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It's the MPAA Boys Class A state championship between the Falmouth Navigators and the Brewer is and welcome to the Augusta Civic Center.

Class A Boys.

A gold ball is up for grabs The Bridges and the Falmouth Navigators, two top seeds in their region, are about to get set for a battle here in Augusta.

I'm Rob Kennedy, along with Brandon Terrell.

Both these teams do what they do incredibly well.

They wouldn't be here if they didn't.

But what they do is very different from each other.

Yeah, all they have in common here is that they are senior late in both of these teams here tonight have five senior starters, all ten starters on the court, seniors here tonight.

On the one hand, the Brewer witches have been flying high throughout the season.

They average over 70 points a game good for sixth in the state and they want to get up and down and score in the sixties or seventies.

On the other side, the Falmouth navigators play at a much more deliberate pace and they use a boa constrictor like defense to squeeze the life out of their opponents.

They haven't let up more than 34 points in this tournament so far, but they have a huge test tonight against Brewer navigators.

17 and four on the season brewer night and one the witches looking for their first goal ball ever.

Haven't been here since 1988 they lost in the more shipbuilders down the spin here but it's been a while for them as well they haven't played at the Augusta Civic Center since 2005 is what my partner Brandon Terrell found but they do have a gold ball in the back 2016 and they got here close last year.

Let's go down to our sideline reporter now that's Jim Barnes he is standing by with found with coach Dave Halligan thank you very much.

I totally get to know you're one of the legendary coaches in this area.

I know you're humble about it, but you've seen a lot of basketball over these years.

You probably knew it early going.

This could happen with a foul on the team making it to the state championship Well, we have a lot of grit and we have a lot of competitive spirit with our group.

We might not be the best basketball players, but we're going to compete tonight.

All right.

So tell us how are you going to compete?

You know that Brewer is running gun.

How do you stay up with that?

Brewer is is a load.

I mean, they have all the pieces there that I think they're probably one of the best teams, if not the best team in the state.

We're going to have to just try to keep things close and use our athleticism.

OC any tempo or really matchup concerns that concern you the most?

Nope.

They got five players.

We got five players.

We're going to go at it.

All right.

Well, good luck to you tonight.

Thank you.

Okay.

We'll talk to Coach Ben in just a minute.

There's a coach who knows how to win 500 victories in soccer, 500 victories and basketball, gold balls and each.

If anyone's got a plan to slow down these rural pitchers, it's Dave Halligan.

Yeah.

10th State final appearance for coach David Halligan.

The last two years.

This program is 36 and seven and earning their way to two consecutive state championship games.

They're not going to back down from anybody.

They're going to be ready to go here tonight.

Let's take a look at how these teams got there.

Now it's the road to the gold.

And take a look first at both these two teams.

Take a look at those records, two top seeds overall.

But as we mentioned, that difference in points per game is quite something fouled with likes to grind it out.

The tough part is going to be doing that against this Brewer team that scoring 70 points a game that's the tough part.

But they can do that.

The goal ball might be going south here tonight at halftime of the quarter finals against Camden Hills Brewer was behind 29 to 22 coach Ben Goodwin talked about the halftime locker room speech of that game and how important it was to send a message that we can't turn things on and off.

We have to be on all the time.

They came out, blew the doors off Camden in the second half.

They beat Cony by 47, Skowhegan by 37.

They are rolling into this one here tonight.

You look at Falmouth overall, they've held every one of the 34 points that defense has just been absolutely magnificent.

We've already talked a film with Coach Dave Halligan.

Let's spend some time now with Ben Goodwin.

Jim Baynes is with him right now.

I'll tell you, you know, coach good and I we're talking about it's great to get to the state championship game, but now there's a lot of attention on you guys and how do you deal with the attention and stay focused on getting the job done?

You know, I think one of the biggest things we talked to the kids about this time is just to enjoy it.

You know, we our communities really got around us.

They put them up on marquee boards and signs up on them telephone poles and I told the kids just to enjoy these moments, they don't happen very often and and just come and play.

And that's all we're going to need to do.

All right.

Well, you seen the video on Falmouth.

I'm assuming they're.

So what concerns do you have about them tonight?

You know, they're very solid.

They're very, very well-coached.

They'll run their offense till they get any look they want defensively.

They don't really break down very often.

So we're going to try to pick up the tempo a little bit.

Get up and down the floor, hopefully, and hopefully we can play our game.

Well, anybody who's seen you this year, I know you love a running gun year and nothing changes tonight, obviously.

No, nothing changes.

We're going to do what we do.

And, you know, we've been winning that way all season and, you know, hopefully we can do it tonight.

Okay.

Well, good luck to you, but thank you very much.

Back to you guys.

Let's take a look at some of these players on this team.

We'll start with the film with navigators.

They are their McDonald's all star.

And Joe Armstrong, the senior.

He was in double digits in all three games in the tournament.

17 against Mt.

Ararat, 15 against Westbrook ten in the regional final against Marshwood.

The navigators will certainly lean on their senior Joe Armstrong quite a bit tonight.

Yeah, it'll be Judd Armstrong.

It'll be the twin brothers, Lucas and Paul Dilworth as well, leading the charge course.

Falmouth lost six foot seven in center Chris Simonds right before the tournament.

He broke his ankle and he's been out for the rest of the year.

So they really talked about everybody needing to step up and contribute a little bit more to make up for the loss of Chris Simon.

Scott reminds me a bit of North Yarmouth Academy with Angel Huntsman going out.

At least it happened before the tournament.

So that gave Falmouth and Coach Halligan some time to get planned a little bit and kind of come up with a background plan overall.

And they've done well, of course, winning those three straight games.

In fact, seven straight wins entering the state championship game tonight for Brewer, pick your poison.

Brady Saunders, Mr. Main finalists, McDonnell, all star rider, Goodwin McDonnell, all star.

Brock Flagg, Mr. Main Semifinalist McDonald, all star.

This team is plenty deep and those fans for the Bridges appreciate the talent and the depth it has.

Brewer Team five senior starters, seven total seniors on this team.

They've been playing together since they were in second grade.

Coach Ben Goodwin with his son Ryder has been coaching this group of kids since they were in second grade.

Travel teams, everything else all the way up through it was all in preparation for this right here state championship game.

Earl won their first six games this season, suffered their only loss of the season.

45 49 48 to Skowhegan back on February the third.

They got some revenge in how against Scott Egan 72 33.

But I think the score that jumped off the page was the 83 36 win over Cony in the semifinals and attorney record 14 threes in that game they can beat you a lot of ways and that's the problem for Falmouth got to slow them down they can do it but it will not be easy we're going to send it down to the house Mike now and get the rosters for both teams that are for the clock for the class A Boys State championship game between the Southern Maine champions, the Falmouth Navigators, the visitors in the dark uniforms in the northern Maine champions, the Brewer, which is the home team in a White uniforms.

Our officials, our Mr. McGinnis, Mr. Barrabi and Mr. Cole.

The score is David Byrnes.

The timer is Rusty Hopkins.

And the score clock operator is David Turtle Lock.

Before announcing the starters will introduce each team member first for Falmouth number 11 rock home in senior number 12 Charlie Womack Number 14 Billy Burks Number 20 Rock Ode to Patsy Number 22 Henry Stoll Number 24 Jackson Cameron Number 25.

Ezra Hamlin Number 30.

Alex Finley Number 32.

Chris Simmons in number 34.

Davis Man And now for Brewer Number four Braiden Carr Number ten Charles Bridges Number 12 K in Philbrick Number 14 Aiden Davis Number 20 Oh in Fullerton Number 22 Cole Herriman Number 40 Jake Perry Number 42 Titus Philbrick in number 44 Stephen Young's And now fans, let's meet the starters for this game.

That forward for Falmouth a senior number 23 Eli Cowperthwaite that forward from Brewer a senior number 32 brought Flagg that guard performer a senior number one Lucas Dilworth at forward for Brewer a senior number 30 for Cameron Hughes at guard for Feldman a senior number three judge Armstrong at center from Brewer a senior number 24 Ryder Goodwin at guard performance a senior number five Paul Dilworth at guard for Brewer a senior number one at Bernardo that guard for Falmouth a senior number ten Peyton Mitchell then at guard for Brewer a senior number 13 Brady Sanders.

Falmouth is coached by David Halligan Junior Brewer is coached by Ben Goodwin to do exceptional line ups between this witches team in the navigator's Falmouth gold balls in 96 98 99 2010 2013 2016.

They beat Oceanside last time here of course last year ran at a cooper and ace flag loss in home was 43 27 trying to get a bit of a measure of revenge as are the bridges they ran into the flags as well they've never won a gold ball last time they were here in 1988 also a regional title in 1960.

So this means a lot to the folks up in Brewer Maine on the backs of the Penobscot.

I think both these programs were happy to see Cooper and Eastlake pack their bags and head out of state especially Specialist Brewer group of seniors, both group of seniors came back for this one last run at a gold ball here tonight.

