Top-ranked Saint Xavier continued its impressive run through the Gardner Law King of the Bluegrass on Sunday night, pulling away in the middle quarters to secure a 70–59 victory over No. 5 Madison Central and advance to the championship game for the second straight season.
Saint Xavier (6-1) set the tone early and never relinquished control, building a double-digit cushion by halftime and responding to every Madison Central push after the break. The Tigers outscored the Indians 21–8 in the opening quarter and carried a 36–22 lead into the locker room, fueled by defensive pressure and efficient perimeter shooting.
Junior guard Jordan Jackson was named Central Bank Player of the Game after delivering a poised all-around performance, finishing with 17 points while consistently answering momentum swings with timely baskets and trips to the foul line. Jackson was especially effective during a decisive third quarter, when Saint Xavier pushed the margin to as many as 20 points and seized firm control of the contest.
Saint Xavier received strong complementary scoring throughout the lineup. Josh Lindsay added 17 points of his own, knocking down four three-pointers and providing a steady scoring punch on the perimeter, while Bryce Johnson chipped in 10 points, hitting timely shots that helped maintain momentum whenever Madison Central threatened.
Madison Central (7-1) showed resilience throughout, led by Jake Feldhaus, who poured in a game-high 18 points and battled inside to keep the Indians within reach. Madison Central cut the deficit to single digits late in the fourth quarter, but Saint Xavier calmly closed the door at the free-throw line and with key finishes in transition down the stretch.
The Tigers knocked down shots from the perimeter at a high clip and turned defensive pressure into points, converting Madison Central turnovers into consistent scoring opportunities that prevented any sustained comeback attempt.
With the victory, Saint Xavier has now won seven straight games in King of the Bluegrass play and advanced to its second-ever KOB championship game. The Tigers will now look to make history, aiming to become the first program to repeat as KOB champions since Christ Presbyterian accomplished the feat in 2011–12.
Saint Xavier will play the winner of Frederick Douglass vs. Male in the Championship at 7:30pm on Monday. Madison Central will play in the 3rd Place Final against the loser of Frederick Douglass vs. Male at 6:00pm on Monday.
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