-yard TD. Chuck Webb then added to the team's total as he
contributed with two touchdowns 1-yard TD run and 31-yard TD pass.
Both teams could not stop each other on defense. In this offensively charged game the difference was EC Glass had a lot of penalties and saw two touchdowns called back.
The game was played at Lynchburg city Stadium
Game Stats:
Rushing
Patrick Henry: Chuck Webb 27-125,
EC Glass: Mike Thomas 11-58.
Passing
Patrick Henry: Joey Beasley, 15-15 for 247 yards,
E.C.Glass: Marty Kittrell, 11-18 for 199 yards.
EM-SPORTS.ORG 8/31/23
8/25/23 Jamar Lovelace's first victory against Lord Botetourt it was Lovelace's first as head
Coach at E. C. GLASS. the first quarter was a defensive game. midway through the second quarter. Kittrell ran out of the pocket and unloaded a 46-yard pass to receiver Jertavins Osborne, who caught the ball over a defender's shoulder and then got down to the Botetourt 15-yard line.
Mike Thomas took in for a 10-yard TD. put Glass 7-0. Glass quarterback Kittrell ran a 38-yarder
TD with 6:44 remaining in the third quarter to put Glass up 14-0 EM-SPORTS
The distance from EC Glass to the University of Lynchburg is approximately one mile.
It may seem even further when you think about what use to be and what is now.
That is no longer the case for one of the most popular people to step in McCue Gym at EC Glass.
Anitra Thomas is coming home, we’ll sort of. Coach Thomas who had an amazing run as the Lady Hilltoppers Head Coach for the girls’ team is back after a short stop in college.
Thomas parlayed her high school success into an assistant coach position with the Lady Hornets basketball squad. Her time there was short but extremely effective and beneficial. The short trip up Lakeside Drive to Memorial Avenue, was worth more than words in the experience and invaluable tools she gained to bring back to the high school ranks.
Her transition will feel as if she never left and in reality, she will be able to make the move thanks to the wonderful job done over the last couple years by Cedric Jones, who will return to his post as the top assistant for Coach Thomas.
Thomas, a Brookville grad who once held that program’s career scoring record, previously was head coach at Glass in the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons. She was an assistant for one year before taking the top job.
Glass went 22-5 in 2019-20 under Thomas — who earned Seminole District and Region 4D coach of the year honors that season. It posted just two regular-season losses and marked just the second time the Hilltoppers had made it to the state tournament in program history. She led the team into the State 4A Quarterfinals before the season ended.
The ’Toppers were 8-0 the following season, in a campaign shortened by the pandemic and eventually cut off because of COVID-19 protocols. They were slated to enter the region tournament as the No. 2 seed that year.
Those two seasons were the second and third of three consecutive winning seasons with Thomas on staff (the first came during her year as an assistant), which followed a string of seven straight losing campaigns. Jones led Glass back to states in 2021-22 and to a 22-5 record, and another visit to the State 4A Quarterfinals, but the Hilltoppers went 12-11 in the following season.
EMSPORTS 8/25/2023
In their first-ever DIII baseball championship appearance, the Lynchburg Hornets claim the national title over the Johns Hopkins Blue Jays, 7-6.
Lynchburg won Game 1 with a 5-2 berth before falling to Johns Hopkins 11-6 in Game 2 earlier today. In a double-header winner-take-all comeback, the Hornets scored their winning runs in the fifth inning off the bat of Jackson Harding — a 3-RBI double for the lead that Johns Hopkins did not recover from.
- contributed by NCAA.com
LYNCHBURG, Va. (WDBJ) - For the first time ever, the Lynchburg Hornets are National Champions.
After taking game one of the three game series over Johns Hopkins 5-2, Blue Jays dominated game two of the series 11 to 6.
Hornets pitcher Jack Bachmore would be on the bump for the deciding game in what would only be his second start. He would give up 4 runs in the first inning alone but would be picked up by a Gavin Collins 2RBI single in the bottom half of the inning, and a two-run bomb from Benton Jones in the bottom of the second to erase the deficit.
Trailing by one in the bottom of the fifth, a Jackson Harding double scored three runs that put the Hornets in the lead for good.
Wesley Arrington entered the game for Lynchburg in the eighth inning and would record the final out of the game on a strikeout.
Lynchburg secures its first-ever program title with a 7-6 win over Johns Hopkins.
Copyright 2023 WDBJ. All rights reserved.
The Lynchburg Hornets were very successful and accomplished many goals with a national title. The Hornets entered the Division III tournament at 43 wins, the most in school history. They had advanced past a regional and made it into the Final 8 (all program firsts).
They went undefeated (3-0) and entered the championship series two wins away from the ultimate title. The title was the fourth national title in the university's history and the first by a men's program. Coach Lucas Jones, an alum and former player, captured his first title ever in his six-year reign as the coach at his alma mater.
The Hornets finished the season at 48-8 and will now look to defend their title as well as market their brand and the name of the ODAC for the national to recognize and appreciate.
EMSPORTS. org 6/14/2023
The EC Glass Hilltoppers have one more box the check off for the 2022-2023 season. Every team wants to be the champ but you have to get to the game, to win the game.
Glass (25-2) has been sensational in postseason play winning eight games to reach the state title game. All the wins have been by double digits but they have not all been easy.
In some games the offense took over early amen the team crushed their opponent. In other games, the offense was slow starting, but the smothering and in your face defense, created havoc and limited the opponents. Glass is averaging nearly 68 points a game while holding their opponents to less than 45 points per game in these playoffs.
The team in being led by the great play of senior guard O’Maundre Harris. The runaway Seminole Region 4D Player of the Year has been nothing short of amazing. Harris has raised his scoring average from 26 points a game to over 30 points a game in the playoff run. His versatility and natural scoring ability has carried the Hilltoppers in tight situations and spearheaded their 16-game winning streak.
