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It's the MPW Boys Cross State Championship between the South Portland Red riots and the Portland Bulldogs and welcome to the Cross Insurance Arena.

I'm Rob Kennedy along with Brandon Terrell class Double-A boys.

A gold ball is at stake between the Portland Bulldogs and South Portland Red riots in Brandon.

We were up in Augusta on Friday night saw Brewer take on former this game has a lot of the same feel to it as Brewer and Falmouth with.

Yeah it's a similar type of setup.

It's a contrast of styles.

South Portland on the one hand, wants the game in the sixties or the seventies.

They want to get up and down and score some points Portland on the other side, they come in defensive minded coach Scott Graf of Oxford Hills, who they defeated in the regional final set of Portland, that they are the best defensive team in our conference.

They're going to need it tonight to hold down the red riots.

Portland's in our omissions.

It's a heartbreaking buzzer beater loss to Cheverus in last year's regional quarterfinal here they are with 16 wins taking on a team that with a win tonight would tie Bangor for the most gold balls in the state with 13 they've got 12 they won last year over the Oxford Hills Vikings this red riots team is coming in all guns blazing here tonight should be a great contest with two teams who know each other so well yeah.

In South Portland they really thought they were going to have a different kind of team entering this year.

They lost Owen Maloney to graduation.

He's at the University of Maine.

There was J.P. Estrella, six foot 11 a commit to University of Tennessee.

He's at Brewster Academy.

They lost No.

One hub, six foot five power forward.

He's focusing on his baseball pitching.

So they had to change on the floor.

They had to readjust and really become a guard oriented team.

And here they are once again, all the way back to the state final.

Greg Levinsky is the third man in our broadcast team.

He is down with head coach Joe Russo and the Portland Bulldogs coach.

Obviously, you've been here before, but these guys on your team necessarily haven't.

What's the message to them and this competition to get South Portland, relax their minds, relax it minds.

I know it's a big game, but it's just a game.

Just come out and play basketball and don't get too caught up in the with the emotion because it just grind you up without giving too much away.

What's the game plan?

Oh, the game plan is almost a simple game plan.

Both teams strengths are in different areas, so it's really going to be, you know, what team can exploit those two areas.

So we're totally different in that regard, but very merit teams and almost everything else we do.

So I think it's going to be a 32 minute dogfight all right, Coach, good luck.

Thank you.

Back to you guys.

Let's take a look at how both these teams got here to Portland tonight.

The road to the Golden Portland Bulldogs and South Portland red riots last year.

They knocked off in the quarters, regionals and semifinals in between points per game.

Well, that's on South Portland side, but you look at that defense.

Portland, one of the best teams, the best team in class, double lane North.

And Scott Graf, head coach of the Nationals Vikings says they're the best defensive team in the league.

The numbers back that up basketball that it's hard to beat a good team three times in one year.

Portland knocked off Oxford Hills after losing to them twice in the regular season.

South Portland on their side knocked off Thornton Academy in the regional final after losing to them twice in the regular season.

Greg Levinsky has made his way over to coach Kevin Millington of the South Portland Red Riots.

Let's join him down on the floor while coach us, Jalen Jackson told me after last game.

We're back.

You're back here in the state championship game.

I know that you were here last year as well.

Obviously, a much different team.

What you have to say about these guys and what's your message to them to this one?

You know, I'm really proud of them.

They've really come a long way this year.

I'm just really happy with the way they compete.

They really give it everything they have and that's really all you can ask for.

So I know you saw Portland once this year.

What are your expectations for this one?

Well, you know, we're going to have to rebound they're the best rebounding team in Maine off on the offensive glass and we're going to have to defend them.

And then, you know, they're going to make it hard to score.

So maybe we don't shoot it really well.

But maybe a couple of threes would be nice.

All right, Coach, best of luck.

Thank you.

Thank you.

All right, guys, back to you.

Kevin Milligan referenced that regular season game.

It was a South Portland win.

47.

46, but it took a Jalen Jackson put back with 3 seconds left to seal the victory for the red riots and a back and forth game that featured four lead changes in the fourth quarter.

If only we can be so lucky to have that kind of game here at the Cross Insurance Arena here tonight.

Yeah, the regular season finale was a windshield wiper game.

It was back and forth, especially in the fourth quarter.

The battle with the bridge here tonight is for all the marbles, gold ball on the line.

Let's see if we have another close.

One is also for the lead in the overall series.

They play in the postseason 30 times 15, 15 overall is the total couple of overtime games.

Of course they play in the 2016 state finals.

Portland won that and double overtime.

So not only are they playing each other quite a bit in the postseason they have had some absolute classics these two teams and I've got a feeling we are very likely to have another one here tonight.

Yeah.

Portland star Remigio Juan, he said in the newspaper not only are we going to states, but we're going to states against so Poe.

It's a huge deal for these two teams and for these players and coaches out here tonight that it's a rivalry game on the biggest stage it is this he will control the glass.

One thing impressed me about the Portland Bulldogs when they took on and knocked off the top seeded Oxford Hills Vikings 47 35 bench they lost twice the regular season of the Vikings.

Jesse Thomas was an absolute monster on the boards.

I don't think many would have picked Thomas as good as he is to win the 2023 north tourney MVP.

But 19 points 19 rebounds for the biggest game of the year.

Yeah that'll get you some hardware yeah.

Camus 19 points 19 rebounds taking that tournament MVP he's a load on the inside the anchors that Portland defense and he's a leader on the backboards both of which Portland excels at Talk about Jalen Jackson as well for South Carolina McDonald's all star he was the south tourney MVP double digits in all four games 17 against Sanford 14 against Scarbrough 17 against Thornton Academy and 11 points in the regular season including that put back to win it against the Portland Bulldogs he's a guy whose name we're going to say an awful lot tonight you know that already.

Yeah Jackson is the real deal he can really fill it up he's got a lot of hardware already taken down the tournament MVP in the McDonald's all star nod.

We'll see if you can add the gold ball to the trophy case as well here tonight.

South Portland going for their 10th straight win tonight.

They won their last nine trying to cap things off of the gold ball as you watch the riots faithful, they are fired up for their team here tonight.

Good crowd as you'd expect with these two teams.

Almost feels like a Saturday night.

School night doesn't deter these kids whatsoever.

And I would hope not these kind of opportunities, although it might seem like they come a lot more for these teams really are precious and few we're about to turn it over to the house Mike right now and meet both the Bulldogs and the red riots here in Portland can you hear me.

And gentlemen welcome to tonight's main principals Association tournament game here in the cross insurance arena.

This game is a class a boys basketball state finals.

Our competitors tonight are the North Regional Champions, Portland High School, Bulldogs and the South Regional Champions, South Portland High School, Bulldogs Softball, High School Riots, Regardless of the outcome of today's game, the Maine Principals Association asks that all spectators consider the time and effort that each of these young participants have put forth to represent his school.

All participants and spectators are expected to assist in the promotion and achievement of good sportsmanship ideals by taking personal responsibility for keeping this contest at a high level of fair, clean and wholesome competition.

Remember sportsmanship.

The only missing piece is you.

And now let's meet the participants for tonight's contest.

First for the Portland High School Bulldogs, a junior number one Kevin Brook a beer while a junior number four puppy dog girl Kisha a sophomore number 11 Ben Blake a junior and number 12 Eddie Antonio a sophomore number 20 Dru value a senior number 21 Sam Esposito a junior number 23 James Johnson a senior number 25 Angel R.A. a sophomore, no 30 Devon Walker and a senior number 32 Hayden Bachman and the team members for South Portland High School.

Senior number two Mike Lee, Moe a senior number 14 Collin Banks a senior number 22 Drew Farley a sophomore No 23 Carmine Sushi a junior number 24 an office pageant a sophomore No 30 mini Hidalgo a sophomore number 32 Chris Keane a sophomore No.

35 Tom Maloney, a senior number 42 Andrew Heffernan and a senior number 45.

Josh Barrasso and now you're starting lineups for Portland.

That guard a senior number two Kennedy Charles for South Portland, Oregon, junior number three, Jaden Kim for Portland Guard at senior number three.

Brady two hour for South Portland at guard, a senior number for Jalen Jackson for Portland, not for a senior number ten Remy Joe won a for South Portland net forward.

A senior number five gave a Galarraga for Portland that forward senior number 14 Patty Donato for South Portland at guard Senior number 11 Ben Smith for Portland at center a junior number 20 for Jesse Collins for south Portland That guard a senior number 21 Joey Hamlin the Portland Bulldogs are coached by Joe Russo.

He's assisted by Dan Le Gage, Joe Giordano Junior and Joe Johnson, the student manager for Portland is Joseph Miller.

The South Portland Red Riots are coached by Kevin Millington, assisted by Connor Haas and Tyler Tanner Hyland, Nick Costigan, Ryan Porter and Mike Owens.