Randy Saunders for Brewer they're wearing white they'll attack the basket down to our left perform with us Judd Armstrong they're wearing the road blues they'll attack from left to right we're set to go to class a boys state championship is underway and Brewer which is control of the basketball block flag and a little bit of a hurry and he scores just shows in and we'll get a chance for one more the high basketball IQ played by Brock Flagg after the tip off.

Such excitement you see here in the replay a lot of people just go headstrong with that basket but he has the peace of mind to pump fake get the defender in the air when he gets it in one opportunity.

It is a great move to get Dilworth up and gravity kills in that situation.

Flag at the line that one won't fall the rebound grabbed down by Brewer and they'll get a second chance right a good one on the rebound Neto and underneath but now resets Cameron Hughes in the 34 pass that back now it's Flagg again for that quick first step he's back outside which is might force him to be more patient than there used to when a game like this against former Saunders guarded by Dilworth Rider Goodwin off the glass floor to Goodwin Rider pulls back on his first jumper knocks it down for nothing Brewer through their first possession already down four points but Armstrong Copper thought it was setting a screen Armstrong with Saunders stuck to him Lucas Dilworth wanted to find a cutting Payton Mitchell But the witches had that cut off So Lucas Dilworth will take it himself got himself in the air when he was there with Brock Flagg as well.

I stopped by flag to the fan without fouling near the basket Brock flag always on a mission that passed a little undercooked but I got out there anyway Saunders launching pre and rattles the rim Rebound Grab down by Armstrong Saunders First attempt online Just rattles out Don't let him get hot Go worth 11 points in the regional finals against Marshwood eight Mitchell Now Lucas Dilworth again Paul Dilworth for three It's on target and it's a one point game now Stuart stepped into that three ball with confidence Knocked it down with a splash He's in a three in every single postseason game for the navigators He was the last to touch it Brewer will keep the basketball a lot of emotion early on in this one of course out of the locker room.

But both teams settling in, getting some good looks early on in this one rock flag up high for the witches will take it into the paint basket underneath quick hands by Lucas Dilworth It'll stay with Brewer and the Neto and Paul Dilworth The changes and pleasantries the inbound pass worked underneath a turnaround the shooter's role for wider Goodwin right really points for Goodwin maybe hook with a soft touch and averaging 9.2 rebounds a game he's averaged around six points in the postseason John Armstrong now Armstrong had a little daylight it was cut off Lucas Dilworth back outside the navigator's recalculate all your work Cowperthwaite Mitchell back outside Lucas Dilworth again tried to find a cutting Paul Joe work but his route was cut off and it's Hoover basketball that's when brother tried to go to twin brother their backdoor cut along the baseline couldn't make the cut through those witches lead to a turnover Evan Nero the senior handling the basketball now for Brewer he's number one out there Brock Flagg will get plenty of touches dribbled off his foot but Neto picked it up which is going try again Neto had a huge game against Kony 20 points five threes that shot missed call Dilworth waiting for help He'll bring it up now Mitchell Oh back outside DePaul Dilworth again Looking for some options Payton Mitchell is guarded by Evan Neto Cowperthwaite Call for the ball Went to Lucas Dilworth who attacks the basket and scores Dilworth had the open elbow jumper Gave that up the drive to the basket still scored two.

Smart decision for a guy who was always in double digits with his former team flag for Brewer all called here and logo against the navigator's second foul against fouled Falmouth followed the home once Luke is still where Luke is still where We'll take a look at the film The Basket by Mr. Doyle with a little dribble drive some contact there no call but he gets the deuce Brady Saunders There's some contact and a blocking foul call against Mitchell And he doesn't like that one bit now so be careful with that reaction though and he's excited here in the state final we'll see on the replay the crowd right into the center of the frame and the defender.

It's going to be a blocking call ever neto directly in front of us guarded by Paul Dilworth inbounding the basketball to flag up one point lead as we approach the halfway mark of this first quarter Cameron Hughes net up Hughes will take that shot but doesn't want it this time he was pursued by Paul Dilworth here comes good one stopping in the paint and a foul call that sends Ryder Goodwin to the line veteran savvy there by Goodwin didn't just put the shot up he had space as the defender fell off from there waited for the defender to retain his pick up point contact he got them a line they call for the foul bit off balance a good and recover right opening at the line it Goodwin hits the first team high five points now for Goodwin in the early going high points a rebound in an assist as well Lucas McNally helping us out with some stats as well as the earlier road to the goal as well I mean basketball rankings I mean rankings on Twitter good follow up Armstrong rattles the rim The rebound grabbed down by Brock Black flag back down the courts Cameron Hughes Neto's open swish nothing but the bottom of the night ever Neto in the trailer on the break and he splash through the three ball high point lead for the witches And we're trying to cut into that Mitchell Great strong take look out player control for yeah Mitchell same defender who picked up the blocking foul a couple of minutes ago now I'm trying and again I'm a 50 block charged call because it goes strong going to move here 2.5 the turnover rock like a senior absolutely fearless Billy Burks in the contest now he's a sophomore in number 14 he's an off team hooligans bench for the navigators Saunders in the widget with a five point lead here's Cameron Hughes Saunders trying to cut baseline for us back outside the good 10 no wants to take on Burks just came in flagged down low just off the glass Cameron Hughes see the strength you see around the basket the muscle that up through the defenders four to seven point lead for the witches Burks bounce out to Cowperthwaite Burks handling the basketball now for Falmouth they picked him up Eli Carp with a week's budget Armstrong top with Cowperthwaite finishing the shoe but doesn't have that opportunity here now it's still worth Cowperthwaite sets the screen The witches had that read perfectly Armstrong trying to find some options here into the corner call Dilworth foul thought about taking that but didn't pull the trigger door and a player control foul call against the now the Gators net ordering that one for Brewer.

Such a tough assignment to play defense against his former team found the following to run the offense and run off and run on offense Neto great job there to stay disciplined broke and a player possession hit by chalk by Coleman you see the Brewer fans they are thrilled with what they're seeing so far a seven point lead for their witches.

Steve Halligan will take the first time out of the game Season six of high school quiz show main returns on March 23rd.

Tune in to watch scores of around the state match which then compete for the $1,000 prize.

This season, schools from Fort Kent to South Berwick will battle it out for the championship.

It all starts Thursday, March 23rd at 8 p.m. on Maine Public Television.

We see exactly what we expected so far from both teams.

Yeah, we sure are.

It's the contrast of styles brewer up and downs made Mason outside shots.

Falmouth tries to slow it down on their end, but Brewer has been up to the challenge defensively.

Talk about Brady Saunders and the offensive talent that he has which is incredible.

But he also draws the toughest defensive assignment so far.

He's held Judd Armstrong scoreless through a trying to extend the seven point advantage Saunders outside the narrow, narrow guarded by Dilworth.

Go to enforce it inside it's loose on the floor.

The witches hold on to it somehow.

What a play by Kim Hughes sprawled out in the hardwood.

Coach Ben Goodwin talks about Cam Hughes being that kind of player.

He does the dirty work for us.

He's the unsung hero that time I'll call now by the official Brady Saunders.

One over and something on the ball.

Yeah, he showed the ball.

The official the official put you said my time outs and Paul was just wet and get some sweat on there.

What's going on?

A foreign substance on the ball like Shaquille.

Negro is here is right they've got that taken care of ever Neto starting things again he's picked his dribble up and out comes Dilworth the guard and that's called to work number five Saunders flags up the screen shot blocked Brooks underneath wide are going back outside Saunders for three goes on a Sunday and ready Saunders to go collect the defensive rebounds The kick out He was wide open for the big three on him Heat up on It's hard to stop once it starts under ten point lead for Brewer Falmouth one 16 to go in the quarter Great cutting pass underneath stole the kick out for three the answer short close but no rebound fourth on the floor picked up by the witches Neto what a great return pass with the fall Won't go for huge great ball movement there by the witches Just couldn't get the finish for a minute to go Allie Burks sophomore came in off the bench his navigator's team back outside of Cowperthwaite and he stole of 22 was under the need for too many rural players there for him to attempt a shot Al Dilworth Joe Armstrong now almost got the arrow and 30 seconds to work and underneath Cowperthwaite no shot he'll start again all your work with around the Cowperthwaite screen but again the witches roll off that so well and they've been up to the challenge so far defensively at halfcourt man to man textbook I tend to go the which is crowd trying to put off the navigators they're not fooled Joel with 5 seconds to go he'll stop in pop in slow spot rattles out and that's the way the first quarter ends with Brewer on top and then on Mpb in production of high school basketball on Maine public television is made possible by people like you and by Sheridan Construction a Maine company committed to building on their promise for over 75 years.

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The Maine Public YouTube page You can watch this or any of the other state final games on your mobile device computer or smart TV, anywhere you are to search for Maine public basketball or head to Maine public dot org for the links found with downtown with the basketball star in the second quarter.

Rob Kennedy and Brandon Terrell live from Augusta.

