Lake Clifton's senior leader and leading scorer Garry Jefferson
College Park, MD - Lake Clifton couldn't have came out more flat and Allegany couldn't have asked for a better start in their respective quest's to earn a spot in the 1A State title game. Although by the time the final buzzer sounded, the roles were reversed completely. Lake Clifton led by senior guard Garry Jefferson's who overcame a nightmare first half where he scored only two points, would will out the win over Allegany 58-51. Lake Clifton after trailing 29-18 at the half would use their vaunted defense to spark a 11-4 run to start the second half and wouldn't look back. Senior forward Rashad Hawkins (12 points/14 rebounds) would be the difference in the game turning third quarter as he owned the paint, scoring 8 points in the qtr and dominating on the boards. Then Lake Clifton leader Garry Jefferson (15 points) came through when his team needed him most, scoring in double figures including six straight clutch free throws with under a minute to go to seal the win while also holding Allegany star guard Mario D'Atri (18 points) in check. Lake Clifton's Joshua Parks would add 12 points while Jason Copman would post 12 points and 11 rebounds for Allegany. Lake Clifton will take on the winner of New Town/Joppatowne in the 1A title game Saturday.
Lake Clifton senior forward Rashad Hawkins was a force in the paint for the Lakers
Allegany floor leader Mario D'Atri finished with a game high 18 points