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 4^th in Region D defeated 5^th 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 1^st 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’ 13^th 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

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

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. 

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

Hilltoppers controlled all four quarters to beat Amherst 71-57 in Monday night game in Lynchburg Va. Glass had a balance score attack with Omaundre Harris had 14 points
and Aldan Treacy with 16 points also Owen Dunlop added 18 points. Glass score 35
inside the paint. Amherst had eight turnovers in-game. Lancers had three players in double figures with Martez Andrews 16 points and AJ Jordan 13 points with Justin Byrne 11 points. Glass stays undefeated. 
EM-SPORTS.ORG 12/13/21

EC Glass vs Heritage is a must watch event, anytime and anyplace. In this early basketball season, the Hilltoppers and Pioneers are always looking to beat each other and gain a foot up in Seminole District positioning and city bragging rights.

The Hilltoppers hosted their cross-city rivals in round one of the annual HillCity Showdown Hardwood edition.

In an arena packed with different shades of blue, the EC Glass sprinted out to a 10-2 lead and led 16-6 at the end on the first quarter. 

The Pioneers slowly made up some ground and led by Kyle Ferguson, they cut the lead to 26-20 at the halftime buzzer.

EC Glass made a few key adjustments and increased the pressure on the Pioneers never slowing them to get into an offensive flow.  As the fourth quarter began, Heritage trailed by eight points.

The Pioneers cranked up the intensity by EC Glass matched them bucket for bucket and easily broke the press to shutdown and chance of a comeback.  When the clock struck zero, the Hilltoppers and their home fans got the biggest cheer, defeating the Pioneers by a score of 50-37.  The win keeps EC Glass undefeated in the young season at 3-0.  The Pioneers (0-1) will look to regroup from this season opening loss as their work to get their first win of the season.

EM-SPORTS 12/7/2021

Lynchburg VA

Heritage JV beat Glass JV -38-35  Heritage lead score was Maliki Gray with 7 points and Tavion

Clark 7 points. Glass lead score was Zacharia Wilson with 14 points.  Glass did not score 4 points in the second quarter.

 EM-SPORTS  12/6/21

Lynchburg VA

Eli Wood led EC Glass to victory with 19 points. The Hilltoppers controlled the offensive boards and defense boards.  EC Glass stayed in the lead most of the night.  The hot shooting of Wood from the outside was on display as he knocked down three three-pointers. 

The victory was good for Glass better even better for their coach, DJ Best, who had recently returned to the team following a battle with illness that had him in the hospital.

A compliment to Spotswood who gave Glass problems with their tough defense and athleticism from the shooting guards  EM-SPORTS 12/5/21

Lynchburg VA

The EC Glass Varsity Girls' took on Spotswood High School in basketball Saturday night in Lynchburg, Virginia.  The Lady Hilltoppers went up early in the game 16-10 after the first quarter.

Spotswood battled back to within 7 points as the two teams engaged in a back-and-forth as was expected. 

Henry Jamiyan had 13 points to lead Glass and Jordyn Wright-Goods added 11 points. Avery Hansbrough had 12 points for Spotswood. 

EM-SPORTS 12/5/21 

LCA is on a mission.  The Bulldogs from Lynchburg have made it known that they are looking to finish where they stopped short a year ago.  The Bulldogs hosted the Abingdon Falcons in the VHSL 3A semifinals for a shot at next week’s state title game.  It was this very game a year ago when Lord Botetourt upended the LCA dream.  

In the 2021 calendar year, Abingdon has beaten LCA in the boys basketball state semifinals (55-53) and state baseball semifinals (4-3).   The football team was next up for Abingdon.

The Falcons didn’t stand a chance.

LCA got off to a fast start and kept the pressure up all game.  Jaylin Belford opened up the scoring with an 85-yd sprint to the house halfway through the first quarter.  Belford was not done.  This time from his defensive back position, Belford used his ball skills to return an interception 72 yards for his second touchdown in the first quarter.  14-0 LCA and it was getting worse.  

In the second quarter, the LCA special teams added to the damage.  A blocked punt in Falcons’ territory gave the offense great momentum then Davis Lane hit TE Dillon Bowers with a 21-yard pass.  The score was 21-0 and the Falcons needed some help. 

Abingdon finally scored around the midpoint of the second quarter.  A nine-yard run from Andrew Hounshell made the count 21-7 but it didn’t last long.  LCA made another score to regain the 21 point advantage and lead 28-7 at halftime.

The Bulldogs didn’t stop after halftime.  Another interception, the offense punched another touchdown this time in the ground.  Gideon Davidson carried the rock 38 yards to paydirt and made the score 35-7.   Both teams traded a touchdown each for the remainder of the quarter and the fourth quarter started with LCA up 42-13.  LCA put the finishing touches on the game by outscoring Abingdon 14-0 in the last quarter. 

The powerful Phoebus Phantoms are up next as the state title tilt will take place at Liberty's Williams Stadium.  The contest will be the fifth home game for the Bulldogs this postseason for they have not had to leave the city limits.  The kickoff is scheduled for Saturday, Dec.  11.  The LCA Bulldogs have one more step to fulfill the dream that escaped them in the spring.

EMSPORTS 12/4/2021

It has been nearly a month since the last time we saw these two Seminole District’s occupants of Timberlake Road battle in the gridiron. In that classic from October, the Heritage Pionees outlasted the Brookville Bees in Stinger Stadium with an overtime thriller 30-23.

This game would move locations hit the hype and anticipation was even more rebounding.  The winner of the Region C semifinal matchup would decide a team’s future for a possible Division 3 state tourney berth.  The loser will see a great season come to an end. 

The Brookville Bees understood the assignment and passed with flying colors.  The Bees began slow but once they got the offense in motion, the Puoneers were overwhelmed by the swarm.  The Bees were stopped on their first series hit they found the right formula on the second drive.  The offensive combination of QB Drake McDaniel and RB Tayshaun Butler helped the Bees score first.  

The Pioneers would not be denied.  On the next possession, they made their way through the Bees’ defense and scored to tie the game at 7-7.  The Bees responded quickly to take the crowd out of the game. 