And a great opening shot by Josh Armstrong scoring his first point of the game that might prime the pump a bit for the navigators Armstrong's off the schneid.

So important for and for him to score he had to really work for the flag back outside the Cam Hughes O Neto Now it's Brady Saunders.

He's got a pursuer and Peyton Mitchell Saunders with it again flag sets the screen.

Armstrong came out to pick him up Saunders for a three off the back.

Hughes the rebound.

Brewer will get a second chance Yeah.

What's right a good one outside.

Flag wants a three that's off the iron and two navigators both Armstrong and Dilworth collaborate on that rebound.

That's the start of the second quarter that what needed a bucket on one end a stop on the other.

Now the going to be awful nice for the boys and blue when they've lost the basketball and the witches have it.

Great job by Hughes to avoid the travel they came awfully close we got rid of the basketball Saunders he some daylight kissed off the glass no good still worth the rebound that's Lucas still work their defense by Cowperthwaite defend without fouling Dorothy and Brock Flagg a good battle going on here Joel takes it all the way beat flag couldn't beat Ryder Goodwin though a lot of dribble drives to the basket on both ends the running and play flag underneath passed off Goodwin finger roll No That's battered over onto the foul with bench it'll stay rule basketball Ben Goodwin unlike what he sees so far.

All five starters are in the score book for Brewer as we have the first sub of the game.

Stephen Youngs comes in his sophomore forward so Youngs enters he's played some big minutes off the bench for this Brewer team's flag rattles the rim and drops it down 54 points for Brock Flagg scores the brewer ten point lead balances back in the state championship game and we have to contend with another flag this year.

We're not done that once contributing here as well which is trying to draw another play a control foul on Dilworth not that tight There's Peyton Mitchell out shut Armstrong senior lane found with team looking for the experience propelled him back in this game down ten points Lucas Dilworth little daylight just one draw for him and he the rebound very tough underneath to get a second chance against his which his team yeah there's just no gaps in that brewer defense and there's no offensive rebound opportunities that's why found stuck on seven points Saunders outside Wright are a good one attacks and he met Cowperthwaite underneath who blocked it Lucas dozer took it all the way and scores off the glass yeah found the teeth were that some easier ones in transition they found it really difficult when Brewer gets their halfcourt defense set up a flag outside the cam Hughes now Steven Young's first touch of the basketball for the witches he got blocked in the way by by Paul Dilworth that's the seventh foul called against Falmouth foul the following number five Paul Taylor seeing the replay here no foul over two gets around the defender falls to the floor.

Going to call it on Paul Dilworth that's two and Paul Gilmartin shooting one on one sophomore Stephen Young's the line is a one and one here brewers in the bonus for the rest of the second quarter career has yet to have a foul called on them and the sophomore will get one more can Philbrook coming in for the first time you see him right now number 12 a 66 junior he'll give Ryder Goodwin a rest Young's arms and fires and hits lead his ten again for brewer 000 so Ben Goodwin imploring his charges Keep up the pressure Paul Dilworth incisive pass dunk by Armstrong Good Armstrong Jarrett Garcon beautiful bouncer to get him the ball And he flushes it down of that bounce pass in that play now a steal by the navigator's and Lucas Joel does well to keep it in But he needs a friend here and he has one And Pete Mitchell got to get it over on and beat the ten count and does foul mouth can cut this 26 or less Lucas Dilworth picked his dribble up back outside the Paul Jewell work.

Armstrong being eyeballed by Brady Saunders and can Philbrook little finger roll doesn't drop the rebound Cowperthwaite had it It's out of bounds Last touch play can still get fouled with basketball Falmouth trying to build a little momentum off of that slam dunk by Jared Armstrong We're going to see it here One handed bouncer five Slam Gemma Henry stole into the contest now for the navigators a junior and wears number 22 in blue and yellow Halfway through the second quarter which is by eight and was trying to pull some points off that gap right Paul Dilworth Lucas setting a screen with two which is there they'll just switch up Mitchell into the paint Great pass down low and the shot blocked by Barack Obama still has it Joe Werth baseline off the glass 42 Lucas still work Falmouth so composed they just run offense and run offense Eventually they'll break it down with a good look like Lucas Dilworth did there He's got six Youngs He traveled and found work which is back within six has the basketball again navigator starting to build a little momentum You can feel it down here on the sideline Their student section is feeling it to have a net oh back in for Brewer after getting a West arrest on Beth Goodwin's bench Hayden Mitchell with the basketball talking to Paul Dilworth a little pressure now for Brewer light pressures they back off here's the marquee match up Saunders and Armstrong Saunders won't let Armstrong pass this stolen Armstrong he'll take the three and hits it and he hasn't unders right there with hard on Saunders are blanketed all over John Armstrong He raised and fired and knocked it down anyways and suddenly it's a three point game Brady Saunders stolen John Armstrong a two on one.

Armstrong doesn't need the help, but it won't fall now.

He needs the help and still work.

They have a chance to tying up the line.

How about that actually works out better for the navigators you see here in transition.

First one's no good, Lucas still worth rebound put back and one where we're falling over tremendous fortitude by this experienced Falmouth team.

Follow the one down double digit could Lucas Lucas still hard you see him here can tie to the line see his stats Maine public stats shot missed that's a one point game The brewer had zero turnovers and so deep into the second quarter they now have three turnovers and those that resulted in the points allowed them to close this gap down to one 11 Neto bouncing off Paul Dilworth will contact their referees wisely Stay plenty on Saunders trying to shake defenders Neto back in the corner to Brady Saunders That'll take the shot and he'll go to the line Henry stall call for the foul See the replay Neto drop in the front shoulder to go around The defender on the portal tries to pick Picks up a little harm straight back there at the line The five John Senior trying to increase his lead As you see the main public stats three points So far shooting four No for an answer no second shots.

Second verse same as the first it's a three point lead for Brewer five for seven at the line and the early going here for Brewer Jarred Armstrong patiently waiting wants to tie it in almost us rebound fight for loose on the floor he's got it it's brewer basketball referees will talk about this first indication and they'll overturn it down with we'll keep it alive with the referees we'll talk with each other and the referee with the best look that nice job they're going to get it right they come together talk about it overturn the call found with basketball here on the baseline Paul Dilworth in bounds Josh Armstrong he travels and Brewer gets the ball back Armstrong five points here on the board in the second quarter but again Brady Saunders making him work really hard for everything down there just an extra step traveling violation of a net up a little more tense in here now with a three point game approaching half time.

One 37 to go right.

A good win put back one fall Hughes has it though they'll try again the three on the way rattles out knocked out of bounds as touched by the witches.

Another stop for Falmouth Thomas defense really putting the clamps on here in the second quarter just one field goal made by Brewer in the second was the morning coach Steve hooligans liking this is the bread and butter this now the gators team they lock you down one 15 to go in the half navigator's good pull closer or tie in this possession all Dilworth and Cameron Hughes battle and Lucas Dilworth here's Armstrong one minute to go Armstrong guarded by Saunders he telegraphed that pass but Dilworth alertly picks it up and contact there no Paul in the attempted player control draw by Hughes Hamilton just keep on playing with 43 seconds to go Brewer has the arrow if that comes into play a Falmouth was down by ten coming into this quarter they've got it back to a one possession game they say we're going to be happy going into halftime here with the last shot and I'm trying to kill as much of this clock as they can 27 seconds to go and love to tie things off after being down double digits before they head into the halftime break go work 17 to go Armstrong forced back outside by Saunders navigators will attack now with 8 seconds to go Armstrong 4 seconds lost the handle got fouled that's just the second fouled all against the which is so fouled with will inbound and not shoot it looks like Falmouth will accomplish getting the last shot of the quarter here we'll cross over we will go there on the baseline inbound 2 seconds let's see if you're going to show to the flag is out with two fouls Steven Young's will take his spot for the next 2.2 seconds.

Paul Dilworth of the basketball inbounding gets rid of it to Lucas Dilworth it won't fall at the buzzer and brewer holds on to a three point lead at the break.

It's halftime and I got stuff last state championship on MTV and production of high school basketball on Maine public television is made possible by people like you and by expect the unexpected at the University of Maine at Presque Isle committed to providing an affordable education with a personalized experience full of discovery and innovation.

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Learn more at Chin Broadcom Coastal auto parts selling Napa auto parts since 1981 with 29 locations across the state proudly supporting student athletes from across Maine The new season of high school quiz show Maine is almost here.

Tune in at 16 teams from Fort Kent, the South Berwick battle for the championship and the $1,000 grand prize for the schools school's project graduates match wits with some of Maine's best and brightest students in a statewide competition.

Let's see how well you do with our viewers Question of the Week.

Join me today for Season six of high school quiz.

Show me back here at halftime in Augusta, a three point lead for the brewer which is 21 18.

As we head into our sportsmanship awards presentations, want to thank the folks at Fame, the finance authority of Maine for sponsoring these segments.

We're about to recognize some great student athletes of the student athletes and all high school students at home.

