State champs

Former Scott County Central standout Otto Porter has moved on to the college ranks, but that didn't stop his alma mater from going the distance on Saturday to win the Class 1 state championship.

The Braves, who have won four state titles in as many years, defeated Drexel 79-72 at Mizzou Arena. This year's championship was the program's 16th overall.

Porter, who just finished a stellar first year with the Georgetown University Hoyas, was an instrumental part in Scott County Central's last three championships. But this year's team was led by Porter's cousin, Dominique Porter, who had 28 points and 14 rebounds in the championship game. Like his cousin, Dominique Porter finishes his high school basketball career with three state championships.

Scott County Central wasn't the only Southeast Missouri team to take home a championship this weekend. The Charleston boys basketball team won the Class 3 state title with a 79-73 win over Hogan Prep. Senior Greg Tucker was the leading scorer for the Bluejays in the championship game with 27 points.

Congratulations to both of these teams. Championship teams must do a number of things right to finish the season on top. Hard work, talent and teamwork are must-haves. Both of these teams were up to the task and now return home as state champs.