The Varina Blue Devils (22-4) are no pushover or surprise team. The Region 4B champs have also shown the ability to score when needed (over 70 ppg) or locked down on defense where they held King’s Fork to 34 points in the state semifinals. Varina is sporting an impressive 14-game winning streak and will get the benefit of being the local team as they are less than 25 minutes away from VCU, the site of the VHSL Class 4 Championship.
Both teams were excellent in offense scoring a nearly identical 66 points per contest during the regular season. This was an indication of how close these two teams were on paper. It was even more evident that the title game was a grind and the best defense on the court would make all the difference.
The teams slugged in out in the first period and neither team could take a big lead. It was a push and pull that resembled a tug of war where Varina would pull ahead only to have Glass pull even or vice versa. The end of the 1st quarter saw both teams knotted up at 12 apiece and this was just the beginning of a classic.
The second quarter was a copy of the first as both defenses dominated and points were few and far between each team. Glass took a 13-12 lead with a free throw but it was short lived as Varina took the lead back. The back and forth action continued with lots of energy and hype but not as many points. The game was tied at 22 with just under two minutes to play. The momentum was square in the middle until the Blue Devils were able to push ahead with four more points before the halftime horn. The Hilltoppers spoiled several chances to tie or take the lead and saw themselves losing at halftime for the first time in the playoffs at 26-22. O'maundre Harris, the highlight reel point guard from EC Glass, had display his wizardry on the court as he led all scorers with 13 points. Varina, by contrast, was able to spread the scoring burden with five players contributing at least four points each with no player having more than seven.
The anticipation of a championship title fight was as big as the performance on the court. With every move, shot, dribble or pass, the fans seemed to be pouring all their voices onto the court encouraging each player and each play. The stands and rafters were shaking in unison as Varina started to surge ahead in the third quarter. Varina was able to create some space and breathing room by taking a 35-26 lead in the first three minutes of the third quarter. EC Glass who had usually played from ahead, would not go away quietly. While Harris was not able to score as easily as before, he was setting his teammates up and Camp Conner drained a three-pointer to bring the Glass faithful off their feet and close the score to 39-35. By the time, the third quarter ended, Varina was clinging to a 45-40 lead but Glass was not done.
The last quarter of the year hanged in the balance and the Blue Devils were leading but it was not a comforable margin. Glass was essentially playing in an hostile environment and they knew it was time to put their best on display to claim the state crown.
The fourth quarter saw EC Glass apply enormous pressure and it began to wilt the Varina offense. With less than a minute in regulation, the score was tied at 55. With under 25 seconds, Glass had taken a lead at 56-55 and needed one stop to secure the victory. The Hilltoppers could sense the end was near and they were closing in on a state title. The Varina Blue Devils had seen a five point lead disappear and they needed to make a play.
They turned to KJ Wyche, the Region 4B Player of the Year, who had made plays all year. The jjunior guard, was the only returning starter for this Varina team who cut down the nets last year in this building. He was looking to redeem his earlier free throw misses. Wyche delivered with a bucket off the glass to give his team a 57-56 lead with nearly 13 seconds left. Now the tables had turned and Varina needed a stop to walk away as champs. Glass had on more opportunity but missed a jump shot to win it and the subsequent foul gave Varina two free throws to ice the game. When the final horn sounded, the teams had given every ounce of effort and sweat was clenched to their bodies, the Varina Blue Devils (23-4) walked away as the new VHSL 4A Champions. EC Glass (25-3) for all their valor and might, were not able to get that last stop or that game-winning basket and saw their dream season end in the state title game.
Varina was tall and physical and it showed as they collected 40 rebounds to the 25 from Glass. The Blue Devils also received contributions from a host of players. Junior Malachi Cosby had a double-double effort with a team high 15 points and 11 rebounds. Wyche contributed 14 while Jerome Conway scored 10 points, Myles Derricott had 8 points and Dominique Coleman provided a spark with 7 key points off the bench, all after halftime.
For EC Glass, it was a tremendous end to the career for O'maundre Harris. The electrifying guard kept the fans on their feet and the Varina defense on their heels. Harris was nearly unstoppable as he carried the majority of the scoring for Glass. As he had done all year, he lifted his scoring output with another 30-point game (31) making 11 of his 21 shots. He was supported by Connor Camp who had 7 and Aiden Treacy with 6 points. As both teams were able to get it going in the second half, Glass finished at ~46% from the field for the game while Varina converted ~40% of their shots.
Congratulations to both teams but most importantly, congrats to the EC Glass Hilltoppers who took their fans, the City of Lynchburg and many basketball spectators on a fantastic journey from the Hill City to the Capital City in this 2022-2023 basketball season. This is the best team that EC Glass has put on the court since the last championship team of 1967.
EMSPORTS.org 3/9/2023
The high school playoffs are entering the last two rounds with a couple of boys’ teams from Central Virginia still in the hunt.
ALTAVISTA COLONELS:
In Class 1 semi-finals, the Altavista Colonels are looking to make it back to the state title game for the second time in three years. A proud program with many titles to their trophy case, the Colonels blew by the Middlesex Chargers and will faces the biggest challenger of the year when the undefeated Lancaster Red Devils (27-0) who have played phenomenal all year. The winner can make reservations for a state title tilt on Saturday, Mar. 11.
The dream season came to an abrupt end. The Colonels were bested by the undefeated Red Devils who were too big and too quick for Altavista. The Colonels could never get comfortable and they were always playing catch up from the beginning. Lancaster get off to a great start and cruise into the half with a 37-22 lead.