Did you know this free money available to help pay for education and training beyond high school.

Even if you're not sure what you want to do just follow the FAFSA file now to maximize your aid.

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Turn it over now to the house, Mike to honor the Sponsorship Award Winners Association.

It is an honor to present sportsmanship banners in boys and girls basketball.

This past season, each team was asked to select an opponent that they felt was most deserving of receiving a sportsmanship award.

Each school selected to receive this recognition has displayed respect, fair play, honesty, and the love for the game.

We are pleased to recognize in Boys Class C South the Wolverines of Wiscasset High School here tonight to receive the award.

Our coaches Rick Larabee and Brian James, along with players, is small Martinez, Jabbar, Garrett, Corey Ricker, Dylan Akers, Mason Clark, Alex, Richard Spencer Smith, Pinconning, Deonte Dawkins, and Manager Abby Black.

Ben and congratulations to the Wolverines of Wiscasset High School We are pleased to recognize in Boys Class a North, the Tigers of Garden Area High School here tonight to receive the award.

Our head coach Aaron Tolman, assistant coaches Jordan Harrison and Kadeem Edge, along with players Brady Atwater, Caleb Barnes, Chase Burgess, Hunter Burgess, Brady Davidson, Cody Dingwall, Brayden Elliott, Dylan Elliott, Zach, Kristen.

Nick became Brady Peabody, Anthony Rivera and Colby Mute.

Buddy Congratulations to the Tigers of Gardena Area High School.

Congratulations to Wisconsin, Andrew Gardner.

I love seeing those teams honored for sportsmanship is a huge thing and they get honored here at center court and a state championship game that is outstanding.

Jim Barnes is going over to try to catch the guard.

The Tigers will see if we can talk to him in a bit if he gets the basketball.

We'll stay here for now until we find that out as well.

Chatter about the borough witches and families navigators, a 21 18 game here at the half and we will go to that ten point lead and Falmouth came clawing back.

Yeah.

Brewer first quarter went just about as well as it could have for the witches and then they switched places in the second quarter second quarter went about as well as it could have for the navigators so they've got one apiece.

You see here the statistics at halftime Falmouth shooting a little better a field goal percentage brewer some fewer turnovers.

Falmouth was finally able to turn Brewer over a couple of times late in that second quarter when they made their run to get back to within a one possession game.

What stands out to me on that docket is the free throw disparity I think the witches did is they really didn't allow families to get to the line, just that one attempt overall and the running gun has been working but I really like what Falmouth did in that second quarter.

They were able to slow the witches down a little bit as they came closer and closer and closer and got themselves back in this game.

Yeah, and so far just three players have scored the Dilworth Brothers and Joe Armstrong for Falmouth.

I wonder if they can find somebody else to step up and add a couple of points to the total here in the second half.

On the other side for Brewer, you've got six different players who are already in the book.

That's their style of game and they're going to have to regain their form here in the third after only putting up six points in the second quarter.

Let's set it down to Jim Barnes.

He's down at sideline and we'll send it to him right now.

Yeah.

All right.

Thank you very much.

Right.

Coach Tillman, the Gardner Tigers are champions of sorts in a sportsmanship this year.

Got us here to sit before their Coach Tillman.

First of all, congratulations.

I tell you, when you're a coach, you got to deal with all sorts of personalities.

What's it like to have someone who steps up in the sportsmanship?

Does that make the job easier or is it a different challenge?

Really?

Yeah, this this crew did an awesome job this year.

I'm blessed as a coach to have these young gentlemen in the program and just the type of care who they display year in year out there about one another, which makes my job much easier.

All right.

What's been what's it mean to you as far as to just just the honor itself?

Is there something beyond us that you can kind of take with you going on?

Just just a lot of pride.

Like, I'm really proud of these guys in and buying into our message.

And like I said, it just makes our job much easier as coaches and it makes it fun, which is key.

All right, gentlemen, going to ask you, are we going to do this very quickly, stepping up?

What is Coach Tillman's message about sports to me, to you guys?

And what do you take to heart about that?

I think we take our if we play with sportsmanship, it'll show it to the other coaches and the refs.

It we're not here to mess around good.

Gentlemen, we're wants to step it up and say how great Coach Tillman has been and predicting this or not predicting it, but making a good sport to support what happened here.

At the beginning of the season, the meeting with everybody they're trying to coach brought up the fact that the ways one of his goals was to win this championship award, the sportsmanship award, so it was very nice of us to bring it down, bring it back.

So we haven't had one in a long time.

All right.

We're going to give you your names real quickly down the line.

First of last name, go, Colby Moody, Cody Dingwall.

Kayla Barnes, Hunter Burgess, Nick, Erika, Zak, Kristen Brady, Brady, Peacock, Chase Burgess, Dillon, Elliott.

Braden Elliott.

All right, guys.

Congratulations about that.

And hopefully we'll see you more maybe next year and we'll see.

That's the goal, right?

We want to get here.

So a good year next year.

We're playing here next year.

Absolutely.

Very good year, guys.

Go to Tigers sponsorship champions right there.

Guys, back to you.

Love the confidence of the Gardner Tigers and coach Aaron Tillman, the former Tiger himself who played in a state championship game.

We're here at the half.

We'll step aside, come back the second half action with a brewer which is leading the found with navigators.

We'll step aside for a break.

And Maine public television production of high school basketball on Maine Public Television is made possible by people like you and by five county credit union serving members since 1956 committed to delivering convenience through technology branch access and local service.

The University of Maine at Augusta committed to providing a quality, affordable education online and in-person with two campuses and eight centers statewide.

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Dead River Scum.

Hammond Lumber Company with 22 locations across Maine and New Hampshire serving professional contractors and Do-It-Yourselfers since 1953 Starting the second round underway here in the second half raw basketball with a three point lead.

We've switched directions the witches and those home whites starting possession here in the second half.

Rob Kennedy along with Brandon Terrell a class AA state championship game 2023 Brewer the basketball underneath that's right a good one kicked outside and Neto Goodwin spinning around here player control foul on there that's a good call from the official here on this side Goodwin wrapped his elbow around you see here on the replay wrap around right there to gain advantage on the defender off the foul good call from number one he like Harper on defense Hey great position on the witches senior families who the ball for the first time in the second half Ayton Mitchell is guarded by brewers Evan Neto Mitchell back outside Armstrong set a little mini screen but Neto ran through that Lucas Dilworth again Cowperthwaite or just through that player control foul for foul Dilworth shooting for the tie and we're level at 21 and in his face Paul good work didn't mind knocked it down anyway the navigators have come all the way back May ten point out see how the witches respond to some adversity here a little pressure being put on them Saunders the kick outs but went outside pass that off to Hughes but he was lost the handle Falmouth can take the lead here Josh Armstrong Tom Strong couldn't penetrate he had Saunders there Luke is still work surveying the scene for the navigators into the paint spin shoots and fouled with Leeds quick five nothing run to start the second half four foul for Falmouth over Dave Halligan said at halftime in the locker room his work for his navigators through her right to tie it back up It won't fall for black flag and a foul called in the rebound against the witches.

A few quick fouls on Ryder Goodwin here in the third quarter Keep an eye on that brewer follow it again for Ryder Goodwin Spin move by Brock Flagg into the middle mobile number can get it Brewer from over gone cold which is will no doubt try to shoot through this 21.2 This juncture is an awful low total for this brewer team so Falmouth is getting the type of game they want Lucas Dilworth going to add to a two point advantage a shot roll drop great fight for the rebound well get Lucas go work on the foul and follow No one the replay still work personal Lucas still where he takes it he tries to get his own miss on right over the back foul on Lucas Dilworth It's going to be his third and he stole into the game That's why Henry stole just came in There's Cameron Hughes where did inbounds which is down to unfamiliar territory they didn't trail much in the regional tournament didn't trail at on their last couple of games Brady Saunders and on Saunders playing pass for Brewer Cam Hughes the bounce pass the finish slider Goodwin driver Goodwin the textbook offense there dribble drive into the middle drawer the defense little dish off to the big who finishes 42 all locked up at 23 Armstrong on the baseline couldn't shake Brady Saunders Payton Mitchell he's got the ball the senior for Falmouth Armstrong cut to the hole the witches had that played well and a trying plan B here plan B it looks like it might work it's not going to result in points yet but it will send Payton Mitchell to the line after he's fouled by Goodwin in the first half.