Following the kickoff, Butler took the handoff on the first play of the series and blasted past outstretched arms and left Pioneers in his dust.  The 78-yard sprint from the speedster pushed the lead back to 14-7 and gave the visitors a lead they would never relinquish.

The Bees defense turned in the play of the game.  With Heritage pinned back against Brookville’s endzone, Heritage was called for a penalty in the endzone.  By rule, this resulted in a safety and all the momentum was now on the side of Brookville. The Bees took the ball on a short field and capitalized when Drake McDaniel found Stephen Preston on a 26-yd pass and catch. 

The Bees were in complete control and not done yet. Another score right before halftime and 23 consecutive points had given Brookville a 30-7 halftime lead. Heritage was going to need something to happen quickly in their favor.  The game was slipping away and the momentum was firmly hanging out with Brookville.  

In the fourth quarter, the teams traded touchdowns and entered the fourth quarter at 37-14 advantage Bees.  Brookville’s offense was unstoppable and even when the light went out a City Stadium, it was just a delay of the inevitable.  

Tayshaun Butler exploded, after the lights reappeared, for a 38-yard rushing TD which was just another reminder that the Bees could do no wrong.  The game was a blowout and the final score of 50-21 was an indication the Bees were buzzing all night long.

The win gives the Bees(9-3) a date in the Regiob 3C championship game with the undefeated LCA Bulldogs, for a spot in the state’s Final Four.  Heritage will cap their season at 9-3 and look to regroup for next year.

EMSPORTS 11/20/2021 

They will remember for what you do in November.  This is a common adage used in football circles.  The EC Glass Hilltoppers are looking to start their long playoff run on this cool but mild Thursday night in November.  Their 8-2 regular season was a success in helping them earn the number 4 seed in the VHSL Group 4, Region D playoffs.

The Louisa County Lions, the 5th seed, were no stranger to the playoffs and they were the making the trip to Lynchburg City Stadium in hopes of upsetting the Hilltoppers.  They were also 8-2 and just wrapped up a season finale win over Goochland in preparation for the playoffs.

The Lions wasted no time in attacking the big blue of EC Glass and found success early. Louisa took the opening kickoff and punched it in the endzone.  The Hilltoppers wanted to respond but they stalled out on the drive.  The fourth down attempt failed and Louisa got the ball again.  

As the first time, Louisa mixed the run and pass with success.  They finished another drive with another touchdown with under a minute left in the first quarter.  

EC Glass had dug themselves a hole and nothing was working.  Following another empty possession, Louisa marched down the field again.  However, EC Glass caught a little fortune and the Lions' field goal attempt was no good.

Glass didn't squander the opportunity and used the momentum and energy of the crowd to make this offensive drive count.  Glass finally found the endzone and with about 4 minutes to play before halftime, the new score was 14-7 Louisa.

The second half saw both teams trade scores.  Louisa scored first on their initial possession of the second half.  At the 8:13 mark in the third quarter, Louisa found the endzone for the third time on the night.  The Hilltoppers stayed persistent and answered on the next series with a matching touchdown in their first possession of the second half.  After both teams got strong defensive efforts, both teams entered the fourth quarter with a little momentum as Louisa led 21-14.

Louisa made the right moves and they showed their mettle in the fourth quarter.  The Lions star QB Landon Wilson continued to punish the Glass defense.  His 2-yd TD run made the score 28-14.  The Lions defense made the final blow.  turned up the defense and when they got the ball, they did not disappoint.  The Lions were poised to finish the game and LB/WR Stephen Dean stepped in front of a George White pass and took it back the other way.  His pick six with over seven minutes left put the final score on the board giving the Lions a 35-14 lead.

EC Glass finished their season at 8-3 while Louisa(9-2) will move on to the semifinals where they await the winner of #1 Salem vs #8 Amherst. 

Star of the Game:

Louisa County’s QB Landon Wilson.  He rushed for a game-hig 263 yards and 3 TDs on 31 carries.

EM-SPORTS.org 11/11/2021

Lynchburg VA

Rustburg jumped out early on EC glass Rustburg began the match on a 5-0 run, with Hardie putting away an early kill and Eden Bigham and Aireona Hudson following suit. Glass came back with a tough server the teams traded punches for most of the night.
Rustburg stays undefeated in Seminole District. They won the state championship last year 
In the first match Rustburg won 25 ) Glass 18 ) Glass won the second match 25) Rustburg 18) Rustburg won the third match 25) Glass 22) the fourth match Glass won 25) Rustburg 23)  The finals fifth match Rustburg too home victory Rustburg 15) Glass 7). EM-SPORTS 10/14/21

BY EM-SPORTS.ORG 10/7/21

       LYNCHBURG, Va. – One of Liberty’s all-time greats will receive a special honor on Saturday when the Flames welcome Middle Tennessee to Williams Stadium during Homecoming Weekend.

       During the Flames’ 50^th Anniversary Celebration Homecoming contest, Liberty Athletics will retire the No. 23 jersey of former All-American and NFL running back Rashad Jennings. Kickoff for the contest with the Blue Raiders is set for 3:30 p.m.

       Jennings will become the fifth individual associated with the Flames’ football program to have a jersey retired, honoring his contributions and accomplishments on the gridiron.

       Liberty retired a jersey in honor of Dr. Jerry Falwell in 2006, the school’s founder and former chancellor. In 2008, former head coach Sam Rutigliano and tight end Eric Green (No. 86) each had a jersey retired in their honor. During Homecoming Weekend in 2019, Liberty retired the jersey of wide receiver Kelvin Edwards (No. 83).

       Although Jennings last donned a Liberty uniform in 2008, the native of Forest, Va., has continued to have an impact on his hometown school and alma mater more than a decade later, including his annual “Camp 180“, taking place every summer on Liberty University’s campus which averages an attendance rate of 500 young men and women and  is sponsored through his Rashad Jennings Foundation.

       During his three years with the program (2006-08), Jennings rushed for 3,633 yards and set program records for career rushing touchdowns (42), 100-yard games (22) and points scored (278).

       Jennings was a consensus first-team All-American during his senior year when he rushed for 1,526 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2008. He earned his second Big South Offensive Player of the Year award during his senior year, finishing eighth in the voting for the Walter Payton Award (top FCS player in the country).

