TRI-STATE , TOME AND WEST NOTTINGHAM COMPETE IN MIL FINALS

The Tome School opened Saturday night’s Mid-Atlantic Independent League season-ending championships as a repeat champion with a five-point victory against Tri-State Christian Academy’s Lady Crusaders at Cecil College. The TriState boys closed out the evening by battling West Nottingham for most of the final, but pulled away late for a 63-43 to claiming the championship crown.

For Tome, it was freshman Ainsley Carrillo stepping up to lead the Titans with 14 points in their 39-34 win to close out their head coach’s career. Seniors Alivia Carrillo and Landen Cain added eight and seven points respectively to close out their high school careers as well.

“It feels awesome for the fourth year in a row, all of high school, to be able to win the championship,” said Cain. “It is great to go out on a win with Coach Palmer. It is heartfelt and sad, but I am really glad I got to play on this team.”

It was an emotional win for Coach Jermaine Palmer as well, who fought to keep his squad focused as they worked their adversity throughout the season. “The plan fell apart 10 times and we had to revamp the plan, it is stressful, but it feels good. It is hard to beat a team three times and they came out to play,” said Palmer. “My freshman stepped up. This is my third year, three straight. This is my last year. I am going to follow my kids because they are in sports. So, this is it. Going out a winner and on top.”

Tessa Davis led the Crusaders and all scorers with 19.

Tri-State ran out to an early lead against West Nottingham in the boy’s matchup, but the Rams fought back. With the presence of West Nottingham big man Jonathan Aina causing problems in the paint, the Crusaders rode the hot hand of Jackson Sartin, especially beyond the arc, as they repelled multiple comeback attempts.

Tri-State held a single-digit lead when Aina fouled out in the second half and pulled away for their 20-point win. Sartin had a career night with 37 points and five three-pointers. Jonte Jenson add a dozen for the Crusaders. Aina led West Nottingham with 12 and Ray Tsai added 11.