Lakeland Fl- Impact Christian Academy gave it their all, but Sagemont proved why they are back-to-back state champions. In a hard-fought Class 1A Final Four matchup, Impact fell 66-53, despite keeping it close for most of the game.
A Strong Start for Impact
Impact came out ready to compete, leading by two points after the first quarter. However, Sagemont quickly responded, taking a 10-point lead early in the second. Impact battled back, cutting the deficit to just four at halftime, trailing 32-28. Senior Sterling Moody led the way with nine points at the break.
48-42 Impact trails Sagemont 4th qtr Class 1A Final 4 pic.twitter.com/xuaS5Q9Wc1
— Duval Sports (@DuvalSports) February 25, 2025
A Close Battle in the Second Half
The third quarter was another tight contest, with Impact staying within striking distance. The Lions trailed by seven at one point but refused to back down. With 4:20 left in the game, Impact cut the lead to just one, making it 51-50. It looked like they might pull off the comeback, but Sagemont had other plans.
Sagemont Closes it Out
Down the stretch, Sagemont found another gear, pulling away to secure the victory. Matt Able, who had 12 points at halftime, finished the game with an impressive 25 points. Able averages 20.4 points per game and is committed to the University of Miami. With the win, Sagemont advances to their third straight state championship game, aiming for a three-peat.
Looking Ahead for Impact
Despite the tough loss, Impact has plenty to be proud of. Moody finished his senior season with a solid 14-point performance, while Ronald Clark also added 14 points. Jeremiah Jones knocked down three three-pointers, contributing nine points.
While Moody will be graduating, Impact’s future remains bright. Clark, Jones, and Frandy Perez will return next season, bringing valuable Final Four experience to an already talented squad. Ronald Clark, averaged 13.9 points per game, and Jeremiah Jones, averaged 11.7 points per game this year.
A Coaching Milestone
Head Coach Ben Jones has built something special at Impact. With over 200 wins in the past decade, he has established himself as one of the winningest boys’ basketball coaches in Northeast Florida. His leadership has helped shape a competitive program, and with key players returning, Impact will be looking to make another deep playoff run next season.
Though the season didn’t end with a championship, Impact proved they can compete with the best. With a strong core returning, don’t be surprised to see them back in the Final Four again.
