Chargers Build Unshakable Early Advantage (Image Credits: Pixabay)
Henderson — The Clark Chargers claimed the Class 4A Southern Region boys basketball title with a convincing 77-62 triumph over the Legacy Longhorns on Saturday at Foothill High School.
Chargers Build Unshakable Early Advantage
Clark wasted no time asserting control. The Chargers opened with an 8-0 run, capped by an alley-oop dunk to star forward Devan Christion. That effort propelled them to a 21-11 lead after the first quarter.
Christion dominated the opening half, scoring 14 points as Clark extended its margin to 41-28 at halftime. The Desert League champions maintained double-digit separation for most of the contest, showcasing the maturity that has defined their 13-game winning streak.
Legacy Fights Back but Chargers Respond Decisively
Legacy mounted its strongest push in the second half. The Mountain League top seed chipped away with an 8-2 spurt to start the third quarter and sank key 3-pointers late in the frame.
A layup by Zayden Jeffries trimmed the deficit to 60-52 with over six minutes left in the fourth. Clark coach Brent Rothman praised his team’s poise: “We just stayed disciplined mentally. We stuck to the game plan and focused on hitting singles instead of trying to hit home runs.”
The Chargers answered with a devastating 14-0 run, attacking the rim relentlessly. Christion sealed the surge with a one-handed dunk off a turnover, restoring a comfortable cushion.
Standout Performances Fuel Clark’s Victory
Devan Christion, an Akron commit, led all scorers with 22 points and hauled in 15 rebounds. Guards Amir Wright and CJ Edwards provided crucial support, tallying 16 and 14 points respectively.
Christion credited his backcourt mates for easing defensive pressure. “Teams definitely key in on Devan… but our guards are so steady and so solid,” Rothman noted. “All four of them can pass, dribble and shoot.”
On the other side, Jeffries paced Legacy with 16 points while Jordyn Perdue added 14. The loss snapped a 16-game winning streak for the Longhorns, who had rallied past Las Vegas High in the semifinals.
- Clark top scorers: Devan Christion (22 pts, 15 reb), Amir Wright (16 pts), CJ Edwards (14 pts)
- Legacy leaders: Zayden Jeffries (16 pts), Jordyn Perdue (14 pts)
- Final score: Clark 77, Legacy 62
- Halftime: Clark 41, Legacy 28
- Clark record: 20-5; Legacy: 23-8
State Tournament Beckons for Both Sides
Clark earns the South’s No. 1 seed for the four-team 4A state tournament at Spanish Springs High School in Sparks, starting Friday with semifinals. Legacy joins as the No. 2 seed.
This marks an upgrade from last season, when Clark edged Legacy 88-79 in overtime for third place and the final state berth. “Last year we were the wild card… our goal is to win the whole thing,” Rothman said.
The Chargers return much of last year’s state-qualifying roster, blending experience with unselfish play. Their resilience through a demanding region tournament week stands out.
Key Takeaways:
- Clark’s 14-0 fourth-quarter run proved decisive against a resilient Legacy squad.
- Devan Christion’s double-double anchored a balanced attack led by versatile guards.
- Both teams advance to state, setting up potential northern matchups.
Clark heads north with momentum and a championship pedigree. How far will the Chargers go this time? Tell us your thoughts in the comments.