Brewer went deep into the second quarter before they had no foul on them Evans already the third one here in the second half Dribble drive Payton mystery Nice pump fake Get the defender in the air line shooting They got narrow for that It was never think that might be a case of mistaken identity Yeah That's the first on Meadows The witches don't mind Payton Mitchell's buried the first one He can restore the two point lead for his navigators and does oh with bench excited as they've come back to take a two point lead over the basketball Roc flag into the paint and was blocked shot Armstrong at the pawn that little bit too much one on one right now from brewer not enough ball movement got to get the ball moving Armstrong just suckered him in Armstrong on the other end won't catch He was about to celebrate the referee broke the bad news he had started celebrating already on the floor Joe Armstrong all kinds of contact on his way to the hoop and plant control offensive foul play groups in and takes it so the celebration started to someone had to break the bad news to him he'd been calling for an offensive foul first on Armstrong block flag is fearless underneath no no no ox let that foul calling us Payton Mitchell got wrapped up with Brady Saunders Payton Mitchell pushed his way through that black flag screen 3000 No 23 on Mitchell as well on this little number of a free no accent Mitchell Dilly Burks back in the sophomore off the bench Brewer trying to get back even or take the lead flag in the paint He traveled to Willie Burks came in and made an impact defensively but up to seven turnovers now by the witches They had zero in the first quarter when they jumped out for that 15 point quarter see flag here gets in the middle just defenders all over him and he drags that pivot foot Billy Burks 14 was stuck to him like Luke Hey you can say that about these common defenders for the last two quarters and a two point lead is Burks with the basketball almost had it stolen but he recovered and was starting again with John Armstrong Armstrong's one hand pass underneath Oh what a great finish by Cowperthwaite Eli Cowperthwaite first two points of the game for Cowperthwaite Saunders ends that off to flag off the glass for two.

The response from the witch witness a 61 senior nice touch from the right hand on the left side.

We were back within to a little pressure here.

Brooks fights it off for a Falmouth got Armstrong taking on Saunders.

Saunders stopped him and almost stole it But he picks up the foul That's for now.

On Brewer in the second half Hope you're enjoying this game tonight Falmouth and Brewer Finn No United States around the world.

46 states, nine countries.

Welcome our viewers in Germany in the Netherlands as well that are watching a good one here in Augusta love that.

In the years Maine public's been doing these games, the reach is now global.

Yeah, that's pretty incredible.

Joe Armstrong over the top toward Cowperthwaite.

He couldn't save it.

Falmouth, a little more pick and roll action here in the second half.

Yeah, that was an adjustment Coach Halligan talked about at halftime.

It's been effective for a couple of buckets here.

You see the pass, try to go over the top and just off the fingertips and concentrate out of bounds.

Flagg was going to try to grab that.

He yanked his hand away like he touched the hot stove.

Good thing to hear, Saunders.

No sat up there for a moment, but fell on the wrong side of the cylinder.

Brewer still missing that shooting touch that they had in the first quarter.

Just ten points since Amos scored 14 threes against Kony here.

It's not falling tonight, but it falls for Paul No word no word foul just got a four point lead seven in the third quarter for Paul Deal worth ten in the game Saunders outside backed up by Paul Dell work two and a half to go in the third quarter flat a no look past a huge no excuse me that was right or Goodwin wouldn't call it was rejected by Cowperthwaite but the foul calls the replay underneath the big boys banging down the fighter Goodwin collects it for personal foul on the kinds of harm I can't perform Not for the faint hearted right when he's here tonight Ryan shooting Cowperthwaite made the block a foul was called on Billy Burks and a free throw for Goodwin won't drop which his usual shooting touches abandoned them and I think a big part of the reason why is this navigator's defense not coincidence and with does this two most teams know free throws hits whose ball it's found us coach Ben Goodwin taking a bite out of his sweater over there on the sideline after that call he wanted the ball back for his wishes on four point lead and found with can extend it yeah Joel makes the time line tried Armstrong Armstrong switched up Goodwin's on him now Brady Saunders again with Neto trying to assist into the corner Paul Duckworth launches his Oh it's a three ball state outside the three point line 13 points now for Paul largest lead of the game for the navigators are up by seven and a foul called Armstrong I believe we'll see if the three fingers come up the foul mouth has dominated the third quarter led by Paul Donovan follow no point in this quarter on a game high 13 team from over 55 figures not three Paul Dilworth guilty of the foul brewer needs a bucket fouled with this really stifled them here in the third and in particular Grady Saunders still stuck on just three points those came in the first quarter net oh back iron but there's a goalie up there for Fulmer here's a three on the way that rattles up a rebound from Flagg Here's the putback blocked McGrath Flagg will head to the line with the toss Saunders just a little off that one didn't go down He had a fantastic look at it off the kickout and then Brock Wagg working down 22 pump fake personal foul Make up some contact Go to the foul Over six Brady saw 4.9% three point land in the regular season and hasn't been that way tonight.

Big free throw from block flag Yeah know Charlie we'll lock in for the first time a junior number 12 we see him right now just entering and exiting your picture flag gets them both necessary free throws and the switches team it's now down five and a full time out called here high school quiz show main season six is about to begin 16 teams from across main competing to see who will be this year's champion and bring home the $1,000 prize.

Tune in for the season premiere on Thursday March 23rd at eight right here on Maine Public Television.

The season five champ which is playing right here tonight and who they beat their arch rival Bangor.

You can see how well you know Maine history and trivia with the bureau question of the week.

Again that starts on March 23rd well back to back episodes of the first four weeks it's going to start off with Brunswick and Saint Dom's that's an 8:00 Thursday.

The 23rd Gould Academy takes on Brewer winning team $1,000 for their school's project graduation well witches are everywhere on Maine public television.

You're playing for a gold ball.

They won the prize last year on quiz show trying to defend their crown even sweeter when you beat Bangor if you're a Bruins no doubt about it any time you can beat the Bangor Rams up there the battle of the Penobscot River seasons, the witches want to add a gold ball to their trophy K's first one in school history.

See if they can bring it home up I-95 tonight.

Right now, Bangor is not even on their radar.

It's a Falmouth navigators add to the which is a concern with and for good reason.

Thomas leads by five with a basketball.

Billy Burks He's been good here in the third, especially defensively since he's come in the game.

For the navigators stole loss in the backcourt depth to call off his own foot.

That's what I thought was waiting to see what the referee so and he was right there.

Yep the big turnover here out of the timeout brewer down by five needs a bucket to stop the team so hard to play once they have a lead but they're deliberate pace they're so used to it that's their bread and butter and are in the last minute of the third quarter.

We're trying to make this a one possession game.

Saunders got fouled and that's the seventh foul against Falmouth.

So this could be a key turning point in the game right now is the witches number we at the line every subsequent foul for the remainder of this game after a foul.

I'm a fan.

You really have to be happy with how this third quarter has gone.

But the one developing storyline you have to keep an eye on are those two fouls and individual fouls.

A couple of starters with three fouls Grady Saunders, not the guy you want there.

If you're a foul mouth in class, a free throw champion, 89.2% of the line this season.

In the old adage for a shooter, who's not shooting well, go to the foul line, see a couple go through from the stripe, see if I can get you going.

Drives the pump a little bit.

Subs for Falmouth.

Peyton Mitchell back in.

Lucas Dilworth as well.

Paul Dilworth joining that trio.

But a full court press here from the witches.

There's a one possession game Falmouth with a lead and the arrow with 54 seconds remaining in this third quarter all Dilworth Lucas still work block flag defending for the witches Armstrong cutting down the sideline now he attacks almost knocked out of Cowperthwaite hands he saved it knocked out of bounds they have a net oh it'll stay fouled with basketball the style of play that Falmouth wanted down in the thirties and twenties right now they love to keep it in the forties here by the end of the game he told Dave Halligan.

It's 32 29 late in the third he would be thrilled yeah he'll sign up for that every time.

Oh 50 seconds to go you know found what can kill a great deal of time looking for the last shot they may do that again here as they did going into halftime shot Armstrong weaving with Dilworth flag taking a look stuck right to the found with senior there was a little freedom Now he'll shoot Snow got his own rebound great aggressiveness and he hits it Does it count on the floor mats on the floor oh wait what happened?

The referees will talk about this I'm not sure what the call is here exactly we have on the rebound foul on the floor so it's going to be shooting 1111.

Oh we count on you to count it.

All right counterterror shot while on number 24 writer Goodwin personal file number three took a while to get the call number five because they went across we couldn't see through the player's fouls and wider Goodwin basket is going Lucas Dilworth Lucas don't count the basket again they it a six point game with this free throw everyone needs a shot at it here in 6 seconds on the other end try to close this lead down a baker's dozen now for Dell worth 13 points his playoff high is 16 in the quarter finals against Mt.

Ararat he's going to double digits every single game though for his navigators who lead by six with just under six ticks the clock left in the third there comes a little token pressure that got to hurry.

4 seconds to go he accelerates he shoots it's blocked at the buzzer and found Smith will start with the basketball up six as we head to the fourth here in Augusta on Maine public television production of high school basketball on Maine Public Television is made possible by people like you and by coastal auto parts selling Napa auto parts since 1981 with 29 locations across the state proudly supporting student athletes from across Maine, Sheridan Construction, a Maine company committed to building on their promise for over 75 years Dead River Company committed to reliably delivering propane and heating oil to homes and businesses throughout Maine.

Dead river scum.

The University of Maine at Augusta committed to providing a quality, affordable education online and in-person with two campuses and eight centers statewide while driving.

Rob Kennedy, Brandon Terrell back here with you in Augusta.

