Blythewood Bengals Repeat State Title

0:00On March 7th, Blathwood's girls basketball team just claimed their second straight state title in Class V of Division I, dominating Wando, 68-44 at Colonial Life Arena. The bangles overcame an early deficit to pull away in the second half, securing back-to-back championships after a gritty playoff run. This senior class arrived as 9th graders right after the program posted zero wins and 19 losses the prior season. They trusted the process, worked relentlessly, and transformed Blathwood into one of South Carolina's top teams over two years, knocking off strong, opponents like number two dormant and number four Maulden along the way. Coach Emily Schaefer noted the extra pressure of repeating, but her players rose to it. At halftime, with a slim three-point lead, she challenged the eight seniors to leave everything on the court, knowing it might be their last time in, Blathwood jerseys. They responded with fierce defense, especially shutting down Wando's top scorer after the break.

1:00Standout seniors led the charge, with Chase Thomas headed to South Carolina State, dropping 28 points in India Williams, committed to USC, Aiken, adding 20. Madison Thomas anchored the defense with eight steals and five assists, feeling a decisive third quarter that built an unbeatable 12-point edge. The wind caps an incredible journey for these bangles, now 25 and five on the season, while Wando ends at 22 and eight after a hot playoff surge. It's a story of grit and growth that will echo for years in Blathwood Hoops.