       The bruising running back became the sixth player in program history to be selected in the NFL Draft when the Jacksonville Jaguars picked him in the seventh round in 2008.

       He had a seven-year career in the NFL, rushing for 3,772 yards and 23 touchdowns, while playing for the Jacksonville Jaguars (2009-12), the Oakland Raiders (2013) and the New York Giants (2014-16).

       Following his professional playing days, Jennings competed as a contestant on the 24th season of ABC’s Dancing with the Stars, becoming the fourth NFL player to win the Mirrorball trophy, as well as becoming a NY Times best-selling author with his autobiography “The If In Life” released in 2018 and his four-part Young Adult book series “The Coin Slot Chronicles”. 

       The retired jersey honor will be the second time Liberty Athletics has recognized Jennings. The standout running back was one of five inductees named to the 2018 Liberty Athletics Hall of Fame class.

The time had arrived. The Battle of the Jug Bowl was here.  The Hill City’s two main high schools, Heritage and EC Glass were preparing for their annual football game.  In the 2021 edition, both teams entered into battle with momentum and energy that stemmed from an earlier matchup during the spring when the 2020 fall season got moved into early 2021.

Coaches Jeff Woody (EC Glass) and Brad Bradley (Heritage) knew the importance of this game.  Each coach was priming their teams for an afternoon battle that would have an impact not only on the divided houses for friends and families in Lynchburg, but also who could stay atop of the Seminole District.

This game is usually reserved for Friday Night Lights.  This game was moved to a Saturday afternoon matinee that did not disappoint nor lack for drama and excitement.
Heritage took the game’s opening drive and punched it into the endzone.  Running back Rajan Booker started the scoring with a seven-yard rushing touchdown.  With a 7-0 lead, the Pioneers took early control.  EC Glass made a few adjustments and capped a successful 80-yard drive to tie the game at 7-7 before the end of the first period.

Heritage took the next drive in the second quarter and made it another successful effort.  With the scrambling of QB Kam Burns and the tough running of RB Zack Steele, the Pioneers ran into the endzone again on the feet of Steele, who scored from six yards out.  As the Hilltoppers attempted to respond, the Pioneers’ defense made a big play.  An interception of EC Glass QB George White’s pass, gave Heritage a short field.  Two plays and another touchdown and 21-7 was the score in less than two minutes elapsed clock time.

EC Glass couldn’t solve the Heritage defense and struggled with the Pioneers’ offense as well.  Heritage cranked up the offense as the temperature was rising in the stadium.  The fervent cheers of the orange and blue was only matched by the energy from the Heritage sidelines.
After a punt, Heritage didn’t let up on the EC Glass defense.  QB Kam Burns took matters into his own hands or in this case feet.  The speedster found a seam and turn on the burners and he headed 43 yards to another touchdown.  The Pioneers were starting to turn this one-sided game into a long day for their rivals.  It just got worse, because the very next play from Glass was a fumble.  It bounced into the waiting hands of Rajan Booker, who found the endzone from 17 yards out and gave Heritage a 35-7 lead with just a couple of minutes before halftime.

EC Glass was struggling to find any rhythm and had taken what seemed to be a knockout punch from the Pioneers.  EC Glass was not ready to quit and with just over a minute left, the combination of George White to Lyvarius Gilbert resulted in a 35-yard scoring pass play that breathe new life into the Hilltoppers.  After 28 straight points, EC Glass was able to slow down the Pioneers’ momentum and got a boost going into halftime down 35-14.

If anyone thought this game was over then they were in for a surprise.  The Hilltoppers took the ball first after halftime and jumped on the scoring train again.  EC Glass took the momentum out of the locker room and worked their way back down the field.  White found his target Marty Kittrell with a short 7-yard pass for a second consecutive touchdown.  The game was now a roller coaster of big plays and emotions with one side up and then the other side down.  The Hilltoppers were rising and the defense had started to cutoff the Pioneer’s offense. 

With the ball back in the hands of the offense, George White and his accurate right arm made his next scoring pass an on-target rainbow into the reliable hands of outstanding wide receiver Eli Wood.  Wood outjumped two defenders from Heritage and when he landed in the endzone, the Hilltoppers were only a score away from tying the game.

Just as it seemed that Heritage was now the team looking to find answers, they turned to a reliable source, RB Zack Steele.  The Pioneers were held scoreless in the third quarter and EC Glass was squarely in control.  Heritage turned to a constant force to gain their footing by giving to ball to Steele who had been able to slice and dice the Glass defense for most of the afternoon.  This drive was essential for Heritage to stay on top and they got a boost from Steele who plunged into the endzone from two yards away to give Heritage their first score of the second half.  With under 10 minutes left in regulation, the TD helped pushed the lead back to double digits at 42-28 following the point after kick.   

EC Glass may have been stunned but they didn’t stumble.  EC Glass took the next possession and continued their offensive success.  George White tossed his fourth touchdown pass.  This time he hit Kittrell for his second touchdown catch of the game with a 37-yard strike.  The score made it 42-35 and now Glass had to lean on their defense.  Oh, the defense responded and after a Heritage punt, it seemed very bleak for the offense.  The punt was downed at the 2-yard line and it looked like a mile for EC Glass to score with under two minutes left. 

The EC Glass team was not worried not flinched.  Coach Woody went into his bag of tricks and found the best trick of all.  Their backs up against goalline and the game in the balance, White threw a quick pass out to the side, then his wide receiver performed a perfect hook and lateral with the speedy Mosley taking the pitch and racing up the sideline for 98 yards to paydirt.  

The impressive scoring play gave the Glass sideline the type of jubilation you seem to find when you win a championship.  There was pandemonium with 1:41 left on the clock.  The Pioneers were stunned but time was left on the clock. Heritage regrouped and any big play that you can do then I can do better.  The Pioneers took the next possession and QB Kam Burns used his arm to make the biggest offensive play of the game.  Burns dropped back and found Darius Brown.  The elusive receiver caught the ball in stride and made all the right moves and his scored from 79 yards out to give the Pioneers the lead back with just over a minute left in the game.