And as we stepped aside for breaks and extracurricular activities and a technical foul called against the film with navigators Brewer hit both free throws the down 35 31.

Now you don't want to do is to give a team clawing back into the game a gift and the navigators just did.

We'll see how that plays out as you roll down the stretch here in the fourth quarter there was a pick block to end the third quarter by Eli Cowperthwaite.

And as they were walking off the court and we were going to commercial, there were some words exchanged there is calling for a technical foul.

Brewer knocked down both foul shots and we're down to a four point game.

However, the week's challenge was a second foul fell foul with had the earth but it's pointing their direction but yeah, the technical that's right.

Thank you.

They still have the arrow, but with the technical brewer has the basketball and don't see the technical.

At the end of a quarter and a walk.

Saunders off the iron and top work await the rebounds.

Still a two possession game with Falmouth in charge they lead by four all Dilworth Payton Mitchell Lucas still worth here alternating defense and let's go forward Chance big possession of the crowd here knows it it's a great crowd boisterous here in Augusta got Armstrong the McDonald's all star stops.

No good great position for the rebound by block flag and go rookie landed on top and that Wilson's oh which is on the line and also it's the fourth foul on Lucas Dilworth development.

About the fans is this fourth foul on Lucas Dilworth see it here in the rebounding action he just gets stuck in the air just wrong place wrong time it couldn't disengage from Brokeback was even a situation where he's really trying to do that he wasn't overaggressive he just had to fight gravity and lost as one usually does right.

Isaac Newton's undefeated he's got gold balls in his trophy case.

He'll go to Apple anyway.

Well he gets the first it's a three point game as Ben Goodwin looks on from the Brewer sideline.

Flag, one on a to the rebound yanked down by Cowperthwaite found his lead three brewer with a little momentum here and it's the navigator still with their noses in front and Restall Armstrong deferring to Cowperthwaite Cowperthwaite to work lost it's right over here all right to Europe I want to shot it out a missed I would have missed if I was a lot closer to wouldn't have met all day worth inbound it three point lead for film with every possession big down the stretch one a no look pass and the block made on a foul call and we stole was fouled and the juniors striding to the line Big moment here for storm at no point so far in the game is going to get a chance for his first little dump off flag still goes up strong or three no there's no easy buckets in the paint in here tonight in this fourth quarter everything is Jones hard 31 Brock flag six on the witches Big spot for Henry stole junior he gets one more Just the fourth foul shot of the night for film it coming up excuse me fifth foul shot of the night They've made three or four so far oh, one out of two that's a big one though he's a two possession game once again Saunders Flagg couldn't go inside.

Josh Armstrong made sure that Neto right a good one, setting things up again.

Clark trying to force his way in by sheer will.

And the navigator say, forget it.

Well, I will try the right side of the cutback.

Just no way inside.

Great defense.

One way around that is a three won't go they'll put back just go block log and it's a good game.

They start by flag there.

Do not come down with that and then go back up and go right off the tip.

Get the foot back for two.

Don't waste that precious second all still work by the sideline coach Elgin wanted a foul didn't get it.

Armstrong locking horns with Brady Saunders all stolen away in the pass too far for Cowperthwaite The flag which is gone tie or take the lead Saunders back outside oh that tension building here and a goal style love it helped flag the tie up No rebound Cowperthwaite flags stolen away flag the kickouts are reset for brewer Saunders stops at the elbow and hits and we're tied at 36 elbow is pure from Brady Saunders He's missed a couple from long range says let me put the ball on the floor get inside and he knocks down the jumper We're going down to the wire in this game you can just feel it when the goal ball on the line a foul call against Brewer And that's their seventh rule follow number 13 Cameron are shooting the rest of the way free throws will go a long way in deciding this game is Devon here take a look at the former student section Paul Gilmore three fouls on Brock Flagg Oh sorry they change that now that was on Hughes first on Hughes there's Paul Dilworth Look at that deep breath Got it.

Talk about handling the pressure.

Thousands of eyes upon him here.

Thousands more watching around the world.

And Paul Dilworth shut it all out to put his team on top and make it a two point lead and does 15 now for Paul Dilworth game high if fascinating 4 minutes and 53 seconds just watch these teams firing punches every trip down the floor.

Punch and counterpunch and it's big boy basketball underneath the basket to the classic brewing here in Augusta Saunders outside Neto which is have not been all to pop those three is tonight's all right get down low back outside from Hughes the flag fly I can't shake Lucas still work net up flag again I can't get inside Neto for the lead no and the rebound fought for and grab by Payton Mitchell for Falmouth And the brewer hasn't made a three pointer since the first quarter Saunders and Neto both knocked one down in that first frame Nothing since from long range if you offer anyone a bath of the witches wouldn't hit a three in the second, third or the fourth so far halfway through we had a lot of takers on that one and that's the way it's gone.

Credit the defense of the boys in blue and yellow and they've stolen it away.

Defense by Goodwin and he can tie it up but he won't Cowperthwaite defensively it keeps his team on top by two.

Those are the battles under the basket on both ends.

Still worth a pass down low that won't fall.

Peyton Mitchell and a shot altered by Brock Flagg who was charging back.

No easy shots in the middle.

You got to work for your points here tonight.

That's why there's only been 74 of them between the two teams.

Maybe 76 not yet them all go work he shoots it's player control.

William looked at each other to call we'll see it here Brandon Brock flag again anticipates sets up takes it to the frame Paul offensive foul first fearless flag underneath 32nd 32nd timeout called here by the witches three 18 to go broadcast the Maine state high school basketball championships to be made possible by members since 1979.

Thank you to the tens of thousands of the people who help make this annual tradition available to fans around the world for free to show your support for basketball in Maine public television become a member hit the Maine public dot org and click the big red donate button and thanks very much Jan Brewer band jammin on the bass hoping that adds a little bit of luck and a little bit of hype to this team to get themselves back on top they trail the ball to the second half as the navigators came back and they lead by 20402. game here which is basketball both teams in the bonus letter want to make them earn it on the floor not let them add them on to the line at the line, you know, handling the basketball.

There's Saunders.

He's been kept cold I don't know with us he's Saunders again outside Ayton Mitchell lined up with him have net up you he's been quiet and he'll stay quiet player control drawn this time by the navigators who can play at that game and we'll see it Payton Mitchell this time I believe a player control now Mitchell cam again takes it to the three mile number ten balls to the floor picks up the offensive foul.

Second foul now on Cam Hughes worth taking his time under three to go a two point game every possession massive now you're that's Lucas DePaul Paul has it here Josh Halligan wants a timeout 60 seconds chess match has become fascinating between these two coaches you have the marquee match up Brady Saunders Judd Armstrong going after each other on both ends we're down to just two and a half minutes remaining.

Brewer is trying to get their first gold ball in school history film is trying to add to their trophy case doesn't get much better than this.

Rob when found with last time put a ball in the trophy case it was very similar situation.

They took on Oceanside and held the Mariners to 28 point scorers.

They scored 59 in that contest but it was typical found with basketball they did it with defense and that's what frustrated the which is so far tonight way below their average brewer scoring 70 points the game most of the season that was their average 36 tonight and he found the defense has stepped up as they usually do they only allowed 41.3 points a game now Falmouth has gotten the game that they wanted to play here tonight but that doesn't mean they're going to win it.

Brewer looking to scrap and claw and fight their way and win Falmouth's basketball game and trying to conjure up a spell for her team.

It's like Peyton Mitchell with the basketball brewing up.

Something in the cauldron over there.

I think bubble, bubble, toil and trouble hit a three pointer on the double and they getting the ball back first.

Hard to do with Paul Jewell Worse now Mitchell doubles back to Paul Dale Work No trying to steal it away Two 20 to go and they'll get Neto for that and fouled with go to the line will be their last one and no one in the game that old personal foul number three let's see if this works out in Brewer's favor of the navigators punish the hand Jeff the foul mouth of the style of play are able to possess the ball for such a long possession and they're used to it they practice it every day they executed every game so this is comfortable for them.

This is right where they want things.

Brewer has to feel frustrated with the slow pace.

They want to go go now.

They have a chance off the Miss and that's the last one and one.

Everything else is too short for both teams.

Neto Grady Saunders, what what a time would be for him to heat up.

Neto trying to attack the basin.