Their student manager is Henry Sear.

The officials for tonight's contest are Daniel Neto, Nick Daigle, and what's Royce are table staff tonight scorekeepers?

Ellen Dugan, our scoreboard operator is Tyler with you on our time as Paul Maki our musical coordinators, Jake Hodgkin and our onsite athletic trainer is Annemarie Bouchard.

There will be no national anthem as one was played earlier this evening.

Good luck to both teams.

So Portland and South Portland set to go.

The gold ball at stake, the red riots, the defending champs trying to win back to back titles because the second time in their history the last time 1928.

1929.

It's been a peace while Bulldogs are to win their first since 2018 when they knocked off these red riots 60 to 38.

So Berlin wearing the whites the crowd in here packed to the rafters on both sides picks student sections ready to go rolling in a row darts in Colorado for South Portland.

Jesse Thomas set to jump for the Bulldogs.

Referee Dan Neto's got the basketball he's riding.

The crowd's running the players already on the glass double AA gold ball game is underway and the red riots will get the first possession it's Jaden Kim the junior handling the basketball is a threat to score from anywhere.

Jalen Jackson and Smith outside the pass underneath dish to Galarraga and he missed off the glass the pressure from pitching in that Donato good ball movement inside that Portland half court zone to get that look just couldn't finish.

Thomas taking on Galarraga the shot just off the back the big Jr for the rebound for South Pole and they're back quickly to close shots on both ends neither with drop Wade downtown Julian Jackson don't let him get hot First bucket of the game comes from a long range the McDonald's all star it only hit 13 against the Bulldogs in the regular season.

He looks scoring most of his points from inside that arc but launches from way downtown to open the scoring here tonight.

Kennedy Charles what a matchup of Jalen Jackson it's going to be tonight for those two electrifying superstars Donato Short his short rebound fell to Jaden Kim good defensive possession there by the red riots Here's another three on the way it's carried by Joey Hanlon nothing but the bottom of the net Hamblin Three ball corner pocket Allen top number was five points the regional final against Thornton Academy in Joe Russo wants a timeout as this team's down six He's not taking that excuse me It's out on the sideline and a little early for coach to take a timeout by coach Russo's comments in the pre-game talked about clear our minds let's play loose out there down six nothing that's going to be important Can't get too tight here early on tour travels and then I'll turn it back over to the red riots oh, that's exactly it too.

And when you start to see things sliding a bit early on, you got to maintain that composure.

Joey Hanlon's already hit 13 Jayden Kim drives and another one for Hanlon off the iron.

That time we'll get a second chance on.

He traveled in the Bulldogs will take the basketball back to Portland elects to stay packed inside their zone rather than close out on that three point shot by Hanlon even though he stuck the first one left and wide open unable to hit the second one.

It was close though just off the rim 82 of the senior just handling the basketball was Joey Hanlon for South Portland matched up with him and work that down long wanted Charles back to one he's stolen quick hands by Joey Hamlin Jackson held on to that somehow Ashley Kim now cam a shot won't go on a foul call against the red riots that should go against Colorado you see on the replay here Brady to her smallest guy on the court by quite a piece here and the rebounding action has great position and he just gets pushed over from the back Gabe Galarraga can't do that calling to get on the scoreboard two of the senior with those quick hands Remy Joe on it was his footing by that baseline at south Portland basketball yeah no pressure now from the bulldogs so try to disrupt Jalen Jackson on the inbounds and the bulldogs back off a bit token pressure pressure the inbounds pass now drop back we'll take change up here at halfcourt making them in the end there with the basketball now out of Ben Smith Smith.

11 points in the regionals against Thornton Academy had a huge game Jackson said yeah not surprised we're playing with him forever I know we can hit those big shots and he did against the Trojans.

Jaden Kim launches short of the rebound ball and wants to come back quickly tonight.

Though I had to come into the corner Kennedy Charles Burke down low and let me throw one He is going to shoot for the line if you play here from Lonnie you see a cut to the ball Go pump fake right there Gets the defender in the air Jalen Jackson commits his first foul Lonnie go to the line for two Stockton Greg Levinsky who's standing by as he shot to take it from Joe one okay it's not an issue down there with that house Mike we'll try a different one and see if we can connect with Greg at a moment's warning.

It's the second one as well.

What you got, Greg?

I'll see.

We can fix those microphone difficulties for us and check in with Greg Levinsky.

He knows these teams very well.

He's seen them all year.

Ben Smith and a nice little floater.

Tough to prevent Smith inside the team for the Portland defense gets it almost stolen by Joey Handler Tua he got fouled of blocking goal against the South Portland senior so foul by 21 fouls on him.

Well as I mentioned earlier that's three now assault prone Paul has not committed a foul yet still looking for their first field goal of the quarter almost halfway through that's stolen Jackson one up high to knock it away a right to Hanlon and West Jackson Too many Portland players inside now will take its eye off the glass No good Thomas was a rebound machine against Oxford Hills Yanks one down comfortable drive there by Jackson and the two defenders almost had it anyway loose on the floor picked up by Jackson Jackson back quickly crossing the time line still with it Smith baseline the kickouts Skylar Raga He steps to the hole and he will go to the line And now what's for the third time is the third time the charm Greg Luzinski I think it might be let's go right here you know I'm sure you're talking about Joe Jackson I know you have but one thing that makes a South Portland team so here right now is the big game experience for everyone else.

Jayden Kim, Gabe Galarraga as sophomores played massive balls coming off the bench of South Portland last year.

Joey handling as well with these pageant.

There's a handful of guys that made an impact and I think that what makes it that's what makes them so prepared right now.

We talked to Coach Russo.

He's been here a million times, but players in Portland haven't and the South Portland guys have now 2018 the last time the Bulldogs played for a gold ball Galarraga one out of two for the rebound snatched by Ben Smith riots can reset already up seven points halfway through the first quarter Jaden Kim watched by one in three Smith off the glass for 204 points in the early going for the senior Ben Smith Another tough dribble drive for a deuce nine point lead for the red riots Donato Accelerates lost his footing travel Let's see how low Donato gets on that dribble drive to try to get past the defender See how low he is to the floor He takes that extra step through that drive He's going to commit a traveling violation his experienced Red Riots team the defending champs so to a lead here in the first Hanlon outside Thomas watching him Roy Hanlon on the corner now with Jayden count him spins he travels and he's helped to his feet by Brady tour for some of the game right riots and Manny Hidalgo the sophomore in number 36 Portland early on was in the halfcourt 23 zone but halfway through the quarter they've switched to man to man they've been in it ever since we got the stops they need it they need to start putting some points on the board a guarded by Hidalgo who just came in Hidalgo.

It's an impact offensively but it's loose on the floor and the Bulldogs had it lost it on a foul call here just like Ben Smith being called for that.

Here's Andrew Heffernan, the senior in for South Portland and it's close to teams.

Here's the follow on Smith.

His first four now in South Portland, took Sam Esposito's also into the game for the Bulldogs He is number 21 tour timeout called 32nd timeout call by coach Joe Russo.

Season six of high school quiz show main returns on March 23rd.

Tune in to watch schools from around the state, match wits and compete for the $1,000 prize this season.

Scores from Fort Kent, the South Berwick will battle it out for the championship It all starts Thursday, March 23rd at 8 p.m. on Maine Public Television.

In the town hall on cheerleaders.

A lot to cheer about here in the early going a nine point lead for their red riots.

You see that student section C of red right off to our left on bulldogs talking over first time out of the game.

Coach Joe Russo demonstrative in that timeout Still searching for that first made field goal of the game the offense all kinds of out of sorts.

Need to find somebody to make a move and put a basket in here and get off the schneid with field goals a taste of their own medicine overall that's what the Bulldogs usually do to their opponents.

So far, the red riots have had the suffocating defense in this one.

Tour.

He's watched by it all go Donato do not own.

Jackson doing battle here now tour stepping around it all go who took it all the way in wouldn't it counted he traveled red riots basketball at seven turnovers already for Portland here in the first quarter that's number is way too high for coach Joe Russo Kevin rookie of the year well coming in right now he's number one for Portland we see him right there let's you did talk to not oh yeah took him away and said nice right here Jayden came in a battle of threes with tour in the front courts.

Heffernan was a good three point shooter at nine this regular season he's in a three in every single postseason game and Smith Kim Dr. Smith taking the three got in underneath great defense root beer was showed up out of nowhere and two or grabbed the loose ball another strong dribble drive for the basket by Ben Smith met with a defensive challenge on that one will be here while launches Iyer Smith the rebound south Portland afternoon kicked it back out and Jackson travels.