The Hilltoppers had one more chance.  The offense had been nearly unstoppable in the second half and they were going to need at least one more big play to get this game into overtime.  As much as each team’s fans engaged in this tug-of-war, the teams were also battling it out on the field.  The Pioneers were able to make the most important play.  The defense was bending but didn’t break.  A last-minute turnover from Heritage sealed the win and made this edition of the Jug Bowl Battle maybe the most memorable in the classic rivalry. 

Heritage 49 EC Glass 42 and it was shame someone had to lose.

EM-SPORTS 9/19/2021

It only seemed like yesterday when high school football was last played.  In reality, it had been a little over four months when the VHSL played spring football as a way to counter the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.  Two teams who played in the spring and had success were back and ready to go just as August was coming to an end. 

The EC Glass Hilltoppers enjoyed g the most success they have had under coach Jeff Woody.  Following a Region 4D title runner-up, Glass was looking to wreck shop in the Seminole and get closer to the state title. The visiting Lord Botetourt Cavaliers were even closer.  They had a chance to capture the crown but fell just short in the VHSL 3A state title game to the hands of Lafayette High School.  This was the second consecutive runner-up finish for LB and they couldn’t wait to make sure that a third time would be the charm to secure the elusive state crown. 

The Hilltoppers showcased an explosive offense and hit the visitors in the mouth early and often.  Before the Lord Botetourt Cavaliers could blink, the score was 34-0 in favor of EC Glass. WR Eli Wood made a highlight-reel catch as one of his  2 receiving touchdowns in the first half. QB George White was sensational tossing five passing touchdowns in the first half.  Glass was crushing into the half up 34-7.

Leading 41-7 late in 4th qtr, the Hilltoppers had provided more players some snaps and gave the starters a much-deserved break.  However, this gave LB some hope and they made a surge.  The Cavaliers scored 23 consecutive points on Glass late in the game to make the score a little closer. 

EM-SPORTS 8/27/21 Lynchburg VA

Fri, Jul 2 at 12:20 PM

The EC Glass Lady Hilltoppers have been the queens of the Seminole District in basketball since 2019.  The success of the girls’ basketball has been a combination of hard work, talent and the leadership of coach Anitra Thomas.

Coach Thomas has taken her talents and experience to the next level as she will be the new assistant head coach for the University of Lynchburg Hornets Women’s Program.

Coach Thomas is no stranger to central Virginia.  She starred at Brookville High School leaving as the all-time leading scorer in the school’s basketball program.  She matriculated to Christopher Newport University where she had a remoarkable career as a four-year starter for the Captains. 

At EC Glass, Coach Thomas was a winner in her two years at the helm.  In her first season (2019-2020), the team won the Seminole District Regular Season Crown as well as advancing to the Class 4 VHSL State Quarterfinals.  That team finished 22-5.  The momentum carried over to the shortened 2020-2021 seas due to the pandemic.  The team went undefeated at 8-0.  They repeated as regular season champs of the Seminole District.  However, the chance to advance back to the state tourney was cut short due to Covid-19 affecting the program.

The back-to-back regular-season championships and the 30 wins in 35 games highlight what a tremendous impact Coach Thomas had in her two years on the sidelines.

The program will not have to look far as they stayed within the family hiring an alum.  Cedric Jones, the former multisport athlete when he attended EC Glass, will take over as the head coach.  Jones had been the assistant to Coach Thomas for both years and knows the program well.  Jones was formerly the head coach of the girls’s program at William Campbell High School before taking the top assistant position at EC Glass. 

EM-SPORTS 

Great things come to those who wait. Just ask the Heritage Girls' Track and Field is synonymous with winning.  They are the reigning  outdoor Class 3 Champions and the crown will stay in Lynchburg.  The pandemic canceled the 2020 VHSL State Championships.  The wait was well worth it as the Lady Pioneers did all its scoring with just five athletes.   

Their is the saying, big surprises can come in small packages.  These packages can show up in different ways.  The biggest of these powerful displays was provided by HHS Junior Alaysia Oakes, the winner of three events and 46 points all by herself.  Her teammates also brought their best to the party and the lineup of seniors Tay Blake, Kaelynn Hawkins, Graysen Arnold and Jalasia Jones finished what Oakes started.   

Blake showed her versatility in four events and posted three top-5 finishes, her best finished was runner-up in the triple jump.  Blake earned 22 points to help propel her team to the overall title at 74 points.  James Monroe finished runner-up with 69 points. Oakes completed all five events at the meet in what seemed to be record time.  The 3A even was held independent of the 4A to accommodate Covid-19 regulations but this also meant less time to wait between events for multi-talented athletes. 

Oakes came away 1st place finishes in the triple jump (38-08.25), long jump (18-02) and 100 dash (12.19) titles.  Her runner-up finishes included the 200m dash behind fellow Seminole competitor, Rustburg's Emily Coates in the 200 dash and second in the 400m dash. 

She garnered a whopping 46 points by herself and now owns 10 individual state titles and three team state crowns in her 3 years (two outdoors and one indoors).

The state better get ready because Oakes and company don't look to be slowing down in the future.  

EMSPORTS.org 06/19/2021

There are many storylines in rivalries.  When teams play each other more than once, they begin to understand tendencies and it becomes a chess match between coaches and players.

In the case of Amherst vs Jefferson Forest, these teams were playing for more than bragging rights.  They were looking to get one step closer to the Region 4D championship. The victor of this Regional 4D semifinal would be a step closer to the VHSL Division 4 four-team state tournament.

In this year shortened by the Covid-19 pandemic, each game mattered.  The Cavaliers had been swept by these Lancers twice in very close matchups.  This third edition was send the loser to summer vacation and the winner could look forward to another chance to the state title.

It has been said that it is difficult to beat a team three times.  This adage was never truer as Jefferson Forest jumped out to a 6-0 lead ambushing the Lancers and quieting a home crowd.  

JF scored early on a sacrifice fly in the top of the first inning.  The Cavaliers tacked on another run compliments of a homer crushed over the center field fence by Domenic Rowlands.  This was the beginning of a breakout frame as four more runs crossed home plate before Amherst was able to get all three outs.

The big lead proved to be more than enough for the Cavaliers but not by much late.