Altavista attempted to close the gap but as was the case in the first two quarters, Lancaster showed no weaknesses. The lead was extended to 18 when the quarter ended at 52-34. Lancaster proved to be all that they were advertised and the winning streak extends to 28 games. The final score was confirmation that Altavista was willing but Lancaster was ready for the assignment. The final score was 69-40.
The Colonels were led by Jayden Boyd who poured in 14 points and Stuart Hunt who contributed 13 points. ALTAVISTA finished the season at 21-5.
EC GLASS HILLTOPPERS:
About 25 minutes up 29 north, the EC Glass Hilltoppers can claim multiple VHSL state titles but it has been nearly 70 years since they last hoisted the winners’ trophy. This Glass team has knocked in the door but have not punched through in recent history. That can all change if the Hilltoppers can protect home court (actually Heritage High School) but must get past a stout Tuscarora Huskies who feel confident and are capable of turning in a victory for a trip to VCU on Wednesday.
EC Glass (25-2) seemed to follow the similar scripts as they had the last few games. They started slow and seemed to work and grind in the first half. The Huskies did all they could to keep Glass within striking distance and trailed 30-27 at halftime. As they had shown, the Hilltoppers were a team of adjustments and the second half Tuscarora was overwhelmed by the pressure and speed of EC Glass. Tuscarora had the size and length but they could not stop the Big Blue train from running downhill.
The Hilltoppers scored 43 points in the second half, increasing their total with each quarter. At the end of the third quarter, Glass led 48-39 but save their best for last with a 25-point last stanza. The offense was great but the defense even better as Tuscarora (24-5) was held to nearly 10 points under their season average of 58ppg. The Hilltoppers’ win stamped their ticket to VCU to compete for the Class 4 VHSL State Championship. The 73-49 victory was an emphatic statement that the boys from midtown were ready to finish the dream and it was one step away. The Hilltoppers will face Varina High School riding a 16-game winning streak into the title game.
There were many stars but these two stood out as O'Maundre Harris, Region 4 Player of the Year and EMSPORTS Basketball Player of the Year scored a game high 34 points, 11 rebounds. His teammate Jason Knox added 15 points. Those two alone scored as many as the Huskies did.
EMSPORTS.org 3/06/2023
High basketball enters the championship rounds this week as each of the six VHSL Divisions prepare for state tournaments. The team that wins the ultimate prize must win three more games in this gauntlet of competition.
ALTAVISTA COLONELS:
In Class 1, the Altavista Colonels have enjoyed great success with a 20-4 record on the season. They had completed an undefeated season in the Dogwood District and had a six game winning streak working. The Colonels may be from a small town but they boast some of the biggest and most successful basketball history in Central Virginia. They have braved some hostile environments with none being any more challenging than at Franklin High School in Suffolk. The Colonels overcame a big deficit to win an exciting regional final and earn a home state quarterfinal game at nearby Heritage High School in Lynchburg.
Their opponent, the Middlesex Chargers, were also undefeated in their district play and were the winners of 19 consecutive games until they lost in the regional finals to Lancaster. Lancaster was responsible for all three Middlesex losses in their 23-3 campaign. The Chargers are not overlooking the Colonels but certainly eye the possibility of avenging their losses of both they and Lancaster advance to the state semi-final round.
The end came sooner than Middlesex would have wanted. Altavista used their superior quickness and speed to simply outrun their visitors from up North. The Colonels could seemingly do know wrong and breezed into the Class 1 semifinals with an impressive offensive display. The final score of 78-57 seemed like more as Altavista moved with precision and scored with ease. Altavista will now look to stamp their ticket into the Class 1 state finals by defeating a formidable foe in the Lancaster Red Devils who are undefeated this year at 27-0. This game will be held at Heritage High School.
EC GLASS HILLTOPPERS:
The EC Glass Hilltoppers were having a dream season. They knew how close they had been in the past and were eager to get the elusive state crown. A team with 23 wins in 25 games, that had dominated teams all year, Glass was pushed by Western Albemarle in their regional final but found enough offense and utilized their defensive prowess to gain the victory and earn a state quarterfinal home
contest against the Handley Judges. The Judges were 15-11 but had played strong towards the end of the season and have peaked in the last couple of weeks.
The game was tight throughout and just as Glass had done in the regional finals, they built up momentum and a lead going into the half ahead of Handley, 31-25.
Coming out of the locker rooms, both teams commenced to become more active and a great give and take took place. When the Judges scored, the Hilltoppers answered. If Glass looked to run away, Handley stayed in close in their rear view not giving up an inch. The excitement from the prolific offenses, was matched by the energy in the building as both teams scored in double digits as the game entered the fourth quarter. Glass held a lead of 49-40 but Handley was not discouraged.
In the fourth quarter, the homestanding Hilltoppers found another gear. The Handley Judges were not able to ride the momentum from the third quarter nor take advantage of the mistakes made by Glass. Glass showed why they looked to be a favorite for the title and pushed the lead into double digits. As if a repeat of last week was taking place, Glass got stronger as the game move along. In the end, Glass had their best quarter scoring 19 points to finish off Handley 68-54. O'maundre Harris led all scorers with 32 points. Handley was valiant but could not keep up with the hot shooting Hilltoppers and their season comes to an end at 14-12. The Hilltoppers will continue the march in the tournament and improve to 24-2 with an active 15-game winning streak. The Tuscarora Huskies now stand in the way of Glass getting to the final game in Class 4. The Huskies are 24-4 on the season and look to extend their three game winning streak at the state semi-final battle. This game will be held at Heritage High School.
EMSPORTS.org 3/3/2023
It is a Friday night in February. If you are looking for drama, excitement, and entertainment then the place to be is at a basketball gym.
