New Hanover dashed the Trojans’ hope for a state title to cap their undefeated season Feb. 25 in the third overtime of the playoff game 94-92. However, the Garner Magnet High School varsity men’s basketball team had an amazing run, completing an undefeated regular season and winning the conference title for the fourth consecutive year.

Trojan pride was alive and well in the Feb. 23 matchup against Hoke County. By the end of the first period, an Emanuel McClain shot put Garner just behind the Bucks 20-17.

Garner played a tough defense, forcing turnovers and causing traveling violations. The Trojans scored five unanswered and a Gavin Wilson 3-pointer would tie the ballgame at 30. Just before the half, Garner was down by three. A deep pass to Wilson brought the Trojans within one, going to the locker room 35-34.

The Bucks furthered their lead by the end of the third quarter, 50-43.

In the final minutes of the fourth, Cameron Redd put one up and pulled the Trojans ahead 64-62. The Bucks called a time out with 57.6 seconds left on the game clock. The Bucks’ shot to tie the game and a couple missed opportunities for the Trojans forced overtime.

Dominique Reed pulled the Trojans away 70-66. The Bucks nailed a three-point shot, coming within one point of the lead. But the Trojans hung on to the lead for a 70-69 victory.

The Trojans ended their season overall 26-1.