SAN ANTONIO, Texas (KFDA) - The Panhandle Panthers win the 2A DI boys basketball state championship game after taking down #10 San Augustine, 61-58, at the Alamodome.
The Panthers took a commanding 17-8 lead in the first quarter capped off by a Caden Armes three-ball at the buzzer.
San Augustine punched back in the second quarter, but Panhandle still kept their lead going into the half, 27-24.
It was a back-and-forth effort from both the Panthers and the Wolves, but Panhandle made it a five-point game going into the final quarter, never wavering, making huge free throws down the stretch and getting the 61-58 win.
Senior Caden Armes wins the 2A DI state MVP after scoring 17 points and five assists. Junior Cooper Brinkley finishes with 11 points and 11 rebounds while junior Luke Schmucker grabbed 11 points.
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The Panthers finish their season with an overall record of 27-6 in head coach Josh Strickland’s first season at the helm.
This is the Panthers’ first state title appearance and win. They join the Panhandle Ettes as 2025-26 state champions.
Panhandle boys basketball: Road to the Championship journey
| Round | Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Bi-District | Spearman | 59-36 |
| Area | #25 Hale Center | 75-70 (2OT) |
| Regional Semifinals | Seagraves | 63-41 |
| Regional Finals | Wellington | 52-39 |
| State Semifinals | #8 Waco Meyer | 59-33 |
| State Finals | #10 San Augustine | 61-58 |
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