The EC Glass Hilltoppers were hosting another Region 4D Finals as the top seed in the region. They were on the wave of a 13-game winning streak and already punched a ticket to the VHSL 4A state finals. They hosted the second-seeded Western Albemarle Warriors were not strangers to playoff success and boasted a seven-game winning streak as they visited McCue Gymnasium in Lynchburg.
Both teams were known for their high-powered offenses and winning by large margins throughout the year. This battle was shaping up as a classic back-and-forth with each possession being important. The defenses were not expected to be the calling card for victory.
The game began with a lot of energy but not much in the way of buckets. Each team searched for the right combination of passes and shooting but it produced little in the first quarter as the game was tied at 8 apiece.
The second quarter was more offensive efficiency and fewer defensive stops. The Hilltoppers used some of their ultra quickness and deft passing to find holes in Western’s defense and grab a 23-15 lead at halftime.
It seems when the teams returned from the halftime break that more offense would be on display. Each team still struggled with shooting however Glass’ was starting to wear the Warriors down and by the end of the third quarter, the home team expanded their lead to 37-27 heading into a make-or-break fourth quarter.
Western Albemarle made every effort to get back into the game but EC Glass had a counter for each move. In the end, Glass was able to stave off the Warriors’ best attempts and claimed the crown as Region 4D champs. The win guarantees Glass another home game in the state quarterfinals as they await the loser of the Region C Championship. Western will be on the road again as they travel to the winner of that same Region C contest looking to possibly regain another chance against Glass if both win in their next games.
Glass improves to 23-2 on the year and Western now stands at 23-4.
O’maundre Harris pumped in a game-high 22 points to lead the Hilltoppers. The Warriors got 11 points each from Aidan Sims and Wes Gobole.
EMSPORTS.org 2/24/2023
EC Glass has performed extremely well this season. In another exceptional campaign, the Hilltoppers were perfect (14-0) in the Seminole District capturing another district crown. The Hilltoppers have been rarely tested and their only two losses occurred early in the year. The Hilltoppers are on a current 12-game winning streak and look to be favorites for the Region 4D crown as well as looking to grab a title at the VHSL 4A State Tournament in a couple of weeks.
The Hilltoppers had no problem handling Mecklenburg County to advance to the regional semifinals at home in McCue Gymnasium. The boys, from midtown, are undefeated at home this year and looking to return to the state tournament after a close defeat in last year’s quarterfinals at the hands of Loudoun County.
The GW- Danville Eagles are very familiar with their regional foe. The Eagles seeded 4th in Region D defeated 5th seeded Amherst County to win a trip up 29 North looking for an upset. The Eagles and Hilltoppers are not strangers to one another in this setting and have had classic battles in the past. The Eagles advanced to this round last year as well and are looking to improve and advance to the state tournament as well.
The high scoring Hilltopper offense was going to be a test for the Eagles. In the first quarter, both teams played with some nervous and high energy but not very efficient. The teams traded baskets as they tried to establish their gameplan. Glass was able to take a small lead at 13-10 at the end of the first quarter.
The teams found a little more rhythm in the second half, but Glass’ pace started to take over and they began to take control of the contest. The Hilltoppers doubled their output from the 1st quarter and increase the point total to 27. In the meantime, GW started to turn the ball over and the deficit became bigger as the game moved to halftime. With only 18 points, the Eagles were slowly becoming a one-man show. Senior guard, Casyn Lewis, carried his team into the locker room with 12 points. O’maundre Harris, the prolific scoring guard for EC Glass, was nearly at his average of 25 points per game in first 16 minutes, as he pumped in 18 points alone to match the grand total for GW Danville.
The Hilltoppers showed they were able to play defense as well as offense. They suffocated the Eagles, creating turnovers, tough shots and clearing the rebounds limiting the visitors to only 25 points in the second half.
Glass pulled away late and secured a 57-43 victory. The win is EC Glass’ 13th in a row and secures them another home game in the regional championship on Friday. The other bonus of the win is they punch their ticket to the next level by earning one of the coveted spots in the VHSL 4A state tourney just as they did one year ago. GW (18-10) finishes just one step from seeing the state tourney for another year again. Glass (22-2) will host the #2 seed, Western Albemarle, on Friday. Both teams advance to the state tournament.
EMSPORTS.org 2/21/2023
iIf you are a fan of basketball, you know that Virginia vs Duke has been must see TV for nearly 10 years. The decade has brought close games, fantastic finishes and memorable moments. This game was no different.
The 8th-ranked Cavaliers had flexed their muscle with an impressive defensive showing beating the 22nd-ranked NC State Wolfpack by a score of 63-50 in their last game. This time Duke, another North Carolina resident, made the trip north to JPJ. In the first time since 1996, a Blue Devil basketball team came in unranked.
The Cavaliers knew a win kept them in the top position of the ACC race and it also kept their impressive home record intact. The Cavaliers had only lost to Houston at John Paul Jones Arena and this would be even more valuable as the backend of conference games were in full swing.
Virginia started off making their first four field goal attempts but senior guard Jeremy Roach for Duke was an one-man wrecking ball as he scored 12 of the Blue Devils' first 14 points. His sharpshooting staked the visitors to and early lead that ballooned to 20-13 in the first half. From their Virginia slowly pulled back in it and a Reece Beekman dunk from an assist of Kihei Clark ended the first half with Virginia trailing 27-25.
The second half saw Virginia still scoring and they parlayed the first half 4-0 into another 4-0 run to take a 29-27 lead. This did not last long as Duke's Jacob Grandison nailed a three-pointer to retake the lead at 30-29. This started a back and forth affair where neither team could gain more than a five point lead throughout the half.
Virginia seemed to be in control with about 90 seconds to play and a 58-53 lead. However, Duke was capable and ready and finished strong with 5 straight points and nearly won the game before overtime.
