The boys’ varsity basketball team of TMI – The Episcopal School of Texas won their district championship with a narrow defeat of San Antonio Christian Schools (SACS) on Feb. 16 at home. Relying on teamwork, the Panthers came back from five points down in the fourth quarter to clinch the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) District 3A-4A title, besting the Lions by 59-56.

Standout freshman LeSean Brown, the recipient of a four-year, full-tuition Alkek Scholarship, scored 23 points, dished out eight assists, grabbed four rebounds and stole the ball twice. Sophomore Nelson Black of Corpus Christi also had a big game, putting up 17 points, pulling in six boards, blocking two shots, making two assists and two steals. Junior Travis Haiduk hit three-pointers in each quarter, keeping the pressure on SACS on his way to 12 points.

Senior Garrett Notzon grabbed six rebounds, and junior Steele Sessions got five, while senior Eugenio Duron and senior Matt Oldfather each pulled in two.

“We have enjoyed a championship season because of the unselfish play and the tremendous, never-quit spirit of our players,” said Head Coach Bob Pels. “We have won a (school) record 33 games this season, and 14 of those games were by one or two baskets. This team has worked as hard to succeed as any I have ever coached, and every one of the boys has come through to win games for us.”

The champion Panthers advance to the TAPPS state playoffs, where they will host their first-round match-up on Saturday. Feb. 23.