The Lancers would not go away quietly into the beautiful evening.  The Lancers scratched a run across finally in the sixth inning and threatened for more before JF pitching closed the
door.  

With the Lancers shutting out JF since the second inning, they were down to their last three outs.  The bottom of the seventh was drama filled. Amherst came out attacking and put JF on their heels. It seemed like every pitch was critical and every batter fought with each pitch.  The Lancers looked to be in business as they got three runs back and the big blow was the two-run double off the bat of Jonah Cunningham.  

The crowd was in the edge of their seats and the tension was building.  However, the comeback was not to be as JF finally got that last out and celebrated on the Lancers' turf by eliminating the #1 seed and advancing into the regional final.  

The bitter loss ended the Lancers' successful season at 10 wins and three losses.  They were surely expecting to go further but must regroup and wait another year.   The Cavaliers (10-4) will celebrate for a short time before turning their focus onto the next challenge looking to stay alive in the single elimination playoff tournament.

EMSPORTS.org  6/15/2021

David Williams introduced as new Liberty HS basketball coach
by Dave WallsWednesday, June 9th 2021

BEDFORD, Va. (WSET) — A new era of basketball began Tuesday night in Bedford.

New boys basketball coach David Williams met parents and future players for the first time, setting the tone for the future of his program. Williams replaces Randy Dunton, who led the Minutemen for 5 seasons.

Although it's Williams' first head coaching position, the William Fleming alum has paid his dues for quite some time, including stints as an assistant coach at Salem (2008-2014), as well as several AAU and club programs in the Roanoke Valley. Williams returns to Bedford, after serving as an assistant under coach Hank Luton in 2014-15.

The LCA Bulldogs had faced many challenges in this football season.  They had high hopes which were quickly dashed in the first game of the year at Brookville.  The Bulldogs started strong but faded in that game.  The question was "how could they recover?"

The answer was the current resounding six-game winning streak that included exacting revenge on #1 seed Brookville in the playoffs.  Their wave of victories included a dominant defeat of city rival Heritage Pioneers to claim their first ever Region 3C title.

A new experience awaited as they entered the Class 3A state semifinals and a date with undefeated Lord Botetourt.  The formidable squad from Daleville, Virginia were use to this excitement and had become regulars to the state tournament.  As a matter of fact, the Cavaliers were anxious to return to the title game where they fell just short in 2019, taking home the runner-up trophy.

Both teams started slow and seem to try and gauge the others game plan.  As the first quarter expired, the scoreboard was still untouched.  Eventually, the first drive of the second quarter resulted in points.  LB scored first with a 43-yard field goal to take a 3-0 lead.

Neither team would give an inch but finally LCA's defense broke again as Lord Botetourt scored on a four yard rush from sensational running back Hunter Rice.  They took a 10-0 lead with a few minutes left in the half. As LCA attempted to respond, an errant pass from QB Lane Davis was intercepted.  LB wasted no time in capitalizing.  The turnover led to another TD, 48-yard streak from KJ Bratton with three seconds remaining before halftime.  

The new score was 17-0 and the Cavaliers were primed to blow this game open.  The Bulldogs needed to regroup. 

Lord Botetourt started the third quarter as the ended the second quarter.  The size and strength of the offensive line was in full display are LB needed very little time to record another TD.  If it ain't broke then don't fix it.  Bratton once again, this time from 74 yards out.

Leading 24-0, the game looked all but over.  However, someone forgot to tell LCA to give up.

The team from Lynchburg made up their minds their trip would not be in vain.  LCA started to climb out of the hole with a Lane Davis TD midway through the third quarter in an answer to the previous score.  LCA then became more aggressive on defensive which gave the offense another opportunity.  Into the fourth quarter, LCA took another drive down into the redzone.  Once again, they scored using the legs and feet of Davis.  LCA was successful on the two-point conversion and the score was 24-14.  With LCA gaining momentum, the Cavaliers needed an answer.  Instead, the worst happened and the Cavaliers' gaffe led to a safety for LCA.  With just under 10 minutes to play, LCA was within a score and could sense the tide turning.

Lord Botetourt couldn't get their footing or rhythm and once more LCA was knocking on the door.  Another successful drive provided another Davis rushing TD and with just over five minutes left, LCA was looking to tie.  However, the biggest play of the game was what didn't happen.  The two-point conversion failed and a moment of exhaling or relief could be heard on the Cavaliers' sideline while LCA knew a golden chance was missed.

The rally was nearly complete but LCA could no come up with the requisite conversion. The clock displayed 90 seconds and the Bulldogs' offense was facing fourth down. LCA went to their bag of tricks inside Lord Botetourt territory.  The double pass attempt came up short stop and the Cavaliers could finally lift their heads up to claim victory in this hard fought semifinal tilt. 

Lord Botetourt (9-0) survived by the skin of their teeth.  The Bulldogs (6-2) were valiant in defeat and proudly represented their position as the Region 3C champs.

It is never a easy pill to swallow when the ultimate prize is within the reach of your fingertips it both teams were extremely capable and the game was indicative of a heavyweight matchup.

EMSPORTS 4/25/2021

The Rustburg Lady Red Devils' Volleyball team were on a mission since they were able to get back on the court.  The Red Devils had tasted success in the 2019 season making it to the VHSL Class 3A state semifinals before falling to the juggernaut Lord Botetourt Lady Cavaliers.  The Cavaliers were able to capture back to back state titles and the loss left a lasting impression in the minds of the Red Devils.

Rustburg was amped up to get back and avenge their loss but they could not start with the pandemic postponing the season from Fall 2020 to Spring 2021.  It didn't matter because whenever it started, the Red Devils were going to finish on top.

The hard work and perseverance in the midst of the challenges of Covid-19 did not deter Rustburg from capturing the VHSL 3A state title.  The perenniel Cavaliers from Lord Botetourt were not able to recapture their magic.  The Red Devils took on all opponents with the same effort and efficiency.  The Red Devils swept all rivals in the Seminole District finishing at 11-0 in the regular season and kept the momentum into the regionals.

With the success of the regular season, Rustburg earned the top seed in the Region 3C and thus homecourt advantage throughout the playoffs.

