Lakeland FL- The Ponte Vedra Boys Basketball team defeated Winter Haven Thursday night 57-54 in the Class 6A Final 4 to advance to it’s first state championship in school history. Ross Candelino and Luke Pirris led the team in scoring both with 15 points on the night. JT Kelly scored 14 points in the state semifinal.
Ponte Vedra fell behind early in the game trailing by 5 points at the end of the first quarter 17-12. Winter Haven(23-8) was led by Isaac Celiscar who scored multiple baskets for the Blue Devils. He led all scorers with 16 points in the game.
However, Ponte Vedra would come roaring back thanks to the shooting of Ross Candelino and JT Kelly. They were able to make big shots from the outside, knocking down 3-pointrers in the game. Both Candelino and Kelly hit three 3-pointers in the game.
Luke Pirris would finish the deal. The talented senior was able to score baskets down low muscling his way past defenders. When his number was called to hit the shot from the outside he succeed, hitting a big 3-pointer himself in the game.
Head Coach Kevin Whirity keeps his remarkable third season with Ponte Vedra going as he guides the Sharks to their first championship game in school history. They will face a #1 seeded Martin County (26-4) team, who defeated Wharton 52-47 on Thursday in their state semifinal game. They were led by Ryan Davis who scored 18-points in the win.
Click here for a Ponte Vedra Basketball photo gallery
The game will be on Saturday at 5:30 pm, and can be followed in real time game updates on Duval Sports Twitter and Instagram accounts. It can be live streamed HERE