He's doubled foul on the open man down low shot no rebound which is try again Neto and underneath And the chance for a Saunders three He wants to reset with one 45 to go have a Neto not shy about driving block flat Saunders for the lead turns out to be almost a nice pass to Cam Hughes but ripped away by Cowperthwaite he has been big on the defensive glass Eli Cowperthwaite Saunders in the witches couldn't find a good one couldn't find out a good open look and now fouled with the basketball and a two point lead Oh I was going let some air out of this game one 17 to go We'll call the foul on Cam Hughes That's too I believe on Hughes when it's a two shot foul And there's Paul Dilworth at the line again a follow number 34 Cameron Hughes three excuse me on Hughes not to now it's a navigator casting spells and hoping it helps Paul Dilworth restore a three point lead Still not the time in this game with AT&T panic once they get the ball back clutch shot from the senior he's got one more is big to restore a two possession lead and he does north recovers from a miss last time to hit two big ones here and Ben good one wants time out and they're bouncing over there the fans in blue anticipating a goal for the still one 16 to go and the bridges have the basketball big possession coming up coach Darryl yeah the gold ball is sitting right across the most over there on the scorer's table both teams can see it in their respective huddles they know what they're playing for here over the last one minute and 16 seconds Falmouth with a four point lead everywhere with the basketball they're drawing up coach Goodwin's working the great sport over there in the time out trying to work up something good for an open shot and that's what they're playing for the prize that lives on forever in the trophy case just got a bunch of them 86 87 97, 98 99 and three more than the 2000 tenths brewer.

They want to make some space for one.

Well, they've got some work to do.

Brady Saunders stuck on nine points.

He has just two field goals in this game, which is unheard of for him this year.

He's racked up points in a big way.

Mr. Maine basketball finalist just announced today Brady Saunders is in the final three.

He can come up with some magic here.

And the last 76 seconds, Falmouth has the arrow, by the way, if that makes a factor in this game, we'll see if it does.

Some pressure now from the navigator's clock rolling at one 14 brewer does not have time to waste here in this possession don't need a three but they do need to score huge in under need and a chance at the line for the witches there's Reiner Goodwin points are still hard to come by against his former team rider Goodwin had a good look at it while a number 23 loss to handle a little bit going up to high off the window and get it one of the hand one there Eli Cowperthwaite third foul line is going for Goodwin he's got one more good I think Brewer will bring full court pressure here on to make big shot by Goodwin he gets it and up there pressuring quick inbound to Paul work from a ten second count to start it go work heading to the time line he gets a cross Moss lost the handle almost stolen there as well.

Lucas still work at timeout called the foul was a foul boy Brewer almost had the turnover twice almost possession and foul by the skin of their teeth maintains possession and goes to the line for two still work at the line so Paul Dewhurst hit some big free throws up but his brother Lucas it's his turn at the line that's been he hits them both It's a two possession game again he gets one more effort is going to get it back here if they can get a defensive rebound and a one possession game they don't need the three.

If they go down by three here still lots of time left a huge fork in the road to work gets the roll.

Me point deficit for Brewer first good shot Brady Saunders immense pressure and tension here in the Agassiz Civic Center Roc flag Saunders kept that in play timeout called by coach Ben Goodwin over on the brewer bench.

30 seconds down by three points 35 seconds left if you can get a quick two that's going to be okay because that will allow you to bring full court pressure but if you're open for a three pointer of the way Brewer shoots it that'll be okay too which is I've been called from three they still have time to heat up and it would be a massive shot if they can drain it here, I'll miss.

Well, families can't start celebrating yet.

Still too much time left.

Still a one possession game.

One would take a giant step toward the goal ball for the navigators.

If they can make a stop on this brewer possession, you have to think Brady Saunders is going to get the ball in his hands here with a chance to be a playmaker to set up a shot for himself or a teammate.

And you got to think Judge Armstrong in the marquee matchup is going to have him we'll see who can come out on top.

Cam Hughes is the man who inbound the basketball for Brewer tension.

You only get to the final of a state championship game.

That's what we have here and really have had here all fourth quarter 33 seconds to go Brock flag penetrates.

Brewer needs probably a three now, though.

They've taken some time off the clock will take the two instead and Goodwin hits it one point game for the press control right away.

Time is ticking blocking foul call.

Brewer thought it was player control, but instead Paul Dilworth will make a long walk to the free throw line.

Here it is a smart play to try it by the senior rider Goodwin there was initiation by the offensive player there but it's going to be a blocking foul.

Going to have two shots.

Ben Goodwin had a good look at that for the rule, which is he wanted to go the other way but instead fouled with a chance to extend their lead once again.

But then out of the woods by any stretch here, even if the navigators make them both.

Right.

So again, this.

All right.

We're going to Coach Goodwin.

His son Ryder tries to get the charge, doesn't get the call.

Looks like I was just the referee's timeout.

There wasn't a coach's timeout.

Knicks Paul Dilworth think about it a little bit, but he has shut out the pressure so far.

Most of the time here in the fourth one.

It's deafening now in Augusta, one more for the senior brewer will have 16 seconds left if he hits it.

Got to get ready to rebound here.

Both teams miss.

Well it's a 34 it's a miss which means just need one our regular baskets.

Well win it for them.

Saunders, 9 seconds to go the conclusion here in the ghost up flag underneath it's gone wider.

Goodwin still 3 seconds to go 2.7 seconds Falmouth calls timeout Royal celebrating, but there's still time for navigators.

The wild celebration underway on the Brewer sideline.

Brock flag is way down here on the other end of the court.

Coach has to go collect them as there's still almost 3 seconds left is plenty of time Falmouth plenty of time to get the ball off the court for a shot here.

And if they do get the shot away and it's a foul, remember, it's a two shot situation as both teams have committed more than ten fouls here.

Oh, what a finish in Augusta.

You couldn't ask for a better game than what we have and what these boys have tweeted us to and tweeted you two as well.

Watching wherever you're watching tonight.

This is what Maine High School basketball is all about.

Listen to it in here.

If you're Coach Goodwin, though, you want your players to take a deep breath here and to think, hey, no foul you cannot foul in the situation you have to challenge without fouling Season comes down to 2.7 seconds after go the length of the court you see the referee underneath the basket Payton Mitchell will it be a witches goal ball with the navigators casting their own spell?

We're about to find out the inbounds Armstrong gets it away.

It's Josh Front room.

Look, the witches first.

Go on, Bones.

No history, regulations, words never said before the rule, which is our state champs.

You can say it now.

Look at that scene.

Jubilation for the people wearing white, orange and black, devastation for the navigators.

See Rider Goodwin running over to hug his dad.

So much time and sacrifice between those two spent on the hardwood together over the years.

All in search of this right here.

That feeling on the sidelines embrace between father and son is they're about to play the first game ball back to Brewer.

Then we stole one point and really Brewer aptly named birthday as far as their nickname because this win was magical.

They had to come back at the end they had to find a way to defeat this navigators defense they were able to do it on a putback well under 5 seconds to go to win by one Falmouth got the game that they wanted here tonight.

It was in the forties, the low forties.

They had a lead.

It's so hard to come back against this team.

But we were dug in, got defensive stops, got points when they needed Brady Saunders.

Mr.

Mean Basketball Final was held to just nine points.

It doesn't matter.

They got the gold ball.

Stephen Young's being hoisted by AP.

Aiden Davis and a moment these players have dreamed about since they were young boys climbing the ladder, cutting down the nets in a few moments, hoisting a gold ball logo.

That means for the Brewer fans in the other side.

Of course, the other side of the coin, it can be a cruel mistress sometimes.

These big games.

Falmouth gave it absolutely everything they had.

They have to take home a runner up trophy two years in a row.

It's actually hard for me to look over that Falmouth bench.

Those boys left everything on the court they come home just shy of their goal and they're handling it well.

They're handling it like true sportsman, but you know, their hearts are breaking I've been there.

Yes, you have.

You know what it's like to lose late so do those boys over there in blue starting to cut down the nets I'm always intrigued to see how the players cut down the nets.

First of all, you kind of wonder why she does act like you've been there before with the witches have.

It's so sometimes you get up there and you really start hack into the net and take it down quickly.

Sometimes you cut it little by little and you savor the moments.

Sometimes you seem to get sharp scissors and sometimes you get blunt scissors and you have to hack at it.

There's that as well.

Yeah.

The trick scissors up there, you never know who's got the sharpening stone out it's Mike Burnham, the MP, looking on won a game here at the Gaza Civic Center.

I can't say enough about what these guys gave us tonight as far as announcers and as far as fans are concerned.

Yeah, we just watched an instant classic here in Augusta tonight when main public replays these games this is one you don't want to miss if you just joined us late.

Trust me.

Watch the whole thing.

On the net, down to the far end.

They cut that one down fast.

They must have the sharp scissors, but they're waiting up there.

Brady Saunders and Evan Neto they're waiting to.

It's all kind to simultaneously wave it.

Now it's down at the other end.

Let our boys let it rip.

You can see what it means for Rider Goodwin Brewer fans have literally never seen it the last time they were close.

1988, Milli Vanilli was on the charts.

Wow.

It's been a long time.

Again, this group of seniors for Brewer, they're seven seniors.

They've been with Coach Ben Goodwin since they were little kids and travel tournaments up to the University of Maine.

They talk about how much time they spend together on and off the court, how much love there is in this team.

There's a real brotherhood gentleman represent, and it shows when things got tough.

But they were dug down deep did what they had to do in the big leagues.

Our chase a great personal Winslow Junior High School and T.J., Maine's athletic director Cody High School on behalf of the Maine Principals Association, we want to congratulate both teams on their excellent seasons, their regional championships and their outstanding tournament play and a great game this evening.

