Monticello — The Wayne County 7th Grade Boys Basketball Team have achieved a remarkable feat by being named state champions once again.

The local team defeated Knox County 65-61 in the championship game of the 58 team state tournament in Lexington over the weekend.

Wayne County won seven games to take the title for the second year in a row.

The Cardinals defeated Williamsburg 58-31, then won over Glasgow 66-39 before defeating Lexington Tates Creek 54-32.

Wayne County went on to defeat Lexington Traditional Middle School 53-38.

In the quarterfinals, the Cardinals defeated Pulaski Southern 50-42. In the semifinals Wayne County won over Shelby Valley, 65-63, before winning over Knox in the championship game.

According to Coach Shane Blevins, Wayne County was led by tournament MVP Logan Gardner and Corey Stearns, as the two combined to provide a dominating presence on the inside.

The Cardinals also received excellent guard play throughout the tournament.

The Wayne County back court connected on 45 3-point baskets for the tournament, and provided excellent ball handling and decision-making throughout.

Wayne County ends the season with a record of 26-3. This group of Cardinals has a combined record of 58-3 and two state titles over the past two seasons. The team is coached by Shane Blevins and Kyle Troxell.

Team members include: Trey Blevins, Carson Staples, Peyton Woods, Corey Stearns, Logan Gardner, Timmy Taylor, Jared Philpot, Drew Perkins, Matthew Gregory, Austin Sexton, Ty Humble, Brett Williams, Andrew Dobbs, and Nick Gillespie.