Sorry but I'll go to ten turnovers combined these two teams here in this first quarter both searching for some consistency with the basketball on offense here Thomas back in for Esposito Galarraga about to reenter for the red riots rule the beer white Thomas taking it strong won't fall that hit all the way back out who come up with this Smith handed that off to Hidalgo and the foul calls on the replay Smith collects it and a loose ball situation it's a foul right there on to her three grams and if you know you're you're a rookie she's about to come in he's topped off the bench for Portland L.A. right now number for the senior Jackson Inbounding the basketball for the red riots happened at the Jackson Court the back I'm right back to the all star he puts it high up no and another rebound for Jesse Thomas 20 taking on half turn in and lays it in That's what Portland needs Gets an easy one in transition strong outlet pass money easy to tough job for Andrew Heffernan back there was for me Joe wanting the game that's happening now and he had all going but throw out there around the Jackson screen he's the first act enough he's Padgett a 24 gadget Jackson and not all right there defensively Jackson turned around him a wooden floor he thought he got foul the referee says let's keep playing as the marquee matchup right there Jackson couldn't get a great one on one defense by one he very Mugisha resetting for the Bulldogs can it dribble drop that off to Donato Donato into the paint put it up high no Thomas the rebound well you get a put back he will won't fall that won't go either and so Paul claims the basketball couple of attempts.

Couple of good looks for the bulldogs wouldn't fall for him you see why coach Millington said Portland is the best offensive rebounding team in the conference the way they attack the glass on that possession they couldn't get several looks to fall south roll 19 seconds to work trying to add to a seven point lead and he had all go eye and looked at the clock 10 seconds left he's Padgett 5 seconds to go and I'll go he's got to hurry Here's Manny the shot off the glass no good and that's the way the first quarter will end The Bulldogs get the ball we come back to the cross arena but they're down seven 11 to four to south Portland on Maine Public Broadcasting 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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CC Bulldogs Basketball Down seven.

Remy Joannie gets us started.

Aaron Mugisha still in the game He's came off the bench has the ball now number four for the Bulldogs Want to force that in underneath and look going a foul call against Joey Handler battle Sam Donato to the line say Portland trying to use their size on that first possession here the second quarter and a double post when the goal post one on the high post went into Donato made a nice strong move to the basket he'll earn a trip to the stripe there to no trying to cut into a seven point gap with the clock standing still senior hits continue to follow Lee checking in now number 22 a senior for the red riots and the remainder of the line which million's gone to his bench use nine players so far tonight Bulldogs views eight of their own in nanoseconds just like the first Kim the junior round the screen Kim outside Smith stops tops hits rattled the rim and dropped it down Game high six points for Ben Smith Nice elbow jumper They're pure scores That seven point lead for the red riots here Mugisha rejected by Galarraga It'll stay Bulldogs basketball but an authoritative block with a 66 junior We'll see it again Sit strong dribble drive to the hoop Thought he had the angle Galarraga says no you don't get it out of here Just lured him right in and swatted it away.

20 on the inbounds here Mugisha outside rule to be here here having a deal with a junior was great in the opening round against Windham in the quarters at four three-pointers and three more against Lewiston splits rejected again Galarraga Mr. Galarraga his neighborhood get it out Drew Foley in underneath taking on a pair of Bulldogs players that will stay in the hands of the red riots as Jalen Jackson said to inbounds.

That's the dangerous thing for corners.

Jackson's been kept relatively quiet it's been the rest of the red riots and led to the seven point advantage.

Ben Smith really stepping up senior guard six points for a game high here in the early going.

The Raja down on the baseline, staring right at Jesse Thomas Smith outside Galarraga again he travels Referee Dan Nettleton to long look at that score circle in the arc four turnovers now for the red riots eight committed by the Bulldogs to many there in that first quarter.

So there was a point of emphasis from coach Russo in the quarter break a is trying to claw a little closer down 70 magician into the corner Rubio on the air or backed off guarded by Jaden Kim not set the screen Brooke up here went underneath again Galarraga makes that shot difficult Thomas the rebound oh strong bucket by the junior really took some strength to go up through all kinds of arms there and defenders and finish that put back by Camus back within five see exactly what Joe Russo thinks of that Galarraga set to inbound now is team up by five low pressure again by the Bulldogs last time was token pressure we'll see what they do here Galarraga Jackson in underneath incisive pass Smith the fall away no actually that was drew falling wouldn't fall great Levinsky what do you see in the Justin Thomas one man wrecking crew in that game against Oxford Hills he wasn't the tallest guy on the floor but pulled down over almost 20 rebounds in that one and he's really and X-Factor not only offensively defensively rebounding I mean for a guy that played JV most of last year it didn't start at the beginning of the season what a playoff run for him and Pawlenty to come back he's going to have a lot to do with it Galarraga is just wiping everything out third block in about the last 2 minutes.

Quick hands by Roca Berra almost got the steal open one by five It's number five with a basketball game Galarraga cam off balance got the iron the rebound and the quick pass outlet threw the beer well and again rejected Galarraga owns the paint defensively right now doing a great job defending without fouling you see he goes up here to challenge and gets it all ball no body contact but he was the last to touch it to time I'll call the air drew 32nd timeouts man of the most state final games being streamed live in for free on the Maine public basketball Facebook page and the main public YouTube page you can watch any mobile device your computer or your smart TV anywhere you are just search for Maine public basketball or head the Maine public dawg for the links to Portland by five they have the opportunity to extend this lead.

It's been kind of stuck on that five point advantage for a while now.

But Coach Kevin Millington got a Portland defense really cramping down here in the second quarter.

Just one field goal by Ben Smith so far by the Red Riots.

You wonder if they might try to draw something up for all star Jalen Jackson here.

Get him a look next time they get the ball here.

Portland trying to close it down closer to five here.

First on the South Side, that's Kennedy Charles three on the way one it's short.

Jackson, the rebound Jackson and Charles matched up together two outstanding athletes Jaden Kim Smith on the we've now back to Jackson one more time.

Galarraga has been doing it defensively and we call for the player control foul here it's like one he set up good defensive position it is one he takes all kinds of contact that one hurt sacrifice so for the team Rob get the church and Heffernan back in Galarraga gets the bench that's two on him and six in the red riots the bulldogs committed four fouls so far tonight after the error Mugisha for the Bulldogs to change him follow up Jaden Kim excuse me following him through video getting his first touch of the basketball number 22 senior year Mugisha takes his dribble up needs some help and he gets that from Baylor they guarded by Jackson he's got to stop it Mugisha will reset right by the center circle he's trying you know Gary Mugisha there you are on a deliberate possession here veto the take finger roll won't go the rebound grab by one he'll put it back up No about now let me throw one He's spinning in the paint No deal with us Here's commerce.

He'll try his luck.

That won't go.

Four shots for the Bulldogs fill up empty handed.

You see how tough Portland is with their size and strength on the boards and the red riots.

Try to make him pay with a three is just a little long by the senior drew falling.

He came in off the bench in the regional final against Thornton Academy.

And drained a big three.

Same thing here.

Yup.

Charles on Shaw.

Thomas is more than a rebounder, folks.

He can shoot the big fella knocks down the first three ball of the game for the Portland Bulldogs back to a one possession game blocking foul call here Watch Cam as a three Ashley watch Cam was this foul to go see Jalen Jackson sky through the air Pick up the harm He'll go to the line for two Jackson at the line 70% free throws Oregon I don't know Jackson All right 70% free throw shooter he gets the first and he Hidalgo back in He'll take Drew Foley's spot in the line So and the though Jackson again sinks about five points now for Jackson and the four point lead for his red riots paedo Gary Mugisha with a basketball one he couldn't play in the Portland Bulldogs state championship attempt at football thrilled to be on the floor tonight or to win a gold ball here in basketball.

I think the Skowhegan River Hawks are happy that he couldn't play in the state game.

I think so to want he with it here well it's Kennedy Charles trying to back it all go up here a show the quickstep and the rebound strong by Heffernan strong rebound by Heffernan in the senior they need more of that and Smith advances help the baskets Ben Smith another tough dribble drive he's got eight points now on the game looking for his ninth you see it here he gets inside picks up some contact with that front shoulder hangs fruit finishes in one Kennedy Charles trying to draw the foul instead Ben Smith of the line trying to complete the three point play 32 are back in for Portland Bulldogs Smith doesn't get that too dropped Thomas the rebound Smith still has a game eight Smith high in the tournament so far as 11 in the final against Thornton Academy So he saved his best for the biggest games 01 he underneath that's blocked there's commerce and rolled off his fingertips south Portland basketball at the defense without fouling inside the paint by the red riots are in the turnover That's Portland's first turnover of the second quarter They've been doing a much better job taking care of the basketball that's been effective on the scoreboard handles the basketball and Brady tours lined up with him Jackson this time defended by a rookie being one Jaden Kim outside Jackson underneath doubles defense playing a major role in that miss one closed down on the superstar quickly Lonnie stops at the free throw line rattle but no rebound underneath a putback drop down by Kevin Welcome here one look at the right place Right time makes the put back to back within 41 18 remaining in the first half Jaden Kim and I'll go the quick step now good call good call Dan Nadeau had a good look at it came and came right down on the ball on that dribble drive the jump ball he'll see it he'll get one play here and right on the ball there to work to his hand on the ball instead of calling to travel and narrow correctly jump ball stays with south Portland with the air of Jaden Kim Heffernan likes that shot outside the bulldogs will give it to him is here Mugisha was there quickly Jackson but I'll go drives now are he sat Jackson the NBA three rolled out he thought he hit it I think a lot of the crowd did too I start by Brooke up here a lot of challenge that three I try to work out underneath commerce no planning for the rebounds oh great save by Heffernan the superman dove by Heffernan on the baseline Jackson no the rebound the put back that won't fall either Jackson is taking a pounding underneath to see him kind of turn and protest wants the foul ball you can get it Jesse Candace is shaken up back on the other end of the floor and that rebounding action how about Heffernan?

