Christ Church Dominates in Upper State Boys Basketball
Florence, South Carolina
Christ Church is trying to prove something. Despite missing their 7-footer Jordan Butler, who led the team to a boys high school basketball state championship last season and is now a starter at Missouri, the Cavaliers have shown that they have a team capable of a repeat victory. Christ Church dominated North 86-43 on Monday at Florence Center for the Class A Upper State title and will return at noon Friday for a chance to take their third state championship in four years.
Determined to Succeed
“Everyone’s been like, ‘Y’all were good because you had a 7-footer,’” said Christ Church coach John Butler, Jordan’s father. “So, I told our guys, ‘Are you going to create your own name? Are you going to show them that you’re good?’ I think they’re looking for a little respect.”
Without Jordan Butler, who averaged 21.4 points, 9.8 rebounds, and provided solid defense, Christ Church has had to step up in other ways. “Actually, our defense is a little better than last year,” Butler said. “We don’t have a rim protector, but it makes our on-ball defense better because you know they can’t get by you. You don’t have a shot blocker back there.”
Rising Star
6-5 sophomore Reid Hipp has been a standout player for Christ Church. Going up against someone seven inches taller every day in practice has pushed him to improve his skills. Hipp contributed eight points and four blocks in the first half of the game, helping the Cavaliers establish a lead. “It really made me better,” Hipp said. “You can’t just use your body. You can’t muscle through people. You have to be nimble even if you are a center . . . I was sad to see Jordan go, but I was ready to be starting and getting after it.”
Hipp’s experience from last season, facing tougher challenges during practices than in actual games, has prepared him for the court. “He played against Jordan all year last year and he was frustrated,” Butler said. “But I’m like, ‘You’re in ninth grade. Your time is coming.’ I’m seeing him come into his own and play very strong and physical.”
Team Effort
Junior guard Adam Brown scored 17 points for Christ Church, and sophomore forward Jude Hall added 12, contributing to the team’s success. The Cavaliers (19-5) had a comfortable 62-28 lead on North (26-3) entering the fourth quarter. “We have a mixture of older and younger guys,” Butler said. “So it’s just a matter of how far the younger guys have come along. I’ve got five sophomores. To see them finally starting to get some things is encouraging.”
Looking Ahead
Christ Church has proven that they are a force to be reckoned with, even without their star player from last season. With their sights set on a third state championship in four years, the team is determined to show that they can succeed through teamwork and dedication. The Cavaliers will face their next challenge on Friday at the Florence Center, where they will strive to secure another victory and cement their legacy in South Carolina high school basketball.