There was no love lost between the West Lincoln Bears and the Hinds AHS Bulldogs as they battled for the fourth time this season.

Senior guard Jared Case shot the lights out Saturday night, leading the West Lincoln Bears to an 82-61 victory against the Hinds AHS Bulldogs. Case poured in 32 points, sacking 7 treys in the process, as the Bears captured the MHSAA Class 1A South State Tournament championship for a second straight year in jam-packed Jack Case Gymnasium.

West Lincoln (31-3) advances to the Big House, aka the Mississippi Coliseum, in Jackson, site of the state tournament. They play North runner-up Biggersville Friday at 2:30 p.m. Hinds AHS plays defending state champion Coldwater at 10:30 Friday morning.

The Bears and Bulldogs battled back and forth in a tough, physical battle. West Lincoln started strong and built a lead. Foul trouble slowed down the Bears but they managed to lead 20-16.

West Lincoln extended its lead to 43-23 at halftime.

In the third quarter, junior center Sam Bivens ignited West Lincoln’s high octane offense. The Bears led 67-48 entering the final frame. Bivens finished with 19 points and 8 rebounds.

“We didn’t play great but we played hard the whole game,” said West Lincoln coach Lane Young. “We did what we had to do to win. Tamarcus (London) and Sam (Bivens) played well in the paint. I was pleased with our bench. They stepped up when we got in early foul trouble.”

London finished with a double-double of 12 points and 10 rebounds. Lucas Burris was in early foul trouble but managed 10 rebounds. Marshall chipped in 7 assists.

“I’m looking for us to have a huge crowd at the coliseum next week.”

Hinds AHS coach Keith Williams praised the Bears. “West Lincoln wanted it more than we did. They have a very good, disciplined team.

“I’m proud of my boys,” Williams added. “I’m proud to get back to the coliseum. I hope to see West Lincoln again.”

The Bulldogs (15-18) were directed by Kaleb Williams with 11 points. DeAndre Bolton had 8 rebounds.