Each team they faced tried but ultimately failed.  The Red Devils rolled through the regionals sweeping all opponents and turned their attention on the state level.

Where Lord Botertourt would usually be the next obstacle, Hidden Valley awaited.  It did not matter for Rustburg dispatched them in 3 straight sets.  That set the scene for the state title battle against New Kent High School.  Rustburg was primed and their was nothing New Kent could do about the force of the Rustburg offense.

When the dust cleared, the Red Devils finished off a fantastic season and swept and overwhelmed New Kent by final scores of 25-12, 25-13, 25-14.

The victory was extremely sweet for coach Kristin Hardie.  She was not only the coach of this year's team but also the mother to outstanding outside hitter Kate Hardie.  Coach Hardie also was a star setter on the 1992 championship team so she has seen her career come full circle.

The Red Devils will be primed to attempt the repeat in the Fall of 2021 with the hopes of continuing to shine.

by EMSPORTS.org 4/25/2021 

The Region 3C Championship was going to be decided on this cool Friday night in the city of Lynchburg.  In this next battle of Seminole rivals, the LCA Bulldogs had the privilege of hosting the Heritage Pioneers.  LCA's upset of previously undefeated #1 seed, the Brookville Bees, set the stage for this new edition of Hill City opponents.

The Bulldogs who for years were a state championship caliber program in the private school ranks had only been competing for a few years with the VHSL.  This was new territory for a team that originally entered as a Class 4 program.  The success at their previous levels was finally demonstrating itself in the always crowded Class 3, Region B field.

The Heritage Pioneers who were no stranger to success under the guidance of Brad Bradley were looking to get back to the state Final Four.  They would have to do it as the visiting team but were very familiar with Liberty Christian.

LCA struck first when QB Davis Lane touchdown snuck into the endzone.  Leading 6-0, the Bulldogs were hoping their fast start would snowball into an offensive explosion as they had last week when beating Brookville 42-14.  The Pioneers had other plans.  The Pioneers ground game answered the Bulldogs score when the Deuce, Deuce Crawford, got loose and bust a 73-yard sprint to the house.  After the point after attempt kick was good, the Pioneers led 7-6.

LCA was not phased and used a solid mix of run and passing to their favor to score the next 10 points and keep the Heritage offense on the sidelines.  With a 16-7 lead at halftime, the Bulldogs had taken momentum with the lead.

The Pioneers would not rest easy so they made noise in the first possession of the third quarter.  QB Kameron Burns was able to make some magic happen and his pass to Keshaun Hubbard was successful for a 26-yard catch and run to the endzone.   

The Pioneers were looking to turn up the heat and give the Bulldogs a taste of their own medicine.  However, the Heritage energy would soon fizzle as LCA countered with a third quarter score of their own.  Cade Wycoff bullied into the promise land with a 4-yard ground and pound attack.  His score gave LCA a little breathing room.

As the game headed to the fourth quarter, each team was looking for the next momentum play or advantage.  As both teams struggled for control, neither defense would break.  That was until LCA was able to sustain a drive culminating in Davis Lane's second rushing touchdown of the night.

The late score was more than enough to dampen the spirits of any comeback by the visitors.  The final horn sounded and the cheering came from the home side as the LCA Bulldogs captured their 1st Region 3C Championship and a birth into the state semifinals.

Final Stats (provided by newsadvance.com)

HHS;LCA

First Downs;12;13
Rushes-Yards;35-102;39-248
Passing Yards;92;80
Passing;6-18-0;6-21-1
Total Offense;194;328
Penalties-Yards;4-25;11-95
Fumbles-Lost;3-2;1-0

story by EMSPORTS.org  4/17/2021
 

Playoff time is a special time of year.  The hard work, the endless hours and the countless drops of sweat will all be judged by what happens in the postseason. The time to claim the crown starts now.  The Volleyball season like other 2020 Fall sports is now completing their seasons after a postponement.  The local teams that represent the Seminole, Dogwood and Private school districts competed in a short season but still with the focus of being state champions.

When the playoffs start this spring, no longer will districts host tournaments but teams that qualify will jump straight into respective regional okay and then onto the state tournaments. The season of "win, you stay in" or "1 and done" is upon us. 

The Rustburg Red Devils completed an undefeated regular season and claimed top honors in the Seminole.  Their success also earned the top seed in the Class 3, Region C bracket.  In Class 4, Region D, the Seminole teams from EC Glass and Jefferson Forest earned the second and third seeds which meant they would face off for the third time in this season. The other team from the Seminole, the LCA Bulldogs were also part of the eight team Region C in Class 3.  Their reward was a date with Rustburg for a third battle. 

The 7 teams of the Dogwood District played each other both home and away. Their competitions prepared them for the playoffs.  Each team from the Dogwood had to look up to the Appomattox Raiders.  The Raiders fought off all competitors to complete an undefeated regular season and then entered the Class 2, Region B as the no. 3 seed in a crowded 12 team region.

They were not alone as the Dogwood qualified all but 1 team into regional play.

The Dan River Wildcats garnered the 10th seed only to travel to face their rivals, the 7th seeded Nelson  County Governors.  The Chatham Cavaliers were primed to make the trip to Radford, to face the Radford Bobcats in an 8 vs 9 tilt.  The Gretna Hawks   who finished second to the Raiders, gained a home matchup as the 4th seed.

The other Dogwood squad looking to challenge for a title are the perennial state challengers, the Altavista Colonels.  The 4th -seeded Colonels who are always a feisty bunch, will have their hands full as they journey into the territory of the top seed, the Riverheads Gladiators in Class 1, Region C action.

With all the public school action that the VHSL sponsors, it would be an oversight not to recognize the achievements the private school teams.  The Temple Christian Crusaders and the powerful the Timberlake Christian Tornadoes.  They secured the top seed in the VACA State Tournament and had the pleasure of hosting the entire field.  

At the end of the exciting VACA State Tournament, the Tornadoes achieved the ultimate prize winning both the semifinals and finals in sweeps all in a day’s work. 

Congratulations to all the area volleyball players, coaches, staff and supporters who have made this elongated and extended Fall 2020/Spring 2021 season, one that will not soon be forgotten.