In overtime, Virginia was able to make enough shots and their standard defense was stellar. The Cavaliers created 22 Duke turnovers that led to 20 points. They were also very aggressive scoring 42 points in the paint to make up for an abysmal shooting of 4-14 from the 3pt range and 9 of 22 from the free throw line. They did excel by shooting nearly 51% from the field for the game.
Duke was so close but didn't have enough to finish as they were outscored 11-4 in the overtime. The Blue Devils dominated with 39 rebounds to UVa's 24 as well as making 9/23 from behind the 3pt arc. They were also a solid 75% (9-12) at the free throw line.
Four Blue Devils scored in double figures with Roach (16 points), Tyrese Proctor (14 points). Grandison with 11 pionts and Dariq Whitehead with 10.
The Cavs got a game high 23 points from Armaan Franklin, 16 points from Kihei Clark and 213 points from Ben Vander Plas. The win makes Virginia 19-4 overall and 11-3 in ACC. Duke drops to 17-8 (8-6 ACC).
EMSPORTS.org 2/11/2023
After a week off following a big road win at Wake Forest, Virginia returned to the friendly confines of JPJ and entertained the Boston College Eagles. BC was a tougher opponent than the 10-11 record suggested and on the horizon for the Cavaliers awaited a trip to Syracuse.
In many peoples’ mind, this is a trap game but the Cavs did not fall for the bait. Instead, Virginia made a statement as they produced their sixth consecutive win.
The scrappy Eagles were not going to lay down and not battle. The combatants traded the lead for the first ten minutes of the game with BC taking the largest of the leads at four (21-17) before Virginia went on a 18-6 run that gave them a 35-27 lead into halftime.
In the second halftime, Virginia started as they left off with more hot shooting and limiting the looks from the Eagles. The Cavaliers pushed the lead to 46-31 before Boston College was able to gain a little momentum and cut into the lead. Boston College made a move and the game was 52-43 and the crowd was hoping not to see another Virginia lead wasted.
The Hoos heard the murmurs and responded to the challenge. The Cavaliers were able to reload and came out with a Cavalanche as they pushed the lead to 27 (76-49) on the strength of a 24-6 run. With about 3:30 minutes left, Virginia had dominated the game and were looking to kill the clock and complete the victory.
The combination of Jaylen Gardner and Armaan Franklin was efficient and overwhelmed the Eagles. Each Hoo recorded 18 points while Franklin recorded a team high seven rebounds. The other two Cavs in double digits were Issac McKneely at 12 and Reece Beekman with 11. For BC, Quintin Post was one of two Eagles to hit double figures. He had a game high of 24 points with six rebounds. Makai Ashton-Langford provided 12 points.
But the teams were excellent from the free throw line as BC missed just one attempt going 12 of 13 and Virginia was perfect at 10-10. The three point shooting was identical as both teams struggle at just under 29%. Virginia was much better from the field as they shot over 50% while BC was only successful at 41%. The Cavaliers will take their game on the road to Syracuse on Monday and now stand at 8-2 in ACC with 16-3 overall. BC (4-7 in ACC, overall 10-12) will return home to face the ACC leading Clemson Tigers on Tuesday.
EMSPORTS.org 1/28/2023
In a battle of two Seminole District heavyweights, the Jefferson Forest Cavaliers traveled into the city of Lynchburg to square off with the Lynchburg Christian Academy Bulldogs. Each team was preparing for the home stretch as January Basketball continues to separate contenders and pretenders.
The Cavaliers were in the midst of a seven-game winning streak and sat one game behind EC Glass Hilltoppers for the top of the Seminole. The Bulldogs, on a current two-game streak, were just a game behind as they chased JF in the standings.
Jefferson Forest owned the first quarter with rebounding and inside scoring to take a 17-11 lead at the end of the first quarter.
As we each passing quarter, the Cavaliers hit double digits on offense and the defense created heavy pressure resulting in LCA’s poor shooting and miscues.
The score was JF 31 - LCA 22. The most productive quarter for LCA was the third. They scored 16 points. It JF was better pouring in 22 points. The game’s score going into the fourth quarter was JF-53 and LCA-38.
The Cavaliers continued to flex their muscle and led from start to finish as they pulled away for a 67-44 victory.
JF point guard Isaiah Scott led all scorers with 21 points after hitting a game-high 7 three-pointers.
Jefferson Forest will continue to ride this winning wave as they prepare for a showdown of Seminole supremacy when they host the first place Hilltoppers. LCA looks to regroup and start a new streak when they face another Lynchburg resident, the Heritage Pioneers.
It is Friday night in January. It is cold outside but that will not stop basketball.
The Hill City was preparing for the first edition of the Hill City Throwdown and Heritage vs EC Glass was ready to make moves up the Seminole District Leaderboard.
This annual event generally brings out the best on the court and fans in the city. The EC Glass Hilltoppers are undefeated in the district (6-0) and have only lost twice all year. The Hilltoppers lead with a frenetic pace and the all-out fullcourt pressure has been known to make teams wilt.
The Pioneers are no strangers to the playing lockdown defense and have turned their early season woes around riding a four game winning streak and stand 4-2 in the district.
Glass plays host in the first matchup as the Pioneers make the short trip, about 3 miles, to midtown for a chance to claim bragging rights and continue their winning ways.
Glass came out the gates smoking and they never let up. A packed house in Glass’ McCue Gym saw the home team
In white race out to a 23-10 lead with transition buckets and three point accuracy.
At the end of the 1st quarter, the Pioneers were already digging out a big hole.
Heritage attempted to make a game in the second quarter but they hardly slowed down the Hilltoppers. The Pioneers scored more but the lead got bigger and Glass cruised into halftime with a big lead.
