Columbus (Miami) secured a historic victory Saturday, defeating Sarasota 53-50 to become the first Florida team to win five consecutive state championships in the highest classification.
A Championship Run
Florida Atlantic signee Felipe Quinones led the Explorers with 15 points. Caleb Gaskins, a Miami signee, contributed 12 points and six rebounds, while freshman Cayden Gaskins added 11 points and seven rebounds.
The game came down to the wire, with Columbus receiving a technical foul with 13.6 seconds remaining. Quinones then made two free throws, extending the lead before Sarasota’s Johnny Lackaff responded with free throws of his own.
Lackaff, who scored a game-high 27 points, had a chance to tie the game at the buzzer, but his shot fell short.
This victory marks the 16th time a team has won five or more consecutive titles in a state’s highest classification, and the seventh time since 1980.
Columbus finished the season with a 26-6 record, riding a 12-game winning streak. Last season, the team won the national championship, the first team competing for a state championship to do so at Chipotle Nationals.
Sarasota (25-7) had reached the championship game after defeating Oak Ridge (Orlando) 53-48 in the semifinals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many consecutive state championships has Columbus won?
Columbus has won five consecutive state championships.
Who led Columbus in scoring during the championship game?
Felipe Quinones led Columbus with 15 points.
What was Sarasota’s record this season?
Sarasota finished the season with a record of 25-7.
As Columbus concludes this remarkable run, what impact will this sustained success have on future recruiting and the program’s continued pursuit of excellence?