You think this game matters to these kids?

He was parallel to the floor going out of bounds here, seeing the rebound in the action.

There's Heffernan parallel to the floor.

Go get it.

Big guy wants the big man fly you know Gary Mugisha with the basketball 23 seconds ago the Bulldogs like likely look for the last shot here they have the arrow or love the convert make it a one possession game and in possession run out of the locker room with the third quarter Ruger beer one 20 43 no now so Paul with a chance they've got 5 seconds but I'll go boss the handle got it back no oh he hit all parts of that on but I wouldn't draw for him and the red riots left to be satisfied with a four point lead as we've come to halftime here at the cross insurance arena the defending champs up on top of their rivals by four on mean public television production of high school basketball on Maine public television is made possible by people like you and by expect the unexpected.

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

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

Join me Todd Gardner for Season six of High School Quiz.

Show me seven 1713 the score so cold in front and as we head into our sportsmanship award presentations, I want to thank the folks at Fame, the finance authority of Maine for sponsoring these segments.

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Let's get out to the house.

Make an honor some sportsmanship.

Award winners on behalf of the Maine Principals Association is an honor to present the sportsmanship banners in boys basketball.

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

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

We are pleased to recognize and boys class Double-A North, the Eagles of Windham High School here tonight to receive the award.

Our coaches Chad Pauken and Jeff Grigsby.

George McGillis and Noah Estes, along with player's own Coomes Chase.

Wescott, Blake McPherson.

Quintin Lindsay, Aaron.

Eric Bowen.

Benny Menzies, Grady Dixon, Connor, Jenn Friend Tyree James, AJ Moody, Matthew Clearway Briggs.

Valerie Bryson for Jessie Grant Copy and Joe Blige.

We are also pleased to recognize in Boys Class AA South the Mustangs of Massabesic High School here today to receive the award.

Coaches Joe Payne, along with players Silas Bullard, Tyler Balsamo and Noah Shaw Congratulations to both communities on the sportsmanship banner in class AA Boys Basketball Graduation to the graduates of the Windham Eagles, The Massabesic Mustangs.

Those sportsmanship banners will hang proudly in their respective gyms.

17, 13.

The score here at halftime and Greg Levinsky is down on the floor standing by with Keegan Hyland.

Let's send it down there to Greg Here is Keegan Hyland, obviously a legend, I guess, for the South Portland writer.

I was 2010 graduate.

I know you live around here.

So you've been following the team a lot.

And what do you think about these guys?

Yeah, it's been really fun getting back in the community, watching these guys grow.

I've been able to get to know a lot of the kids in the community with Coach Millington and have my brother and one of my best friends on the staff too is the really cool.

And especially this year, these guys are really peaking at the right time and it's been fun to be a part of.

I know you said you didn't play this championship game, but when you watch these games, is it kind of give you the feels and the memories?

You know, growing up as a kid in Maine, you like the Civic Center.

Is it you know, you're working your whole life to get here.

And it's it's cool to see these kids get that opportunity with a good crowd here tonight.

And, you know, it's it's cool.

Anytime you see the state championship, you bring that ball and run over to the fans.

And that's kind of something you dream for us.

So I hope these guys get to do it again tonight.

Now, when these kids you know, when you were playing these kids were little, did you know any of these kids when they were little guys?

Yeah, they were.

You make me feel old now, Greg.

But yeah, I knew I've known them coming up through the ranks.

I was gone for a long time with college and when I was overseas.

But I always like to stay involved and see what's going on with the program.

And coach going to it's always kept me involved.

And so, you know, I wish the best for a narrow lead.

Now it's going to take for your boys to finish this one out.

I think they got it.

They've got to get to the rim.

A little bit more, you know, keep the intensity.

They came out really hot.

Move the ball, keep it spread.

I think, you know, defensively they've been awesome.

So trusting the process to keep everything going together, just the process.

Just like Brett Brown, another sophomore like I kick it.

Thank you, guys.

Go back to you guys.

It's kind of tough being a South Portland legend given how many gold balls this team has won.

12.

So if you're getting that word tossed around in the Red Riots program, I think you've done something special.

And Keegan Hyland certainly deserves that, no doubt about that.

Let's take a look.

The individual numbers here at the half and we'll take a look at those right now with Brandon Gerald first with the Portland Bulldogs, Kevin Kruger.

Bierhoff chipped in with two points.

You Donato also had two points.

Remy Joe at one, he had four points.

And Jesse Camus was Portland's leading scorer in that first half with five points.

All of those came in the second quarter.

One of those on the big three point shot over on the other side for the South Portland Red riots.

Gabe Galarraga had one point, but several huge blocks there in that first half.

Joey Hanlon chipped in with a three pointer.

Jalen Jackson had five points and Ben Smith has a game high eight points, a low scoring game so far, South Portland and Fryer.

But it's got to be kind of the game that Joe Russo wanted to see his team play tonight.

Yeah, Russo's team is struggling offensively to score.

The basketball is stuck on just 13 points here at halftime.

They committed way too many turnovers in the first quarter with eight in the quarter got that down to just one in the second quarter.

They take a step back.

They don't really mind the style of game overall that this is.

They're just going to have to find a way to execute and find some more efficiency on offense.

You don't usually see Paul on a South Lawn getting along or doing too much together, but I guess Neil Diamond brings everyone together here at the Cross Insurance Arena.

Time to break second half action.

Coming up, a low scoring first half and the South Portland Red riots.

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Hammond Lumber Company with 22 locations across Maine and New Hampshire serving professional contractors and Do-It-Yourselfers since 1953 Rob Kennedy Brandon Gerald back here with you in Portland getting set for the second half as you see both teams on the floor doing their last second warm ups to you.

What do you expect for adjustments here by the coach Russo for quarter coach Millington for South Roll.

What do you see happening in the second half.

Well you look at the stat sheet here.

If you're South Portland you're happy with your defensive effort there in the first half holding Portland to just three for 19 and 16% field goal percentage.

And on the other hand your field goal percentage doesn't look that great either.

Overall it's been a bit of a rock fight stuck in the teens here at halftime.

Both teams here in the second half need somebody some one person to step up and put some points here on the board to see who it is who can emerge as the scorer in the second half.

Well, that's what it comes down to.

Which player on one of these two teams will put their teammates on their back and carry them to a goal ball?

There's certainly a lot of folks who can do just that.

Both the Portland Bulldogs and the South Portland Red Riots question who it might be He's heading back out on the floor.

Portland.

We'll start with the basketball team down four points the Galarraga back on the floor with Jackson.

Kim Hamlin starting five, coming out for South, won't see Portland dominant at times on the glass there in that first half, a couple possessions, they got three, four or five looks at it and just kept missing those put backs and they could just shoot a higher percentage on the put backs.

That alone would get them more points here in the second half.

This game stays close as we head down the stretch.

The other thing is who will handle the pressure?

That's how Portland is.

Of course, been there before and won this gold ball before the Portland Bulldogs.

Some of these players have gotten this far.

In fact, last year we're out in the quarter final buzzer beater loss to Cheverus was a newfound territory for this Bulldogs bunch.

Let's see if they can come home with some hardware ready tour we want both out there.

Kennedy Charles Will inbound Donato up there as well with a starting five starting in the second half of the Bulldogs 21 tour the quick first step toward a dish that off kick back down here that one of Colorado's boots Caldwell keep possession to her tried to dish down to the post player there she's found the foot of Galarraga instead it's not a kick as to or threw it into his foot with the ball again trying to get past Joey Handler the three on the way and it's once again Jesse Thomas Thomas Kaboom knocks down another long range shot That's a one point game.

Joey Hanlon and Jayden Kim back to the half court zone for the Bulldogs work that down to the baseline to Galarraga back outside.

Kim with it now it's Jalen Jackson Jackson quickly passing that off to him.

