OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – Just over two weeks ago, Fort Scott handed Johnson County its largest loss in the 107-game series history, 78-49. On Wednesday night, the Cavaliers avenged that loss with an 84-78 victory to advance to the Region VI Championship at Friends University in Wichita, Saturday, April 10th. Johnson County (15-5) will face Labette (12-7) for the title and a berth to the NJCAA National Tournament in Danville, Ill, April 20-24.
Jonson County jumped out to a 6-0 lead to start the game, and maintained that lead throughout the first 13 minutes before going a 20-0 run on their way to a 45-26 halftime lead.
Fort Scott made a few runs in the second half, but the Cavaliers always managed to push their lead back up to double digits. The Greyhounds hit a few buckets in the final seconds to pull within six before the buzzer sounded sealing JCCC's ticket to the region final.
"It was a really good team win," said JCCC head coach Rand Chappell. "Fort Scott is a very difficult team to play against, and I was proud how our team prepared and reacted to their pressure."
Johnson County got its usual production from their leading scorer and rebounder Jaland Whitehead. The sophomore forward from Grand Rapids, Mich., finishing with 21 points and eight boards, just shy of registering his 13th double-double of the season. He was 8-of-14 shooting and 5-of-7 at the free throw line. He also blocked three shots.
But the production Chappell received from guards Bing Haung and Seth Chargois were key to the Cavaliers success. Haung established new career highs with five 3-point baskets and 25 points, and Chargois registered his first career double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds. He also had five assists, a block and three steals.
"Bing stepped up and hit big shots to get us rolling in the first half, and made key free throws down the stretch." Chappell said. "I was proud of Seth's overall game. He led us in rebounding which was all about effort.
Sophomore guard Jaycson Bereal also had a productive night, finishing with seven points, nine rebounds, six assists, two blocks and two steals.
Freshman point guard Desi Williams added seven points, four boards and three assists.
Sophomore guard Zion Buckner and freshman forward Xavier Kahube provided six and five points off the bench.
Fort Scott had three players in double figures, led by Peter Simon with 17.