Louisiana’s Ruston Holds Off Arizona’s St. Mary’s for Capitol City Classic Crown

Ruston High School from Louisiana won the Capitol City Classic boys basketball championship. They defeated St. Mary’s from Phoenix, Arizona 64-61 in Salem. The thrilling final happened on Tuesday night.

This victory marks the seventh time an out-of-state team has claimed the tournament title. According to High School On SI Louisiana, Ruston entered the game ranked No. 4 in the state.

A Late Rally and a Sturdy Response

Ruston appeared to be in control entering the fourth quarter. They held a 50-38 lead. St. Mary’s then mounted a fierce 13-0 run.

The Knights snatched a 51-50 lead. Ruston did not panic. They responded immediately to regain control.

The Bearcats were led by a dominant duo. Ahmad Hudson, a top two-sport recruit, had 20 points, 17 rebounds, and six blocks. Darren Ford scored 21 points and added eight rebounds and five assists.

Ford was named the game’s Most Valuable Player. He made several crucial free throws in the final minutes to secure the win.

Oregon Powers Prepare for Next Major Test

Other Oregon schools also secured trophies at the event. Tualatin, ranked No. 3 in the state, won the third-place game. They defeated Webster Groves from Missouri 71-62.

Sherwood won the fourth-place trophy. Nelson High School took the consolation title. The tournament serves as a key tune-up for a bigger event.

Many top teams now turn their attention to the Les Schwab Invitational. That tournament is the premier holiday event in the Pacific Northwest. Tualatin and Nelson will both compete there immediately after Christmas.

The Capitol City Classic championship cements Ruston’s status as a national contender. Their resilient performance against a talented St. Mary’s squad provides major momentum. All eyes now shift to the upcoming Les Schwab Invitational for the next chapter of the holiday basketball season.

Info at your fingertips

Who was named MVP of the boys championship game?

Ruston’s Darren Ford earned MVP honors. He led his team with 21 points and made key free throws late in the game to seal the victory.

How did other Oregon teams fare in the tournament?

Tualatin finished third, Sherwood placed fourth, and Nelson won the consolation title. These results set the stage for their next major tournament.

What was the most dramatic moment of the final?

St. Mary’s used a 13-0 run in the fourth quarter to take a brief lead. Ruston’s immediate response to regain control defined the championship contest.

Who won the girls divisions at the Capitol City Classic?

West Linn won the Tundra Bracket, defeating South Medford. South Salem won the Camry Bracket, ending Amity’s 35-game winning streak.

What tournament is next for these teams?

Several teams, including Tualatin and Nelson, will compete in the Les Schwab Invitational starting December 26th. It is a major West Coast holiday tournament.