Jackson, any bit of daylight behind the arc you'll take the shot but not yet to or knows that too well Galarraga the baseline jumper off the iron ball and can take the lead in this possession.

See how tough that halfcourt zone is for Portland that's the only shot so Courtney could find a little tough angle baseline Jay Galarraga couldn't make it to are indecisive and he got fouls it wasn't a pass off there as we'll see him attack here in and out dribble by Toure gets low he's already below everybody picks up some arm they're handling he'll go to the line a senior 65% from the line and tie it up on this attempt and the senior locks us up at 17 first point for Toure he's in the score book a chance for the bulldogs to take the lead to hit a couple of free throws against Oxford Hills in the victory and two for the line here now Portland up one quick five nothing run out of the locker room for the Bulldogs it's a half court trap and he had all go Jackson pop that back to Kim Jackson's double dribbled through It's shot short though that's off Kennedy Charles with it stays Portland basketball starter Greg Luzinski.

Look guys this is the ultimate Portland high school basketball game or something about that magic number of 40 points that Joe Russo likes to hold his opponents below and they're certainly on pace you just wonder who's going to come up big down the stretch as we were talking about at halftime, which player will emerge should be the hero in this game.

A lot of cast possible characters, including Jaden, Kim, how boom, Jimmy knocks it down from long range against that halfcourt zone.

They're going to need long range shooters.

That's the third three pointer of the ball game for the red riots approaching by two.

Again, two or tries to tie it up.

He got fouled by Hidalgo and the seniors back of the stripe one more time.

Another strong dribble drive by Toure gets inside of the defense, checks his options on the perimeter.

So he's going to take it all the way myself and go back to the line.

The 33 to four hits the first three for three and a chance to tie us up again.

He's perfect.

20 apiece for trap comes again one, two, two and Smith and I'll go to Jacksonville.

The free throw line is not falling for him yet and the Bulldogs as is their custom not making it all easy for Jalen Jackson they get those shots away Donato down low and he found Jesse canvas again nice pass by Donato for the defense thought he was going to kick that back out that Golden State Bulldogs have and here's what he want He attacks he's in deep and he got fouled and it's all balling here in the third quarter so far it's a nine nothing run now out of the locker room you see what he attacks the rim gets too deep like you said he picks up the arm right there by working the pivot in the pump fake Evan Milligan wants a timeout to try to settle his red riots down to reestablish what worked for them in the first half.

Raul Castro, the main sin high school basketball championships were made possible by members since 1979.

Thank you to the tens of thousands of 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 at the Maine public dot org and click the big red donate button and thanks the Bulldogs all of a sudden finding their offensive touch to go along with their defense.

Nine points here in the third quarter to take that two point lead.

Now the big man Jesse Camus stepped out and knocked down a big three ball to get him going.

He added a layup and Brady to her has been driving to the line and he scored 44 from the straight dancing over there in the Bulldogs cheering section.

On the other side, the Red Riots put up 11 points in that first quarter.

But feeling good early on against that at that halfcourt thrown from the Bulldogs, they've scored just nine points since I had a chance to be right back here on Wednesday.

Their hockey team players for a chance to win a state championship in a regional final Let me throw one is at the line the 42 Andrew everyone he's a good free throw shooter doesn't get that one 68% on the season they make it a three point lead as the senior lets it fly and that won't go either.

Pretty rare to see him miss two out of two at the line Rob it is rare Jayden cam for the red riots and his team down to now Smith and Kim playing bass still in that 122 half court zone look here from the Bulldogs extra man up talk Andrew Heffernan in the end on the far side in the 42 always a threat to launch Kim will and he hits Kim's got the red riots on top by one Kim's got a hot hand he's feeling it now six points in the third quarter both from long range a pair of threes for the junior big in the threes here's number three ready to Anthony Charles back outside.

Donato excuse me to her in the corner trying to shake Manny Hidalgo.

Easier said than done one he launches close but no got his own rebound mojo wanted a strong take for two Heffernan almost had that rebound just over his outstretched hand one he was right there gets the put back for 21. lead for Portland Heffernan back to Smith playing pass in front of their head coach Kevin Millington afternoon blocked Camus knew where that ball was going You knew immediately that Heffernan would launch that three C Heffernan gets the ball in the corner thinks he's got a shot at the rim and Cam says no, you don't stop rolling.

Starts over and I'll go.

The sophomore squawks back by Donato Kim Now it's Smith around the Heffernan screen.

Well done.

I wanted to shake that campus.

Had the hot hand.

The Bulldogs know it.

They won't give him that shot.

Again.

And I'll go back to Kim one more time.

Jackson calling for Kennedy, Charles doing a great job denying him the basketball now back outside Smith and I'll go for a three no foul call That'll go against Jalen Jackson for the ball Hit the floor Good patient offensive possession by the red riots They get a good look there by Hidalgo Just can't knock it down So you kick it out He's open Gets a good look at it Can't knock it down In the rebounding action Jalen Jackson pulls down his opponent Go get the foul called on him Four fouls now on South Portland here in the second half The Bulldogs have not committed a foul Let me go on 21 to take wow Remy Joe Lonnie the versatility he can play inside the post he can play on the perimeter How about that dribble drive over the front of the rim.

Three point lead for the Bulldogs Jackson and it's stolen by Charles He's got it back up now afternoon.

Oh we had a chance to maybe tie the game Kennedy Charles over on the South Portland bench getting some pats on the shoulder of one of the assistant coaches Heffernan Maybe a little Gun-Shy after having that three pointer blocked by Camus a few moments ago.

Also right now, both these teams with the Bulldogs seem a step quicker here in the third quarter.

Jaden Kim around the Jackson screen SMITH four, three Got it.

Jaden Kim Six points of his own attract the crowd defensively kick out pass on the money to Ben Smith And he knocks it down from the corner to almost one down on one knee Camas outside and he tour again around the perimeter being chased every step of the way by Manny Hidalgo Camus inside second chance now is blocked from behind Maybe a chance instead for one you know they'll put back no and Camus the last to touch it for Heffernan because it looked like immediately Camus with the easy deuce and Heffernan was there.

Maybe he got a finger on that.

It's one of the subplots of the game.

So far, Portland has had a whole bevy of these possessions where they get one, two, three, four, looks at it and miss them all.

Add another one to the ledger right there, having a real good beer.

Well, back in for the Bulldogs, if you know you're Mugisha is back in as well.

South Portland hanging on here from long range, all nine points since halftime coming from deep in the second half.

The pressure from the Bulldogs now they'll go back off here Donato was guarding Jaden Kim in for South Portland and Jackson.

They converge on Jackson the first chance they gets and that's blocking this time by wanting to see just how hard it is to get three looks off against both these teams.

Another block added to the stat sheet and Hidalgo found that out the hard way Jaramogi should pass that off.

It's the beer.

Well, here I look up here, a tough assignment.

Jackson defending him with a beer while trying to get by anyway, throws a wild shot up.

It doesn't go foul called on the rebound and Sam Esposito going to get Esposito senior forward in the rebounding action there Great job defensively by Jason Jackson on the dribble drive you see here Jackson quick hands The challenge goes straight up without fouling Way to defend the dribble drive textbook Who's running out of time It'll beat the ten second count foul kick outside Heffernan for three too strong and the rebound battle for and a foul call the floor against Portland Hidalgo battling among the trees down low in the rebounding action the ball falls right to him Good position inside there battling to go to the line he earned those two foul shots and I'll go with the line for veto Gary Mugisha call for the foul I'll go trying to untie this game He does review back in for Portland's number two Kennedy Charles returning back in as well And I'll go now on the score book He's the sixth South Portland player to score two for Hidalgo on the season 57.1% from the line.

But games I've seen in the postseason he's been money south Portland by two going to be here.

Well this team will keep it Jesse Cam is coming back in now Sam Esposito replaced with a beer was guarded by Manny Hidalgo threw a beer up and Argos pestering him throwing a beer.

Well, pass that off the baseline taking on Jackson's Jackson might going to touch on that beer got the rebound and that shot won't go either Jackson skied to the tonight roomy Joe Jackson listed at five foot 11 playing much bigger than that down there around the basket defensively you see him sky to challenge that one no foul called he's able to collect that ball pick up the foul call Thomas got the foul on the rebound That's two on him Hidalgo placing back down the court his team with a two point lead 43 seconds to go in the third quarter Give me the Ben Smith one last shot 33 seconds till the horn No red riots out of possession era we love to score at the buzzer and get the ball right back It was playing pass was it all go down to 20 seconds Jim can't get past Ruger Beerwah is out to challenge him attacking with 10 seconds to go Cam in the paint Threw it up and hit it What an acrobatic shot by Jaden Kim at halftime Rob we talked about both of these teams needing somebody to step up and be a scorer here in the second half Jaden Kim saying I am that guy You see here he's knocked down three pointers gets hoop and harm here as a chance for a traditional three point play with eight points in the quarter for Jaden Kim it sounds like it must be his birthday to here Rob the student section serenading him at the line usually that's a distraction tactic by the other set of fans but that's all fallen singing him shooting for a five point lead and that's what he's just given his red riots nine points for him just here in the third quarter.

