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A Historic Comeback Seals First-Ever Title

By FAB44TV Insider

In a heart stopping finale at Bank OZK Arena, the Benton Panthers clinched their first-ever 5A Boys State Championship with a dramatic 58–57 victory over Maumelle. Trailing by four points with just 17 seconds remaining, the Panthers orchestrated a remarkable comeback to etch their names in Arkansas high school basketball history.

The Final Moments

The championship game reached its climax when senior Elem Shelby sank two clutch free throws, narrowing the deficit to one. Following a turnover by Maumelle on the inbound, Terrion Burgess seized the moment, driving through defenders to score the go-ahead layup with four seconds left on the clock. The arena erupted as Benton secured the win.

Terrion Burgess: MVP Performance

Junior forward Terrion Burgess delivered a stellar performance, earning the 5A State Tournament Most Valuable Player honors. He contributed 18 points and five rebounds, showcasing his prowess on both ends of the court.

Burgess, a four-star recruit, has been a cornerstone for Benton, bringing experience from previous state finals appearances and demonstrating leadership throughout the season.

Supporting Cast Shines

Senior Harrison Prickett led all scorers with 22 points, providing consistent offense and veteran leadership. Freshman Anthony Spratt added 11 points, including crucial baskets that kept Benton within striking distance.

Harrison Prickett with a Senior Statement

In the biggest game of his career, Harrison Prickett saved his best for last. The senior forward led all scorers with 22 points, attacking the rim, owning the midrange, and defending with heart. From the first whistle to the final buzzer, Prickett played like a man determined to bring a title to Benton.

“Harrison’s our warrior,” said Coach Hendrix. “He’s the soul of this team. And that performance was one of the gutsiest I’ve ever seen.”

Following the championship, Prickett confirmed his commitment to continue his basketball career at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), where he plans to bring the same toughness and leadership that defined his high school run.

“I gave everything I had for Benton,” said Prickett. “Now it’s time to bring that same energy to Pine Bluff.”

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Is Anthony Spratt the Future of the Panthers?!

Only a freshman, Anthony Spratt already looks like the future of Arkansas basketball. Nationally ranked as a Top 10 player in the Class of 2028, Spratt showed poise well beyond his years in the state championship game, scoring 11 points and delivering under pressure.

“Anthony is different,” said Coach Hendrix. “He sees the floor, competes on every possession, and never shies away from the moment.”

With Burgess graduating and Spratt rising as a national prospect, Benton will need new leaders to step up for another serious run. Spratt will be a key piece in that journey.

“I’m here to win more,” Spratt said. “This was just the beginning.”

Coach’s Q&A with Dexter Hendrix

Q: Coach, how does it feel to bring Benton its first-ever state basketball title?

Hendrix: “It’s a blessing. These kids have worked so hard for this moment, and to see them finish the job the way they did — with heart and toughness — that’s what Benton basketball is all about.”

Q: What was going through your mind in the final seconds of that comeback?

Hendrix: “Trust. We preach it every day. Trust each other. Trust the system. And that’s exactly what they did. They believed. And they executed.”

Q: Terrion, Harrison, and Anthony all stepped up. What can you say about their roles?

Hendrix: “They’re special. Terrion is a finisher and competitor. Harrison is the heartbeat. And Anthony — that kid is different. He’s got next, no doubt.”

Q: What’s next for this program?

Hendrix: “We don’t hang our hats on one banner. We build. We grow. And we get back to work.”

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Season Overview

• Record: 30–3

• Key Players:

• Terrion Burgess (Jr., F)

• Harrison Prickett (Sr., F)

• Anthony Spratt (Fr., G)

• Elem Shelby (Sr., G)

• Javarious Russell (Jr., G)

Under the guidance of Head Coach Dexter Hendrix, the Panthers demonstrated resilience and determination, culminating in a championship that will be remembered for years to come.

This story is supported by Go Grasshopper USA – Proud to support the hustle behind the hardwood.
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