EMSPORTS.org. 4/15/2021

 If good things really come to those who wait, the Altavista Colonels are ready to celebrate.  This historic powerhouse in Campbell County earned another VHSL Final Four berth with a runaway victory over Rappahannock County, 69-48 in the Group 1, Region B Championship.

Altavista is no stranger to the state semifinals. They had to wait four days to play this regional final. They have made 13 appearances in the state tournament and claimed 4 championship trophies. However, this program had only seen losing seasons the last three years so this was a great change.

The Colonels used a balanced attack on offense and a suffocating, in-your-face defense to convert turnovers into easy baskets.  The Panthers were in a hole from the beginning and were not able to recover from the early Colonels’ firepower.

The Colonels doubled up the visitors 18-9 in the first quarter and never looked back.  By scoring in double digits each period, Altavista continued to expand their lead and never saw any advantage under 10 points the entire game.

Stuart Hunt led three Colonels in scoring with 18.  He was a stat sheet stuffer.  Hunt did a lot of everything with his nine assists, eight rebounds, and four steals.  Jayllen Jones shared high honors at 18 as well. Ryan Hunt contributed with 17.  The Panthers were led by 11 from Matthew Pullen and 10 from John Mullins.  

The win sends Altavista to play Region 1A the Matthews Blue Devils for a chance to advance into the VHSL Class 1 State Championship. 

Altavista Stats defensive boards 20 rebounds, offensive boards 12 rebounds, 12 turnovers, scored inside the painted 8 points, 4 three-pointers made  scored on fast-break 16 points. 

Rappahannock Stats defensive boards 12 rebounds, offensive boards 10 rebounds, 12 turnovers, scored inside painted 10 points, 4 three-pointers made, one fast-break for 2 points.

EMSPORTS 2/17/2021

The Liberty Christian Bulldogs earned the #1 seed in Region C, Group 3A and wanted to take advantage of home court.  The 2020-2021 season had not been traditional however the Bulldogs didn’t know any different.  After beating Heritage and capturing a second, consecutive Seminole District Title, the next mission was to win the region.  The pandemic had changed the format so only regional champs advanced to the state tournament, aka VHSL’s Final Four.

Step one was dispatching Turner Ashby in the quarterfinals. Step two was slightly tougher as a motivated Fluvanna County entered the Bulldogs’ arena for the 3C semifinals.The games stayed out with reach team searching for the best pass and the best shot.  LCA’s effective man to man defense was countered by the Flucos’ 3-2 defense which stretched the Bulldogs offense. At the end of the first period, LCA led 15-10.  Both teams picked up the pace and the offenses answered with shots falling from every corner of the gym.

The Bulldogs held a slight lead of 28-24 at the half.

Fluvanna attempted to turn up the pace and extend their defense.  The change backfired as LCA used the aggressiveness against the Flucos and were able to score in transition as well as heat up behind the three point line.  The Bulldogs enjoyed their best scoring period and broke the game open with a 49-33 lead going into the fourth. The fourth quarter saw each team trade baskets and turnovers. The damage was done and the Bulldogs won comfortably 67-53 to move into the championship looking to claim the trophy and a spot in the state tournament in Class 3A.

The win extends the LCA winning streak to 11 and sets up a 3C Regional Final at home, with the Spotswood Trailblazers.  Fluvanna finishes the season at 11-5. 

Game Highlights:

LCA Offense rebounds 11

LCA defensive rebounds 19

LCA made 7 three-pointers

Turnovers 8

Seth Hildedrand 15 points

Jalen Leftwich 12 points and 13 rebounds

Fluvanna's Offense 8 rebounds

Fluvanna's defensive 15 rebounds

Fluvanna made 6 three-pointers 

Turnovers 12

EMSPORTS 2/12/2021

Seth Hildebrand - 23 points included five 3-pointers and Haddon Smith added 17 points for L.C A. Both teams shot a lot of three-pointers. Turner Ashby had 13 turnovers and 10 rebounds on defensive boards11 rebounds on offense. Liberty Christian controls both ends of the court with 20 rebounds on defensive boards and 15 rebounds on offense boards.

Liberty Christian Girls 52)  Turner Ashby 26)    EM-SPORTS 2/8/21

On Senior night at the Pioneer Fieldhouse, a heavyweight battle took place. Just a few miles separated this Seminole District rivals and the game lived up to the hype. LCA opened the season with a loss at Amherst but had been unbeaten ever since. Heritage had its first loss at LCA but was looking to win the rematch and grabbed a share of the regular season title with the Bulldogs.

All the stars were shining as Jacobi Lambert, senior shooting guard for the Pioneers was on fire early. He came out scoring the first five points for Heritage but LCA showed balance and teamwork to take a 16-12 lead after the first quarter.

Jalen Leftwich, reigning Player of the Year, did his part as he scored and dished to open teammates. His all around okay with the 10 points and several assists gave LCA a 31-26 lead at the half. Lambert was unstoppable as he scored 17 to keep the Pioneers close.

The intensity and energy in the gym only increased after halftime. For the few fans fortunate enough to see this game, they were treated to a classic.

The teams battle back and forth with Heritage getting close but Bulldogs continuing to hold a narrow lead. As the pivotal fourth quarter emerged, the teams were only separated by four points with LCA still leading, 52-48. This was not just about a district title, this game was about revenge and pride. The Pioneers kept climbing the at hill, at every turn it seemed they were not going to get on top.

Just as it looked like the Bulldogs were poised to make it official, Heritage took the lead at 66-65 when Bre’Andre Horsley dropped in a fadeaway jumper with under a minute left. The Pioneers overcame a double-digit deficit in the last quarter to give themselves a chance for victory and a share of the Seminole crown. LCA was not rattled. They had one last possession and they made it count. The Bulldogs had been disciplined in their offensive attack. Following a missed jumper, Leftwich collected the rebound and calmly found an open teammate. Haddon Smith knocked down a corner 3-ball with about five seconds left. The dagger three-pointer ended Heritage hopes a desperation heave was unsuccessful. The Pioneers were close but unable to complete the comeback.

