TO CONGRATULATE THE NEWBERRY HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM FOR CAPTURING THE 2014 CLASS AA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE AND TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND THE TEAM'S EXCEPTIONAL PLAYERS, COACHES, AND STAFF.

Whereas, fully determined to make the title trophy their own, the Newberry High School boys basketball team crowned a splendid 25-4 season by capturing the 2014 Class AA State Championship, dismantling Lake Marion 77-47 at Columbia's Colonial Life Arena on Saturday, March 8, 2014; and

Whereas, excitement over this title win was especially intense because it made school history, marking Newberry's first team state championship since 1981. With the biggest prize in South Carolina high school basketball on the line, the Bulldogs avenged two straight championship game losses, a 49-48 heartbreaker two years ago and a loss to Lake Marion a season ago. But this one was over before the half, and it was sweet redemption for nine Newberry seniors; and

Whereas, Head Coach Chad Cary and his assistant coaches, Adonis Hill and Mike Hughes, reaped the fruits of their dedicated labors as the title trophy was hoisted; and

Whereas, the House of Representatives takes great pleasure in saluting the young men of the Newberry High School boys basketball team for leading with excellence both in the classroom and on the court and expects to hear of continued great achievements in the years ahead. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, congratulate the Newberry High School boys basketball team for capturing the 2014 Class AA State Championship title and recognize and commend the team's exceptional players, coaches, and staff.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Principal Katrina Singletary and Head Coach Chad Cary.