(KNSI) – The Section 8AAA Final was an epic game that hardly anyone was able to watch in person.
In front of a small crowd at Melrose High School, Alexandria and Apollo needed everything from their athletes.
Alexandria was winning the game after the first half by the score of 43 to 42 behind stellar defense and clutch shooting.
Alexandria and Apollo battled back-and-forth throughout the second half and with one minute left the game was tied at 70-apiece.
Apollo had the ball with one minute to play and they held the ball for one final play.
Eagles’ Head coach Jason Allen called a timeout with just over 20 seconds left to go and he must have drawn up the perfect play.
Michael Gravelle dribbled down the left side and found Thomas Diew with some space and off the dribble, he found just enough room and made the winning basket.
Diew was also fouled but he missed the free-throw and Alexandria had one last chance.
Alexandria dribbled down and heaved the final shot that would have won it for them but it fell short.
With the 72-70 victory, St. Cloud Apollo will head to the Minnesota State Basketball Tournament, if they play it, of course.
Chang Hoth finished with 26 points and four rebounds and was hot from downtown in the first half.
Hoth was named the All Star Trophy and Awards Player of the Game for his efforts.
If the MSHSL decides to go through with the basketball tournament, the KNSI Sports Network will be there.