At half, the score was Glass 42, Heritage 25. The leading scorers for each team were:
ECG - Dexter Harris 13 points, Jason Knox 11 points
HHS - Terrell Washington 13 points
Terrell Washington from Heritage led all scores with 28. Glass shared the wealth with multiple players in double figures.
10 Heritage turnovers were part of a bigger problem as the Hilltoppers shot well over 50%.
O'Maundre Harris led his team with 26 points and poured on 19 in the second half.
The reigning Seminole District and Region 4D player of the year made his team better early and then put the finishing touches on the victory late.
Heritage only committed two turnovers after halftime but the damage was already done. Washington was the highest scorer with 28 points. He connected on 8 of his 12 attempts from the field and also hit 11 of his 14 free-throw attempts. His teammate, sophomore guard, Tavion Clark added 17 points and his 4 of 6 3-point attempts.
Heritage falls to 6-6 and 4-3 in district. The Hilltoppers improve to 12-2 and stay undefeated at 7-0 in the Seminole District.
EMSPORTS.org 1/21/2023
1/4/23 O' Maundre Harris lead Glass to Victory with 30 points night at EC Glass Gymnasia.
Harris made 3-three points beginning of the game. Franklin County too early led 21-10
in the first quarter. Harris made a three-point to cut the lead to 8 points with 3 minutes to
go in the quarter. Harris and Jason Knox got hot to put Glass in lead 34-28 before halftime.
Harris and Knox combined for 49 points. Hilltoppers out score Franklin County in all
three quarters to win 70-59. top score for Glass Q' Maundre Harris with 30 points
his teammate Jason Knox with 19 points . Glass used Full- Court Man to-Man pressure
Defense. Franklin County had a problem with it. Randy Clark had 17 for Franklin County.
12/16/22
Glass took an early lead in-game for a big win 75-59
O' Maundre Harris was unstoppable tonight with 33 points for Glass. both teams
put pressure on the ball all night. it was a fast-paced game and a high-scoring
game. Harris had 5 assists and 5 rebounds with 4 steals. Jason Knox had
3 assists, 1 block. 3 rebounds and 11 points Aidan Treacy add 19 points
for Glass. top score for Jefferson Forest Cooper Stamm 21 points.
EM-SPORTS
Altavista and Rustburg play a hard tough game Wednesday night at Rustburg. Altavista
goes up 16 to 18 with 3;00 minutes to go in the second quarter game. Rustburg stole
the ball to take the lead 20 to 18. Altavista took the lead back 25-22 with 3; minutes
to go in the second quarter. Rustburg cut the lead by two points with 55 seconds to go before
Halftime. Rustburg stole the ball to tire the game 36-36 end of the second quarter.
Rustburg tire game 5 times before they took the lead to win the game 61-58
The top score of the game for Rustburg Eligh Sherrard 20 points for Altavista Jagen Boyd 32 points. EM-SPORTS 12/14/22
Kennedy Hubbard, All District Team
In all the athletes that have made a great impact on their teams, Kennedy Hubbard deserves her share of accolades.
The senior at Bethel High in Hampton was recognized for her outstanding play as an outfielder and garnered 2nd team honors as a member of the Peninsula All-District Team. Hubbard was a catalyst for a team that made it to the VHSL Division 5, Region 5B playoffs before losing on the road to rival Menchville High School.
Congratulations to Kenndy and her outstanding career.
EMSPORTS 6/5/2022
Ralph Sampson is a name that just about anyone old enough to see a basketball knows who he is and what a legend. At the University of Virginia, men’s basketball was the must see action because of Ralph Sampson from 1978-1983.
The three-time unanimous National College Player of the Year raised the bar for Cavalier basketball and raised the level of excellence of basketball in college.
Ralph Sampson has turned his talents from player to ambassador. He is now holding team camps for the youth and he is bringing his knowledge and personality to EC Glass High School in July 2022.
As were the days in U-Hall, Ralph Sampson is ready to display his talents. This time he is making a way for the next generation excel on the hardwood.
It is the biggest of games. It greets fans from young to old and from near to far. This is the game you look forward to every year. It is the Super Bowl.
The hopes and dreams of many rest on this game. You can have a bad season but if you are just good enough to get in the NFL Playoffs, you need a mini winning streak and find yourself in the Super Bowl. Then anything can happen.
In this year's Super Bowl, two teams that made the final game were not considered the best or the most likely to get here. The LA Rams had a chance to win a few years ago and were rebuilding with Matt Stafford at quarterback after trading their very own Jared Goff after last year's disappointment. The Cincinnati Bengals were even more of a longshot. These Bengals had not sniffed a playoff win in over 20 years. Now they were living large on the arm and bravado of wonderboy, Joe Burrow, who was one year removed from an ugly, season-ending ACL injury.
Now these two 4th seeds from their respective conferences were looking to get the ultimate crown. The biggest of these stars was the one man that could wreck havoc and change the game. Future Hall of Famer, Aaron Donald, was the most disruptive force since Reggie White. The best defensive lineman in the game over the last decade was looking to stamp his legacy as an all time great. He needed only one more box checked and that would be Super Bowl Champion.
The game started with celebrities and stars that lined the LA sky and SoFi Stadium the home of the LA Rams. This game started with a few nervous series as both teams stalled but finally LA made a few plays on the arm of Stafford and the talents of Odell Beckham, Jr. Beckham, the polarizing game-changing wide receiver, had found a new home in LA since midseason and he was looking to change his reputation or what the public thought of him. Beckham scored the first touchdown of the game to give the Rams a quick 7-0 lead. How would the Bengals respond?
Cincinnati was not fearful and found a little rhythm with a big pass from Burrow to Chase La'Marr. The duo who had been tremendous all year, set-up a field goal in the drive. As the game went into the second quarter, Stafford was still flawless. He picked apart the Bengals' defense and found his favorite receiver, Cooper Kupp, with another touchdown pass. The first error of the game came with a bobbled snap and extra point that failed. The score was 13-3 but the Bengals returned the favor.
