The last two seasons have ended in disappointment for McEachern, losing in the state semifinals in 2016-17 and the state quarterfinals last season.
A strong start from Meadowcreek saw the defending state champions take a 15-12 lead late in the first quarter, but the Indians responded strong — as they have all season. A 16-2 run gave McEachern a 28-17 lead midway through the second quarter, one it wouldn't relinquish, holding off a strong second-half surge from the Mustangs.
Sharife Cooper battled foul trouble and fouled out late, but finished with 20 points and four rebounds for the undefeated state champions.
Isaac Okoro took over down the stretch with Cooper on the bench, making crucial plays on both ends of the court. The Auburn pledge finished with 16 points, four rebounds and four assists, while
Alyn Breed chipped in 15 points.
The Indians entered state tournament play as the favorites to capture their first state crown, but playoff losses have done major damage to their national standing in each of their past two years. The Indians reached the Top 5 in the national rankings in each of the two previous seasons before coming up short in the Georgia playoffs.
The Indians are 110-8 record over the past four years, putting a stamp on their rise to national prominence this season with a daunting schedule that gave this group the needed experience to win tough battles down the stretch.
McEachern's resume includes titles at the City of Palms Classic, Bass Pro Tournament of Champions and now the Georgia state crown as the new champions have proven themselves capable of beating anyone with a 9-0 record against teams featured in the Top 25 at some point this season.
The Indians (32-0) are a lock to receive their first invitation to GEICO Nationals from April 4-6, and should enter as one of the favorites.
Sharife Cooper, McEachern
Photo by Randy Kemp