8 seconds to work the Bulldogs coming in quickly look at Garrett will give shot.

He fell heavily, but he's helped up and he'll be held right to the charity stripe.

Lot of contact around the basket here, say rookie of the year in transition.

This goes all kinds of contact he'll go to the line 42 for the Bulldogs he showed Mugisha at the line he's a senior with long range shooter or he can do for the charity stripe down five he gets one more review back in he'll give Remy Giovanni a brief break 23 and Smith will get a breather as well Veto Gary Mugisha one more that doesn't fall either The heave at the buzzer just a little short The South Portland Red Riots have a five point lead and the end of the fourth quarter back with the conclusion after this.

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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 heading into the fourth quarter, South Portland were the lead in the basketball a five point advantage heading down the stretch.

Who's going home with the gold ball?

Which side of the bridge will take it home?

We're underway in the fourth.

Jaden Kim, who was the hero for South, born in the third and only in the basketball.

Andrew Heffernan Galarraga baseline banana right there and a foursome outside throwing into the back court.

That'll turn it over to the Bulldogs Turnover on the first possession by the red riots.

Portland, on the other hand, taking much better care of the ball.

We mentioned those eight turnovers in the first quarter, just one turnover since Portland's offensive efficiency.

Much better here in the second half, down five points, though.

Born in this early stage of the fourth quarter to cut into that or at least not sink further behind Thomas.

Off the glass.

No, all the way back out.

Great.

Keep by to our tour steps around and hints about the physicality by the smallest guy on the court Brady to or gets after that offensive rebound sticks to put back and he's got his club back within three we sandpaper Brady to Alex Ben Smith stops and pops and hits the answer for the 61 senior for the red riots.

13 points now for Ben Smith game high south Portland back up by five Toure scored and Smith answered immediately Thomas picked up by Galarraga There's a matchup Galarraga wins that that's off as his fingertips continue to be impressed with Galarraga playing defense without fouling being physical without racking up those fouls and they need him to.

He's really their only guy with that much height to battle with Portland fakes going a fantastic job.

He plays such an important role on the glass against the Portland team that he's so good at rebounding at both ends of the floor.

Jaydon Kim turning on the jets the kick outs Galarraga Oh and that's off the iron The rebound out of bounds last touched by Donato It stays with South Portland And one Jackson holding up one finger calling the play here See what the red riots have plant Kim almost lost to Kennedy Charles Charles got two cracks at it Smith belong to Barry this and Smith stops and coughs a long ball and knocks it down 16 points for the senior That's a seven point lead foul call against the aforementioned Smith You see him bouncing out there six fouls now against south Portland So after the next one the Bulldogs will shoot the rest of the way and that might be a factor see in the replay here Ben Smith all kinds of fired up after knocking down that big three ball on the other end a little too aggressive on defense trying to steal it back 82 her junior dribbling underneath took on Galarraga That's asking a lot Jackson lost it got it back Oh great Keep the blind pass somehow found teammates Smith around the Jackson screen He'll shoot And a man right in his face Jessie Davis couldn't have done any more than he did defensive Lee and Smith nailed the shot anyway for a nine point lead and stuck right in his face.

Smith will not be denied 18 points this time getting precious for the Bulldogs Now traveling violation call against tour and the red riots have momentum here in the fourth and that's why the Bulldogs will take a timeout high school quiz show me season six is about to begin.

16 teams from across Maine are 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.

Born a high school quiz show tied with the host of that show Showing Love, seeing the teams battle it out and 16 teams across the state.

Brunswick Saint Dom's Gould Brewer won last year.

Deering, Yarmouth, Falmouth.

Coney Wells Noble, Bangor, Fort Kent, John Barb's Marshwood North Yarmouth Academy in Windham.

We've got the entire state covered.

Who was the champ last year?

They knocked off Bangor, and you can see how well you know Maine history and trivia with a viewer question of the week.

Again, it starts Thursday, March 23rd back to back episodes for the first four weeks.

And we start off with Brunswick and Saint Dom's Academy and 8:00.

And Gould Academy will take on the defending champs Brewer.

The winning team will see as $1,000 for their school's project graduation nine point lead South Pole and is taking charge here in the fourth quarter at Portland in their time out probably talking defensive strategy here they've been changing up their zones defensively probably time to go man to man here for the rest of the game they can bring pressure they've only got 14 fouls their zone pressed each team with three timeouts remaining if that's going to be important and that's last touch by tour to his feet by Smith a lot of respect do you notice every time the ball's on the floor those players are helping each other up?

Tons of respect between these two old time foes.

They're really getting after it tonight.

Both sides respecting doubt about each other.

Brady, too, is going to need an ice bath after this one.

He certainly is.

Jalen Jackson around Charles.

Charles catches up.

Jaden Kim wouldn't take that shot.

Jackson, he's been kept quiet, but he can heat up in the blink of an eye.

He's trying to out Galarraga outside Jackson baseline has some room there and he scores count the basket going to get an end one here Jalen Jackson puts the ball on the floor goes baseline see the defender sets up too late That's blocking foul And one Jackson makes that tough shot two for the in one opportunity he just it over Donato and he and give his team the lead of 12 Janet Jackson Jackson the McDonald's all star MVP is all tournament he's got the red riots up by a dozen times starting to be a concern for the Bulldogs with four 24 to go they need buc Thomas outside Kennedy Charles they'll hand that off to Brady to her to or underneath taken away here come the red riots Ben Smith getting on the floor to knock away that ball for the turnover and Kim Smith almost kept in bounds by Remy Joe wanting and that was going to hustle over and talk about this one while they're talking let's talk to Gregg Levinsky.

Yeah guys there's been so much talk about the South Portland team last year and there is noise about Jaylen in terms of his role on that team.

Was he the third guy, the third real whatever it is I think this year he's proven so much and what a what a season for him.

Obviously, Ben Smith the biggest one tonight.

But there's been no doubt that Jackson has the confidence and has led this team really, really far, said last game he doesn't feel pressure.

He doesn't seem to feel any here tonight.

I like it with him tonight, too, is he's not carrying the bulk of the scoring.

He doesn't matter to him.

He just wants to win.

Kim, he's doing the scoring and does some more.

He hits the bullseye and he brings South Portland closer to back to back go balls Jaden Kim knocks down another three ball a 15 point lead as the red riots largest son beginning the sat on Portland Portland down by 15 their offense just isn't really structured to score points in a hurry like this they're going to have to let it all hang out here over the last three 28 south Portland meanwhile defense and rebounds let's play defense let's box out was end possessions with rebounds against this Portland offensive attack they're so close now they can feel at the south going red riots looking to go back to back for the first time since 1928 1929 they won three out of four back then they won in 26 as well in 1931 for that matter.

That's how long this rivalry has gone on.

The Portland Bulldogs first goal ball well South Portland won 22 of the Bulldogs one and 23.

These old foes is playing for a century battling out here tonight at the cross insurance arena with more gold on the line South Portland they got wags by Thornton Academy in mid January.

By 21 they had a big team meeting afterwards they talked about how we have to change our scheme and our style.

We have to play more unselfishly.

They've played fantastic, unselfish basketball here tonight, moving the basketball, finding the open hands and playing as a team who dropped off nine wins in a row since that meeting, looking to make a ten in the gold ball.

Big three on the way.

Buried by the nine.

Oh, that's a huge shot for the Bulldogs to try to get them back in this game.

They still trail by a dozen.

Well, that'll give them some hope and some life.

They might get the ball here.

They do.

The arrow is pointing down the floor the zone trap executed to perfection there by Portland.

That's just what they needed out of the timeout.

Knocked down a three ball, get a turnover, cap the ball back they need more of the same, though.

Still plenty of work to do for this Bulldogs team back outside.

Kevin Rugby here was a little bit of an opening try to exploit it.

Galarraga was there and he blocked the putback attempt by Jesse Thomas Kapanen got his man in the air and that'll earn him a trip to the line unless he traveled first up and he did it see on the replay Heffernan he knew what he wanted there.

He just slid into the contact with his feet in doing so and knew of the South Pole and fans think of that ball.

The Bulldogs bring it quickly back up the floor were again DiNardo back outside the two where he thought about it at Jackson right there waiting and the foul called a timeout which was timeout of the timeout so you see much contact or surprise surprise to hear that I thought I might be away from the player but just a timeout called by the Bulldogs to 29 to go down a dozen coach Joe Russo didn't like the looks of that offensive possession calls a quick 32nd time out here see if he can work the three scored try to set up an offensive set nobody's better than coach Joe Russo he's been doing this for a little while drawing up plays and find out where the main Basketball Hall of Fame goes.