With a mix of run and pass, the Bengals went to the bag of tricks. Running back Joe Mixon was the magician as he took a pitch and three a strike to WR Tee Higgins for the response and the Bengals were taking momentum. The Rams looked to extend the lead, but another mistake happened. Stafford took a shot into the endzone but his pass was intercepted.
The halftime score saw LA holding a narrow 13-10 lead and that was about to evaporate. On the first play in the third quarter, Tee Higgins and Joe Burrow connected on a 75-yard pass play as Jalen Ramsey was beat for the opening salvo. The "Who Dey" fanbase was rolling and the Bengals has scored 14 in a row to take a 17-13 lead. LA was attempting to comeback until Stafford was victimized once again. With another interception in the last two throws, the Rams were falling apart and Cincy was looking for a knockout.
The defenses then took center stage. The defensive line was the strength of the Rams led by Donald and they put the clamps on Cincinnati by holding them to a field goal to limit the damage of the interception. Trailing 20-13, the Rams could see time was slipping away and the home field advantage was not an advantage.
The Rams countered with a drive to get a field goal but injuries were limiting them. Beckham was out and the onus fell on Copper Kupp to carry the load. The combination of Kupp and Stafford proved to be magical as the defense began making life almost impossible for the Burrow led offense.
Donald, the distruptive force, finally got a crack through the offensive line and his energy started to wear out the Bengals. As the Rams forced several punts, the Rams re-calibrated and the offense made enough plays on the biggest drive of the game when they scored on a 15-play, 79-yard drive. The longest drive of the game was punctuated by another Stafford TD pass to Kupp. The defense did the rest as Donald and company stopped Burrow on 4th and 1 to celebrate the greatest accomplishment in professional football.
Kupp was honored as the MVP with 8 catches for 92 yards and the two touchdowns. Stafford was effective with three TDs passing and the two interceptions. Aaron Donald and Von Miller, both recorded two sacks that spearheaded a team that finished with 9 sacks.
Burrow had 1 touchdown passing to go with no interceptions and his team responded will outgaining the Rams in total yards, 348-326.
A great game to cap off a great year in the NFL.
EMSPORTS 2/14/2022
Lynchburg VA
Heritage and Jefferson Forest started out slow with the score in the first quarter Heritage
8 and Forest 5 . The Pioneers had 8 turnovers in the first half as the Cavaliers made 5 turnovers. The Pioneers controlled the inside and dominated the lane with both scoring and rebounding.
Darrius Brown of Heritage scored 12 points and got help from his teammate Kyle Ferguson who finished with a game high 13 points. The Pioneers used new lineups as they incorporated the services of new
players who were added from the JV team.
Jefferson Forest's leading scorer was Jack Wimmer who was only player from JF in double figures with 10 points.
EM-SPORTS 2/11/22
The Hilltoppers and the Bulldogs know each other very well. This matchup was the second contest between these two Lynchburg City public schools and this one had more riding no the line. The Hilltoppers took the first battle early in the year and now they were looking to maintain their hold on the top spot. The Bulldogs were at home and looking to avenge the loss when they were across town in the Glass' gym.
The Hilltoppers and Bulldogs came out scrapping and clawing. Each team didn't give up much to their opponent in the first quarter. Sully Holmes led the way for LCA with his athleticism and some high flying dunks. EC Glass with their relentles speed and tenacious in your face defense, was not intimidated. In fact, Glass held a 15-14 1st quarter lead.
With both teams battling the full 94 feet, this game looked to be a seesaw fight. Then, EC Glass stepped up the intensity and LCA could not keep up. Glass turned up their defense which led to some easy offense and by the time the dust cleared, the visitors in blue were steamrolling the stunned Bulldogs. A 19-5 second quarter blitz catapulted the EC Glass into 34-19 halftime advantage.
EC Glass took over the momentum and took away the LCA home court advantage as the second half began more like the beginning of the game. Both teams traded baskets and LCA could never take clear control of the matchups. Glass was able to maintain the healthy lead and very little changed during the fourth quarter. LCA was able to win that quarter by two points but it was too little and too late.
With the season sweep, EC Glass, now 12-1 in district, locked up at least a tie for 1st place position in the highly competitve Seminole District. LCA at 10-3, which was tied at the top just a week ago, now has dropped into third place in the Seminole but still are a threat in the VHSL 3A division. EC Glass will now look to be a big favorite in VHSL 4A division as they prepare for a state championship run as postseason tournaments are just around the corner.
Stars of the game were Aidan Tracey from EC Glass with 20 points. Sully Holmes led all scorers with 27 points to score more than half of the Bulldogs' points.
EMSPORTS 2/11/2022
In the world of pop culture and music, there are many times we see the ladies take center stage. This was on full display when the girls' basketball teams of EC Glass and Lynchburg Christian Academy met face to face on the hardwood. This epic battle would showcase not only the two best teams in the area but also two teams just over 5 miles apart that could challenge for the state titles in over a month from now.
The two top teams were battling for Seminole district supremacy as they laid their unblemished district records on the line to keep ahead of the other teams. EC Glass was 10-0 while LCA was 9-0 in
district competition. The two teams had only lost two games between them on the year.
The first matchup of this rivalry was hosted by LCA at the Lady Bulldogs' Arena. The defenses came out in full effect as the points were few and hard to find. There were far more missed shots than
made shots. The teams battle and scrapped and by the end of the first quarter the score was 9-6 in favor of Glass.
Much of the quarter, EC Glass was without out the services of their dynamite senior guard, Jamiyah Henry. The inspirational leader of the team had to take a seat with two fouls. The
recipient of those fouls was none other than sensational sophomore, Avery Mills. The Bulldogs’ superstar was a tough cover and proved as much when the second quarter commenced.
