The Columbia Academy Cougars are Class 3A state champions after controlling the action from start to finish against Carroll Academy in the title game at Canton Academy to win 53-37 Saturday night.
Columbia Academy (35-2) only trailed during the first minute of the game and suffocated Carroll’s offense.
In a career filled with dominant performances, Tate Duncan saved his best for when it mattered most with a double-double and scoring 21 points while blocking at least five shots. He consistently dominated the offensive glass and delivered a monstrous dunk in the first half that set the tone for the rest of the game.
Ras Pace, who went on an 8-0 run by himself at one point in the third quarter, had 16 points, and Cody Fortenberry had 14.
The Cougars will play in the MAIS overall tournament next, receiving a first-round bye. They will play Wednesday at Mississippi College against either the No. 2 team from 5A or No. 2 team from 4A.