The victory cemented LCA as back to back Seminole champs and locks them into the #1 seed for the regional tournament. Heritage will have to settle for runner-up and the number two seed in the same region starting week of February 8th. What a tremendous finish to the shortened season. The basketball fans missed a treat but the players were eager to collect championship hardware.

Jacobi Lambert went out on a high with 32 points to lead all scorers. Jalen Leftwich finished with 18.

EMSPORTS 2/4/2021

The time had arrived. The first meeting was nearly a month ago. The Hill City Showdown had reached the second matchup. This time Heritage was the host and EC Glass was looking for revenge. 

The Hilltoppers were treading water at 3-3 on the season while the Pioneers were still in a winning streak since losing first game of the year to LCA. It looks like no one told Glass that Heritage was on fire. The Hilltoppers owned the court, the boards and the scoreboard. Heritage was shocked and looked to be standing still as Glass raced out to a 26-10 first quarter lead on the strength of 6 three point baskets. The offense was unstoppable and the defense kept Heritage’s leading scorer, Jacobi Lambert (19 for the game) without a point in the first frame. The Pioneers came out with more effort but Glass matched them point for point. The energy picked up however Glass could not miss. When the halftime horn sounded, EC Glass was leading 42-22 in dominating fashion.

Heritage was down but certainly not out. Their focus was evident as they sliced and diced the Hilltoppers turning the 20-point deficit into single digits as the fourth quarter was about to begin . Trailing 54-45 with eight minutes left, the Pioneers were able to stay even with Glass but the lead was too large. Heritage had pulled to as close as four points halfway through the fourth quarter. After a couple of o missed opportunities, Glass responded each time. With under two minutes left, Treacy splashed home a dagger 3 from the corner pushing to put the lead back to nine and turning away Heritage. The Hilltoppers finished the wire to wire effort with a victory of 75-64.

The win evened the season series at 1-1 and with no Seminole District Tourney born teams will now focus on their respective regional tournaments with the hopes of advancing deep into the state tournaments.

Game Highlights:

EC Glass

O’Maundre Harris (game high) 25 points also with 10 rebounds and 7 assists
Aidan Treacy with 22 points
Successful on 10 3-pointers, 75% FG shooting
Glass converted 14 of 15 free throws
25 rebounds (15 Off./10 Def.)
10 turnovers

Heritage
Jacobi Lambert with 19
Kyle Ferguson with 15
23 rebounds (15 Off./8 Def.)
15 turnovers

EMSPORTS 2/3/2021

The Amherst County Lancers Girls’ Basketball Team was having tremendous success in the 2020-2021 season.  The team was riding a five game winning streak after a nail-biting opening game loss to the Lynchburg Christian Academy Bulldogs.

Amherst had the unenviable task of facing the EC Glass Lady Hilltoppers.  The Lady Hilltoppers entered the contest undefeated on the season and had not been challenged all year.

This game was a rematch of last year’s Seminole District Championship that Amherst won in an upset over EC Glass

The visiting Hilltoppers and Lady Lancers traded the lead a few times getting a feel for each other.  At the end of the first quarter, EC Glass led 9-7.  

The game turned in the second quarter as second as Glass raced out to easy transition baskets using their vaunted full count pressure and intense man to man defense.  The Lady Lancers were stunned and could never recover with numerous turnovers and missed shots.  By the time the damage was done, EC Glass had ballooned the lead at halftime to 27-11.

The game did not get any better for the home team.  Amherst struggled to generate enough offense to counter the Lady Hilltoppers big advantage.  Glass stretched the lead to 21 before Amherst made a small rally in the fourth  quarter before finally losing by a score 46 - 31

The stats of the game tell the story.  EC Glass forced 23 turnovers by Amherst.  Glass also won the rebounding battle with 17 defensive boards and six on offense.  Those 23 total rebounds out gained the 19 boards collected by Amherst ( 14 on defense, 5 on offense).  

Individually, Amherst was led by their star center, Nadia West, who had a team high 8 points.

EC Glass was led by sharpshooting guard, Amari Osei  who pumped in a game high 12 points and Jeriyah Asborne who had 6 points and six assists. 

With the victory, EC Glass remains undefeated at 5-0 and Amherst now falls to 5-2. 

Wood Carrington had 18 points for Glass he also will be going to U.V.A.next year.

Rustburg leading score Landon Sweeney with 16 points   EM-SPORTS 1/26/21

LYNCHBURG VA

LCA Bulldogs office had a high percentage of shots from the floor. LCA using a 16-0 run to break away from Glass in the third-quarter. This the second victory for LCA against E.C.Glass. But Glass office was struggling all night to score. LCA guard Seth Hildebrand had 12 points Jalen Leftwich leading all scoring with 16 points also have commit Emory & Henry. EC Glass top score Owen Dunlop 10 points.

LCA probably will be the favorite to win the Seminole District title. EM-SPORTS 12321

Heritage Pioneers were riding the emotional wave of a big win against their arch-rival, EC Glass Hilltoppers. The Pioneers would not have very much time to celebrate as they welcomed another significant Seminole opponent, the undefeated Amherst Lancers. The Lancers were looking to grab another road win and continue to build their lead atop the district standings.

The hot shouting Pioneers could not get out of the gates fast enough as the Lancers took the fight to them early. As Amherst connected from inside and outside, Heritage struggled finding any consistency and dug a hole for themselves. The Lancers took advantage of the turnovers and missed shots and built a 23-16 lead at the halftime buzzer.

As was the case in last week’s victory at EC Glass, the Pioneers came out more aggressive and more determined. The shots that were missing in the first half, found the target more often in the third and fourth quarters.

Amherst was knocked down but not completely out. The Lancers were trailing with less than three seconds left and had the ball with a chance to win. Heritage prepared for the final shot and their stifling man-to-man defense did just enough to thwart the potential game-winning jumper. The Pioneers had survived a gallant effort from the visiting Lancers and held on for the one-point win.

GAME HIGHLIGHTS
Heritage: leading scorer, Jacobi Lambert 18points
Heritage had 14 turnovers
13 rebound on defense
11 rebound on offense

Amherst: leading scorer, Brett Waugh 26 points including 4 3-pointers
Amherst had 14 turnovers
13 rebounds on defense
8 rebounds on offense
EM-SPORTS 1/18/21