By Dave Brousseau - BCAA Writer
LAKELAND – The Pompano Beach Blanche Ely Tigers boys’ basketball team can gain elite status among Broward County public schools.
Following the 67-45 victory over St. Petersburgh High in a Class 5A state semifinal on Wednesday, Blanche Ely can become the first in Broward with nine state titles and the first and only to win a championship un three different coaches.
First year coach J.R. McNabb would join Wade Edmond (1993) and Melvin Randall (Seven titles between 2007-2019).
Of course, the Tigers (19-9) would need to defeat Ponte Vedra (22-8) on Friday at the RP Center on Friday.
Ely was led by Kaleb Corbitt with 12 points and 10 rebounds, while Jayelen Jonas had 11 points, with eight coming on easy slams dunks.
The Tigers trailed 9-8 midway through the first quarter, then with all systems go went on a 12-0 to end the first quarter and never trailed again.
Despite the 22-point victory, the Tigers outscored St. Petersburg 42-20 in the paint and had a decisive edge on fast break points 18-2.
“We started out slow knot doing our job defensively,” said Blanche Ely coach McNabb. “They got a lot of points from the line. Once we dug deep and did our job, secure rebounds. Once we defend at a high level and take care of the ball, we’re a pretty good team.”
“Our best offense is our defense. We like to fly around and get back in transition. We’ve put together a competitive schedule. We’re back where Blanche Ely belongs, he added.”
Kalen Corbitt’s basket midway through the opening quarter gave the Tigers a 10-9 lead which they kept for the remainder of the first half.
Ely kept the lead for the remainder of the opening half, that included a 12-1 run to end the first quarter. Dylan Hanna and Jordan Corbitt each hit three-pointers as part of the run.
The Tigers held onto lead for 13:18 of the first half. They did a great job spreading the ball around with seven players scoring points.
Despite staying in front, the Tigers defense helped overcome their 10 turnovers.
“In the beginning we came out slow and fell behind,” said guard Justin Snell. “We’re a fast-paced team and like to run downhill. We knew we were the better team and came out in the second half to show it. The job isn’t done.”
The four slams by Jones also added energy to the Tigers’ big win.
“My teammates are like my family as they are always looking to me,” said Jonas. “This is a great feeling. This is my first time here and I love it.”
Blanche Ely improved to 4-0 all-time against St. Petersburg with all the wins coming pin the playoffs. The previous meeting was 73-58 Tigers win on Mar. 9, 2018 in a Class 8A state semifinal.
St. Petersburg (18-11) last state title came in 1933 defeating Tampa Plant 21-13, 92 years ago.
Dave Brousseau can be reached on X at @dbrouss76 – or via e-mail at:
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