The state game is one of high expectations and high emotions.

As you reflect upon this evening, be sure to include memories of all the victories and the accomplishments that led you to this opportunity.

To represent your region in this state championship game.

And again, congratulations to both teams on a great season and a note standing game this evening.

To begin the awards presentation, we want to ask head coach Dave Halligan of the Falmouth Navigators and is assistant coach Jamie Hilton and Eddie Flaherty.

Please come forward just to assist also Matt Massimino and Keith Magnuson keep that personnel for Falmouth sophomore Davis man sophomore Ezra Hamlin sophomore Jackson Cameron sophomore Rocco Patsey sophomore Billy Burks Junior Charlie Will Junior, Henry Stoll Junior Alex Finley Junior Chris Simmons Senior Rocco Mancini Senior Eli Cowperthwaite Senior Payton Mitchell Senior Paul Dilworth Senior Judd Armstrong Senior Lucas Dilworth In Injured Jake Meter At this time, we'd like to ask the captains to please come forward It is our pleasure to present this plaque emblematic of the 2023 boys class AA State Championship runners up to the Falmouth Navigators.

Congratulations, Falmouth and now to present the awards to the brewer which is we want to ask head coach Ben Goodwin and his assistant coaches Scott Flagg.

Bill push our Trevor Pearson.

Tyler Smith and Mark Savage.

Please come forward First, the manager senior Hunter McDonnell now for the team personnel sophomore Cole Harriman sophomore Jake Perry and sophomore Charles Bridges sophomore Owen Fullerton sophomore Stephen Young's junior Kaitlyn Philbrick, Junior Brayden Carr senior Titus Philbrick Senior Aiden Davis Senior Cameron Hughes Senior Captain Evan Nadeau Senior Captain Brock Flagg Senior Captain Ryder Goodwin Senior Captain Brady Saunders.

In addition, at this time, we'd like to present the game ball to Coach Ben Goodwin and now we'd like to ask the captains to please come forward It is our pleasure to present this gold ball emblematic of the 20, 23 boys plus a big pippins for the brewer, which is congratulations Brewer.

For the first time ever, these witches are kings.

Oh, it's going to be a party in Brewer tonight.

Winning a gold ball was always special.

But when you win the first in program history, you become a mortal.

Remains is going to talk to the winning brewer, which is coming up next.

They knocked off down with 42 41 they're the champs of class AA the state of Maine 2023 production of high school basketball on Maine public television is made possible by people like you and buy get cash and forget the surcharge fees with Maine credit unions surf ATM network fined over 250 surcharge free ATMs at Maine credit unions dot org shin bro committed to helping build communities and careers.

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Expect the unexpected at the University of Maine at Presque Isle committed to providing an affordable education with a personalized experience full of discovery and innovation The expressions on their faces tell it all now without got the game.

They wanted low scoring but Brewer conjuring up the late bucket to win by a point 40 to 41.

And there's the prize right in the middle to miss foul shots at the end of the game by Paul Dilworth.

I'm sure you're going to be seeing those shots in his nightmares first, maybe forever.

But Brewer as you as we've said, bring it home that first gold ball in school history.

That's something you never take away from them.

That's a story they'll have for the rest of their lives, their tell their kids and their grandkids someday.

I was a part of that first team to ever win a gold ball at Brewer High School.

Third time was the charm for Brewer they tried in 1960 we're back in 1988.

And then they had to wait 35 years to come back.

And a battle a very game filled with navigators team the top seed in class-A South to add the lead on them in the third and fourth quarter they came back to win.

Jim Baynes is standing by with the victors let's run it down to the floor you know it's my honor to share our state championship moment with anybody want to get their first gold ball it makes it extra special here and guys congratulations first of all can I tell you let's walk through that final shot in the feet and everything right there.

Yeah.

Brock is driving down he got triple team.

I was lucky enough to be wide open under he passed a great pass on the rear.

I made the layup.

How many times have you fantasized about a winning shot in the state championship game?

Two too many to count like it.

Doesn't it feel real?

I mean, you think about that, like, randomly, and you think about before the game.

You don't think that's going to happen, and it happens.

So amazing.

So you have a lot of time to drink this.

Let's talk about that dish where Brock got here.

Brock Brock making over here, man.

First of all, talk about let's talk about the the dish and you see a saw him open there for the state championship win there.

That's kind of like the stuff movies are made out of them so fortunate to grow up with these guys but when I was dribbling at the free throw line I saw a copper wait at the corner of my eye.

I'm like this I knew Cameron had to be somewhere and just thankfully he was where I threw the ball and it was just a great finish.

But after the first quarter, looks like you had it in the bag.

And then what what did you see from your standpoint here?

That's as a came on.

I think basketball is it's like life.

It's a game of runs.

You know, there's ups and downs so we knew going into this game, they're back.

They back to back.

So champions, they're good for a reason.

So we knew that they were going to go on runs and we're going to go on runs.

We just happen to be first.

So we it was nothing we weren't expecting because they're Joe Armstrong is an amazing player and they're a great team.

So we knew that was going to happen.

Okay.

Brian, what do you think made him come back or you made you come back on them after it looks like they had you right there at the very end.

We've had the experience.

I mean, we've been down in games during the regular season a lot.

We had stretch there in the middle of the season where we got down on a lot of teams and we knew we were going to win the game.

It was just a matter of time.

We just kept grinding and kept scoring on the inside, and that's really what got us going.

I think writer and Cam were huge down the stretch, and I mean Cam, you can't ask for a better shot than that to win a championship.

So that was Clutch.

We got to give Ryder a little time over here to here.

Ryder, I tell you, we got to talk about the very beginning of the game that you shared a big hug with Coach, right?

They everybody saw that the beginning.

I know it seems like a long time ago, the very beginning of the game right now.

Can you tell us what you said?

It probably just I love you and that's pretty much it.

Yeah.

Yeah.

We've had that tradition all season.

You know, that's my father and I love him.

And he got me to this point.

And so I want to come out here do it for him and he pushes our team and pushes us in practice and tells us that we got to get it ourselves.

And that's what we want to do right off the bat.

Tell us about his guidance throughout this game when you guys were getting down, what did he tell you?

How to just to keep your poise and you talk about when we were down and that's that mental part that he talks to us all the time about, you know, starting from when we are younger it's always that mental part.

He pushes us in practice.

And some of those practices were the hardest that I've ever been through.

And he just made us mentally prepared to come in this game and win it.

And that was mental.

That mental toughness is why you're here now, right?

Correct.

Absolutely.

Let's get Ben in here if he's a. Yeah.

Coach.

Oh, oh, oh.

Coach.

Yeah, well, nobody was celebrating already.

I don't blame him.

Okay, very good.

All right.

Let's just talk about when.

Okay.

It looked like of the first quarter, are you going to have an easy night and then a family came back on you?

What did they do?

How did you adjust?

Talk about that.

You know, family is a great team.

They came in with a good game plan.

One to slow us down a little bit.

We missed some shots, probably didn't play our best game.

But I'll tell you what, the guts and the determination this team has is I couldn't be more proud of all these guys and how they stuck together.

And every time out, everything we said, we're going to win this game.

We're going to win this game.

There was no doubt.

And and we did.

What kind of adjustments did you make to it, to their counters as time went on?

We tried to spread it out a little bit more, let our guards work and open it up for our bigs, hopefully a little bit.

But to be honest, I just let my players play.

We got some outstanding players, a whole group of them and we just went and played and finished the game.

Tell us what this means.

I know what it means for the community, but you tell the state what it means to Brewer.

It it's it's unbelievable, you know, for this for this group of young men, I think they they deserve this.

They've earned this.

But for the community, they backed us the whole time and been there for us.

And it's just I'm just so happy we get to bring the gold ball back to Brewer.

Very good.

Guys, guys, congratulations, every one of you.

Oh, we have a big parade down Wilson Street.

In the meantime, tell the camera what it's like to be stoked.

Yeah.

Yeah, oh, coming of happy witches on the floor.

And I'm not sure, Brandon, I don't see this very much.

I'm not sure what to add to that because the players really set it all.

There were so many great comments about what this means.

I think the one that rang most true to me was Cam, you saying we fantasized about this.

It's what you dream about.

And it absolutely is.

For a community seeing this for the first time, that's storybook stuff for the brewer, which is it brings the tears to your eye.

You talk about the father son relationship and the relationships between those young men on that team.

That's that's just good stuff.

And it's special stuff and really wise words from from those players I'm very impressed Brewer the win tonight.

42 41.

We get through this all over again on Monday class A's a class double AA Class D we'll do it again thanks for watching.

I want to thank Jim Banes, our sideline reporter, Nick Garvey, our producer, my colleague, commentator Brandon Terrell, our entire Maine public television crew.

My name is Robert Kennedy.

Sang so long.

There's the word, which is community state champs for the first time.

Thanks for watching, everybody on Maine Public Television