Joe Russo numerous state championships here for the Bulldog broadcast the Maine State High School Basketball Championships were made possible by members since 1979.

Thank you to the tens of thousands of people who helped 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 at the Maine public dot org and click the big red donate button and thanks.

1979.

Guess who won the gold ball that year.

Also the South Portland Red riots two 25 away from doing it again Tour dogs cannot waste much time in these possessions and that's tied up it's a jump ball in this time the south born ran riots how possession Portland Oregon full court press here they have no choice they need the ball back and they need to back quickly and they might get it back.

They do the steal by tour look at tour go the bounce pass across and a shot low fall what a bounce pass across by Brady to her just couldn't finish off the pretty one handed feed the bulldogs needed those two points Didn't get them We'll see it here on the drug A beer just couldn't finish right hand on the left side That would have got them back within ten back into their press and Jackson back He didn't deflect the shot but his presence certainly was felt by Ruger beer one and it's a kick called against Donato one 57 to go Bulldogs have no margin for error now it's a ball and trying to stick the knife in Jackson hits off the glass trying to draw contact and get to the line Didn't get the call but he got the basket anyway rugby arrow 43 bullseye look up here steps into it and splashes it through for a three ball and quickly back down the floor Heffernan doesn't hurry, doesn't need to.

He has to get rid of it now and does Smith Ilayaraja I'll call the time off time.

I'll call again the other job at a time.

I'll call this time by coach Billington we'll have one left call and has one timeout left actually excuse me off to left pull and has one timeout left of center is a timeout.

Do you know what I mean?

High school basketball fan was out of state or even out of the country.

Let them know they can watch any of the state final games we have broadcasting for free on our website live and on demand is games to be seen for free anywhere in the world.

Just tell them to head the Maine public dot org slash basketball and more basketball tomorrow night here in Portland.

Class B girls and boys tomorrow for the expo and up in Bangor, the season Dees will battle for a gold ball if South Portland can hang onto this one and Orono can win.

Tomorrow night we'll have a red riots double gold ball down here in Portland the next two nights.

These are things going on right now in Bangor Brats.

These yep, yep.

So Season B's tomorrow and up in those D games, Southern Aroostook continuing their juggernaut run through last year as they won both games champs again so Portland would like to join them with the gold ball here in 2023 Kim's been fouled and that's seven now on the Bulldogs and Jaden Kim with the line to try to add to this 11 point lead cam exploded for 12 points in the second half exactly what the red riots needed somebody to step step up and scoring Kim along with Smith Smith has 18 Kim has 12 trying to add to it here Jaden Kim the junior gets one of the most valuable player for tonight's game but the south Portland red riots while Jaden Kim's going to get my vote on the Rogers up there Smith's been great but I love what Kim's done in the second half of the ball against intense pressure he's knocked down shots it's been great Thomas kissed off the glass for two 12 points for Thomas Portland needs the ball back alley the back immediately and they get it back a foul called we'll go against Ben Smith for any tour was looking around to see if it was him seeing the replay again to her just no regard for his body out here this evening flying around making things happen pick up the push foul call on Smith and he'll walk down and shoot one on one for Tua and it doesn't fall Rebound grab by Jackson one minute to go Red Riots with no Smith He'll go over the line three point shot Got the crowd excited by Jackson Just free throws here for Smith We're not sure of the at Jackson running at three or Smith for the game he's had tonight and have to guess the latter and our big shot extends the lead to 11 Smith been sensational scoring throughout the ballgame that's since 19 point is looking for 20 here in the state championship it will be his last high school game ever the senior leaving it all on the floor Smith trying to shut the lights out in the Portland Bulldogs and he may have just done it 12 point lead the climb was already steep up hill for ball and now it's down right vertical not sure there's enough possessions left for this Bulldogs team but they'll try three on the way one in nails.

It's not going to go down without a fight.

Step back 31.

He didn't have much room for that knocks it down anyway.

I must call for the foul.

That's Ben Smith knocked down.

And Smith go back to the line again to kind of shake off that trip to the floor.

About 23.

Justin Thomas is third that's three on Thomas, nine now on Portland the last one and one of the night for the red riots Smith trying to restore a double digit lead and does not Jackson the way huge rebounds he's killing more precious seconds underneath Smith Galarraga for two it's the exclamation point is the cherry on top of the Sunday the south Portland red riots commerce underneath rejected by the rim rejected by Galarraga when he was also fouled he'll get to shoots but there's no possible way now back now for the Portland Bulldogs all red riots fans in full voice Thomas Justin Junior.

He'll be back next year to dominate the boards for the Bulldogs and get one more veto.

Gary Mugisha back in the senior with one more trip on to the floor for the Bulldogs.

That's the hardest part of these games.

Watching the seniors on the team.

That's not going to take home the gold watch.

The last seconds of their high school careers take away a rebound by Heffernan Galarraga.

8 seconds to go.

Hold on.

Is going down battling one he call for the foul they will keep fighting till the end Jackson imploring the South Portland faithful to get off their feet and cheer for a back to back state championship he's about to secure the line for James Johnson into the contest Sam Esposito back in for more on zero and then the 23 here comes calling backs Josh Carrasco is in MIKONAM though all seniors all get into experience this state championship on the floor at the end Galarraga is jubilant.

Josh meanwhile Jalen Jackson just wants to shoot once again in the middle of rain.

We've been playing a lot of music before in between games it's kind of fitting for a south roll and red Ryan's victory.

I think they said it best meet the new boss, same as the old boss.

The South Portland Red riots a back to back class double aa champs look out at midcourt.

It's a celebration going on.

South portland ecstatic.

They really earned this one.

Portland fought back in the third quarter and took the lead several times.

South Portland would not be denied their back to back gold bars for the first time in 94 years.

They won two consecutive state championships and knocking off their arch rival from across the bridge even sweeter yeah now the fun really begins for this Red Riot's team.

The sign of respect happens first.

These players wouldn't miss that.

And as you watch them go through the line, you'll see a lot of them stop and linger for a second.

Yeah.

It's not your typical quick handshake line.

Just a quick high five and move on these players definitely have mutual respect for how hard they just played this game and what the Battle of the Bridge means for these two communities.

Jenkins, come over here.

He's given Abby Davis a hug.

As we take a look at the top on red riots.

Abby Davis doing colorful radio tonight.

As coach.

A lot of these players want a sign of respect.

That is, you'll find your coach, you work with Ray you and come give him a hug to.

So join the celebration as well.

Get the ladders out over there, sharpen up the scissors.

So they need the sharp ones here tonight.

Gabe Galarraga doing everything out here tonight.

He was also cleaning up some water out here at half court.

Assistant coach says go cut down the nets, big fella.

I'll take care of this for you.

That's what they have worked so hard to win tonight right there on display.

Prosperous.

He the first man up the ladder.

Manning this year is the 61 senior Collin Banks and other senior up there to join him cause the problem is for the red riots is no one started to cut down the net at the other end so they're going to leave these guys up there waiting in the wall.

They didn't practice this they they did it last year they did it in the regional final but they're thinking up here could use a little work many Hidalgo's up to start things off at that particular basket making the first incision they knocked off Stanford in the quarterfinals defeated scott rowe in the semifinals and had to avenge a couple of regular season losses to thornton academy in the regional finals.

Took control in the third quarter outscoring Thornton Academy 21 11.

What was the third quarter again tonight wasn't it brandon yeah yeah.

Portland really came back in that third quarter.

They came out of the locker room on fire and retook the lead and south Portland just had to dig deep as they had to do all season talk about this team and this program had to replace the kind of talent they had to replace with Owen Maloney and J.P. Estrella.

Knowing Hobbs leaving the program, they just reloaded.

They changed up their schemes a little bit better, more guard oriented this year.

But here they are again, same place as last year.

State champs won a way to finish the season two ten straight victories down the stretch and not Germany.

But we're talking about South Berlin back in January.

As far as we knew, they were good, but gold ball good.

I'm not sure that was on the forefront of a lot of people's minds.

There were some who picked them, but heading into the tournament, they became a much more popular pick because they're playing their best basketball of the season.

And that just continued at the Civic Center into the tournament.

Of course, here tonight at the Cross Insurance Arena, their coach, Millington, said they were nine and three, and he said it was amazing because we're not playing very good offense.

We're not playing very good defense is at the same time at that team meeting we talked about after the Thornton Academy loss and they changed up some schemes.

He's been a matchup zone guy for years.

He said, nope, that's not working for us.

We've got to go to man to man credit to Coach Millington, able to change up his schemes on the fly.

He's done a fantastic coaching job this year and his entire tenure in South Portland.

He adds another gold ball to the trophy case down there, and Jalen Jackson night.

He didn't do it on the scoresheet like he usually did, but he did so many other things.

