Jemison’s boys team won its first Chilton County Basketball Tournament championship since 1994—and in the process broke rival Chilton County High School’s streak of nine consecutive titles.

The Panthers, who entered as the tournament’s top seed, won Saturday at host CCHS, 51-31.

JHS led by just three points at halftime, 18-15, in a game that included several hard fouls and the referees calling both teams to midcourt at one point for a warning.

Chilton’s physical play forced Jemison out of its usual fast-paced attack that can rack up points in a hurry, but the hosts also had trouble scoring because Jemison’s athleticism and length forced its opponents into deep shot attempts that are not their strength.

Seniors Trey Bryant and Jalen Hardnett led Jemison’s effort with 12 points each. Austin Lovette came off the bench to score 10 points, all in the second half.