Mills collected eight points in the second quarter and spearheaded her team to a 23-19 lead in front of the home faithful. Henry was a non-factor and it hurt Glass has they saw their lead slip
away.
The teams found a better rhythm in the second half but Glass made more and finally put some breathing room between them and the Lady Bulldogs. Jamiyah Henry scored 18 points in the game and was most
effective in the final quarter where she poured in 11 points. She also led a defensive effort that saw the Lady Bulldogs score just two points in the last quarter.
Mills was sensational in the third quarter where she added another nine points to her total of 21. However, she could not get anything going in the fourth and without their best player making
shots, LCA lost momentum and eventually the game. Glass used their high energy defensive and big play ability to mount a comeback. When the final horn sounded, the Lady Hilltoppers were
on top and triumphed with a 45-36 win.
The Hilltoppers preserved their impressive Seminole district win streak that started back in January 2019. The record of wins is now 37-0 in district play in three-plus seasons.
EMSPORTS 2/2/2022
In the Seminole District, there are no off nights. The LCA Bulldogs were the defending champs and they knew all too well how hard the schedule was in the back half of the season. After a 8-0 start, the Bulldogs were beaten by the Heritage Pioneers and now had to quickly turnaround for a date with the other HillCity squad, the EC Glass Hilltoppers.
The Hilltoppers were looking to take a home victory after losing on the Bulldogs' court earlier in the year. Both teams shared the top spot in the Seminole with a single loss each in district play.
With each team prepared to take their opposition's best shot, both teams came out looking for cracks in the armor. LCA was more aggressive and more efficient. The Bulldogs ball movement and shouting gave them a double digit lead and limited the high-scoring Hilltoppers to only 19 first half points. 14 of those came from the play of Omaundre Harris.
Harris was not done. He willed and carried his squad to an impressive 57-47 triumph in front of a raucous home crowd of blue and white. Everything that went right for the Bulldogs, went the opposite way in the second half. Glass overcame a 12-point deficit to blow past LCA. There was no denying Harris who scored a game high 31 points to out pace the 22-point performance of LCA senior Sully Holmes.
EMSPORTS 2/2/2022
In the battle of big time basketball in this area, two of Lynchburg’s three high school squads squared off on the hard court. LCA battles with Heritage in a matchup of competition for Seminole District's top spot. The Bulldogs are reloading after falling short in the VHSL 3A championship title from last year. The Pioneers did not make a long playoff run but have righted the ship after a slow start.
The Pioneers were seeking revenge after losing early in the year at LCA. That game took place before the Christmas holiday break. It seems like just five short weeks but the Pioneers are 7-2 in the Seminole looking up at the undefeated district leading Bulldogs who are 8-0 in district and have lost only once this season.
The game was a defensive struggle early with LCA taking a 14-6 lead after one quarter. The Bulldogs from the jump ball showed very few holes in their defensive armor and Heritage couldn’t get in a groove. It seemed the pause between quarters was a much needed break as Heritage found their rhythm and flipped the tables and the scoreboard.
The Pioneers took control as senior guard Kyle Ferguson jumpstarted the offense. Ferguson slashed and dropped in shots from all over as his 13 points gave his team fuel to take a 31-28 halftime advantage. The three point lead was sliced to one when LCA came alive in the third quarter. With the score only 42-41, the Pioneers and Bulldogs were locked into a nip and tuck affair entering the last period.
The teams shadowed one another with a scrappy defense, tenacious effort in the boards and enough shotmaking to keep the crowd entertained. The last quarter was just a culmination of the fantastic three quarters combined and every great play was countered with a great play. The ending was even better.
Heritage was clinging to a two-point lead and only seconds remained. LCA had possession and with just two seconds left, drew up a play that had to go the length of the court for a chance to tie or win. The pass traveled in the air hoping to reach the hands of a Bulldog player but instead Kyle Ferguson secured the steal and was able to run out the clock.
Ferguson did it as he led all Heritage scorers with 22 points and created the game-clinching turnover. His teammate, Simeon McMillan, was a key contributor with 10 points.
As for LCA, this was their first loss in nearly four years to Heritage. They received an outstanding effort in defeat from Sebastian Atkins, top scorer with 26 points and Sully Holmes who complimented him with 12 points.
After a slow 0-2 district start, the Pioneers are one-half game back of the Bulldogs, now 8-1, as the Seminole District crown hangs in the balance.
EMSPORTS 1/31/2022
by EM-SPORTS.ORG 1/21/22
Lynchburg VA (Girls)
Glass Jump off to an early lead against Brookville with an 11-1 run two minutes into the game. Brookville Bees had 5 turnovers in-game and Glass had 11 steals. at end of the first quarter Glass 18
Bees 1. Glass controls the offense boards and the defense boards. Halftime score Glass 36-4 with Jermal Henry 17 points in the first half of the game.
Henry finished the game with 22 points for Glass. Hilltoppers went on to win game 61-18 to stay undefeated in the Seminole District.
Heritage got even with Glass tonight with a win it was a small crowd tonight at Heritage high school with both teams in the same city. Glass started out on top went up by 8 points. Heritage fought
back to tie the game up 28- 28 in the first quarter.Omaundre
Harris keeps getting inside the paint to score. Harris ends up with 22 points for Glass loss.
Pioneers lead at halftime 27-21 Kyle Ferguson caught fire in the second quarter
with 31 points for Heritage win. Tony Crews the head coach of Heritage had his
team play a tough defensive game they press Glass all night. also Darius Brown had
a quiet 11 points and his teammate Simieon McMillan add 10 points for the win.
by EM-SPORTS 1/20/22