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Sarah G. Banks Middle School edges rival Clifford H. Smart to win first LVC title

Sarah G. Banks Middle School edges rival Clifford H. Smart to win first LVC title
Sarah G. Banks basketball players mid-court posing with their LVC championship trophy

Sarah G. Banks Middle School boys’ basketball raised the Lakes Valley Conference championship trophy for the first time in program history on Wednesday night after edging in-district rival Clifford H. Smart Middle School in a thriller.

Sarah G. Banks Middle School boys basketball team raising their LVC championship trophy together as a group

"This is a great accomplishment for Banks and the boys’ basketball team,” said head coach Alex Rickens. “The boys worked hard, some for three years, to earn this title and they represented their school, district and community with pride, respect and integrity."

The Bulldogs trailed by as many as 12 points in the conference title game, but went on a 7-0 run in the fourth quarter to take the lead. They then locked down on defensive to hold on and edge the top-seeded Trojans, 33-31, for their first LVC crown.

“The team progressed and improved immensely throughout the season,” said Rickens. “We were able to adapt offenses and defenses to our players abilities that allowed them to achieve on the court in the positions they play. Each player contributed equally to the team's success all season long.”

Sarah G. Banks finished the year 12-1 overall, avenging its only loss of the season on Wednesday night against Clifford H. Smart.