The reigning 3A champion Morgan Trojans came into the season with one goal in mind: To repeat as champions.
They knew that they could, and the other coaches in the classification knew, too, as the Trojans were awarded the No. 1 ranking in the preseason after returning most of last year’s championship team.
Nine of the returnees were seniors this season.
On Saturday night, the Trojans’ goal was realized, as they beat the American Heritage Patriots 64-51 in the 3A state championship game in wire-to-wire fashion in Cedar City.
The opening quarter was a fierce back and forth affair for the two region rivals who were facing each other for the third time this season after splitting the series 1-1 entering Saturday, but Morgan led 20-15 heading into the second quarter.
The Trojans then started and finished the second quarter strong to extend their lead to 12 at 36-24 heading into intermission. Morgan shot 57% from the field in the first half and was led by Bracken Saunders and Jake Hansen.
“You know, state championship game, they earned the right to be here,” said Trojans head coach Scott Hunt. “No. 1 seed team. They just need to believe in themselves and that they can be the best, and they came out with that mentality.
“Bracken and Jake Hansen were unbelievable. They showed great leadership. They were not going to back down, they were not going to be denied. We talked about that all season long.”
The Patriots did make things interesting in the third quarter as they cut the deficit to six at the end of the frame on a jumper from James Matsen, but Morgan got back down to business in the fourth quarter.
Of particular note, the Trojans went 12 of 13 from the free throw line in the fourth quarter to seal the deal as Hunt won the sixth state title in his 25-year career.
“Its unreal, man. I mean its just crazy. I’ve had a career that’s just been blessed over and over again,” Hunt said. “We grind and fight, we play hard, but the bottom line is I’ve been very lucky to have so many great kids that have played for me over the years, and one more time I’m just thrilled. I’m so lucky to have great kids.”
3A Boys All-Tournament Team
Bracken Saunders - Morgan - MVP
James Matsen - American Heritage
Jorgen Southwick - Richfield
Brek Griffin - Emery
Jake Hansen - Morgan
Mason Williams - Morgan