Champs again: Hopewell Indians win another state title

STRASBURG – After a dominating performance in a win over Stark County DD Friday, Coshocton County's Hopewell Indians needed one more win to make history.

The Indians got the job done Saturday, using a big third quarter to cruise past the Montgomery County Cougars 65-54 for their second straight state championship.

The Black Team won the state title in Division II this year after winning it in Division III last season.

"Montgomery County had a height advantage just like when we played Stark County on Friday," Indians head coach Devin Rivera said. "But we played strong defense and did a good job crashing the boards that led to several fast-break plays that kept the momentum of the game in our favor."

After a 14-14 first quarter, Hopewell built a 33-25 halftime lead, then used a 19-11 third quarter to build a 52-36 advantage that would never be relinquished.

Josh Noe had 25 points and K-Marr Cooper added 23 points to lead the Indians. Tanner Schie chipped in 12 points, Austin Saylor had three points and Jalen Berry had two points.

Rivera was thrilled to see the team reach its goal of repeating as champions this season.

"It was a great privilege and honor to coach these players and help lead them on a journey to success," he said. "The facial expressions of the players receiving their medals was a special moment and I know it's something they will remember for the rest of their lives."

The community also showed its full support as the Coshocton Sheriff Department, Coshocton Fire Department and Coshocton EMS welcomed the team with an impromptu parade through town.

The Red Team, which reached the state final four in Division V, also bounced back with a 52-29 victory in their consolation third place game Saturday.

Assistant coach Devin Smith was happy to see the Red Team bounce back after a crushing five-point defeat on Friday.

"It's been an amazing journey from the start of the season to this point," he said. "Even after our tough loss, the team rebounded and played well to get a strong victory."

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