Tonight, he's not really preoccupied with how many points he scores.

He's concerned about winning, and he helped his team do that tonight.

And he will take that last little strand of nets, cut it down a little hard time with that.

But he's got it.

And once Ben Smith is ready, you're looking at him right now.

The party will be set to star for the red riots.

They've locked eyes and they are celebrating on the floor of the cross arena.

19 wins on the season.

The Bulldogs will finish 16 and six.

The red riots, 19 and three teams will head to their respective benches.

The Bulldogs are already there respectfully waiting also on a down to the House Mic and Principals Association basketball committee from high school focusing on retired athletic administrator working hard to lead the Bulldogs from the high school and the red riots and local high school.

I've to play in a regional basketball tournament.

Both communities should be proud of your efforts in reaching today's class championship game.

At this time we're Joe Russo, the head coach of Portland High School, and his assistants, Dan Le Gage, Joe Giordano and Joe Johnson.

Please come forward to help present the individual awards to team members manager Joseph Miller Sophomore Ben Blake Sophomore Drew Venu sophomore Devin Walker Junior Kevin Brugha Beer while Junior Br Peter Gorham, Gisha Junior, Eddie Antonio Junior James Johnson Junior Jesse Thomas Senior Seniors Hayden Bachman Kennedy Charles Senior Brady Tour Senior Remy Joe Won a Senior Angel Oriana Senior.

Patricia Donato and Senior Sam Esposito were the captains from Portland High School.

Please come forward with the sea the captains of Portland High School.

Please come forward on behalf of the Maine Principals Association.

It is our pleasure to present to you this plaque emblematic of the Class A State Runners Congratulations at this time.

Kevin Millington, the head coach at South Portland and his assistants Connor Hasson, Tanner Hyland, Nick Costigan, Ryan Porter.

Please come forward to help present individual awards to team members Manager Henry Sierra Sophomore Carmine Susi Sophomore Manny Hidalgo Sophomore Tom Balog Junior Jayden Kim Junior Gabe Galarraga Junior Nafees Paget Junior Chris Keane Senior Jalen Jackson Senior Micah Ball Senior Ben Smith Senior Collin Banks Senior Joey Hanlon Senior Drew Farley Senior Andrew Heffernan and Senior Josh Speranza.

Oh would coach Kevin Millington please come forward to accept the game ball were the captains from South Portland High School?

Please come forward on behalf of the Maine Principals Association.

It is our pleasure to present to you the class the state championship gold ball.

Congratulations on an outstanding season the elation you only feel from a championship win adds with the red riots a feeling right now.

Employers will correct myself real quickly.

They didn't take 95 years to win back to back.

They won it in 79 and 80 as well.

Coach Brown.

Coach Maines reminded me of that on social media.

I guess we won 13 they lost in the shuffle a little bit.

We'll come back and rejoin the party here in the cross arena right after this.

On Maine Public Television, production of high school basketball on Maine Public Television is made possible by people like you and by 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 chinchorro 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 Only one school has had this scene as many times as self-rule and that's the Bangor Rams are now tied on 13 state championships or the baker's dozen number 13 one tonight by South Portland over Portland 52 42 I think Portland in some ways got the game they wanted they they kept the red riots scoring down a little bit but they couldn't get the points either.

Tough Rollins defense came to play tonight just like their offense did yeah.

Portland had eight turnovers in that first quarter as they fell behind.

They really limited that number.

They had just ten in the ballgame, so just two after the first quarter, which allowed them to claw back in and take the lead in the third quarter.

But really impressed with South Portland and their grit scored 16 or excuse me 21 points in that fourth quarter to lock down another state championship.

I think the guys got the best job tonight as Greg Levinsky gets to talk to the winners and that's where he is right now.

Let's send it down to the floor.

I do get to talk to the winners, the repeat winners here are Jaden Kim, Ben Smith, Jalen Jack and some of the birthday boy.

Right.

Big birthday for you.

Big game obviously in the third quarter had that big bucket down the stretch going into this one for you and how proud of you of this team.

I'm so proud.

We worked all year for this starting the season.

We had many doubters, many haters, you know, didn't think we were going to be back but we're back and we're here.

Maybe Kevin Durant out here.

I mean, he didn't miss a shot, I don't think, and hit the midrange jumpers like crazy.

You got a great game in the regional to what's been going for you.

These last couple of performance is really mostly confidence.

And these guys trusting me with the shot, you know, giving me the ball, letting me play my game and they call me a mid-range version.

That's my shot.

So if I get there, I can make it and I can make a lot of shots.

It's very comfortable, right?

Yeah, it is.

You said we're back.

What's the word now?

I don't really know if I have to say anything.

To be honest.

It's back to back.

You know, nobody thought we're going to be here.

Everybody said you lost too much this and that you can't really say anything more.

You know, I'm saying it's it's it's a wrap.

Now, I know you're the leader, but obviously a full team effort.

So many guys contributing throughout the season.

What have to say about the rest of everyone else?

I'm so proud of these guys, man.

Everybody stepped up.

I mean, we didn't lose a lot, obviously, but so everybody stepped up.

Obviously, these two had huge games.

We couldn't have won it without them.

We couldn't have won it without Gabe on the glass.

So I'm just so proud of everybody.

It's not a one.

It's not a one man show.

It's it's everybody.

Some of these guys, it's a battle of bridge.

But the goal ball must do a lot better than just the battle of the bridge win, for sure.

I mean, they beat us in football two times, so it's good to get our payback.

And I'd rather I'd much rather get our payback with this.

Congrats guys.

Let's find Coach Millington if he's around somewhere we'll find him eventually.

You know, he's being interviewed.

So you know what we're going to do here?

We're going to hope that he finishes up real quick.

If not, maybe we'll send it back to Rob and Brandon at the table.

We'll chat for a little bit and see if maybe he does get to talk to Coach Billings.

Give us his wave if you do, but great game tonight.

For South Portland overall and claiming that gold ball will run down the individual numbers while we have a chance to go ahead and do that for the Portland Bulldogs, Kevin Kruger Burwell had seven points Brady two had six points, Petro Donato had five points, Remy Watney had 11 and Jesse Thomas had a team high 13 big points on the other side for the victors, the South Portland Red Riots, we had Gabe Galarraga with three points but a fantastic defensive effort.

Joey Hanlon stuck a three ball in the first quarter for three points Manny Hidalgo had two Jaden Kim added 12 Jalen Jackson the all star had 12 points in the winning effort and Ben Smith had a big 20 points for the game high.

Kevin Millington made his way over to Greg Levinsky Let's send it back down and talk to the winning coach back to back.

I mean how's that sound I love it.

I love it.

Yes.

It's real special for sure.

Got performances from everyone.

Obviously, Jalen played pretty well.

Jaden had a great game.

And Ben Smith, I mean, my God, what a tournament.

He's had what's what's how he's been able to do it.

Well, Ben's a really good player.

I mean, he he had a really good tournament.

He had a really good year.

And we we expected big things from him.

And he you know, he played big on the big stage, and that's huge.

And Jaden Kim, that's his birthday today.

So that's a heck of a birthday present and.

All right, what a birthday present for him.

Obviously, you did it last year.

Do it again this year.

We know the differences in the team.

Is this one feel different?

It does feel different.

It I mean, they both feel awesome.

They mean they're both special in their own way.

Last year we had to do it from the one seed that everyone on it, you know, gunning for us.

I mean, people are still gunning for us this year because we were the defending champs.

But we had to grind a lot.

And I just real proud of how hard we know we got down and we came back and that was kind of who we were, both the favorite and the underdog in some ways.

And then obviously, Jalen, what a season for you guys.

What can you say just about not even this just this year, but his career?

He's a winner.

He's a winner.

Is he just you know, we saw that with the buzzer beaters.

But, you know, really last year, when he he's the one that changed his game down the stretch when we really started to play well and he changed his game in oh and opened up and JP opened up.

And then the same with this year when he starts impacting the game and all that, it weighs he just as a winner.

And tonight, he drew so much attention that allowed those guys to have a great game.

So congrats, coach.

Thank you, our guys, back to you.

Thanks very much, Greg.

One more night of high school basketball on one game down a one series session down here in Pau on the class B girls and boys tomorrow night.

It's over at the Portland Expo and up in Bangalore.

The Class C games taking place, girls and boys of the cross insurance center.

So we're not done with high school basketball here on Maine Public Television.

One more night for more gold balls to award one of the Mike Brandon Terrell Karen magnets.

In our color commentator tonight, Greg Lipinski, our sideline reporter, Nick Godfrey, our producer and the entire Maine Public Broadcasting Network crew.

My name is Robert Kennedy sang so long for Portland for the 13th time the south Portland Red riots our state champs 52 42 they won the class double AA gold ball over the Portland Bulldogs on Maine public television