Redstone beats International White for 8U city title

The Redstone 8-and-under team faced overtime after its double-digit halftime lead evaporated against International White in the 8U city tournament final.

But the Redstone players did what they’ve done all year. They battled back.

Deuce Brown’s jumper midway into the extra two minutes made the difference as Redstone beat International 19-17 for the city championship. Redstone went 4-0 in the seven-team double elimination tournament Feb. 17-20 at Fern Bell Recreation Center in south Huntsville.

In the final, Brown had four points, five rebounds, five assists and two steals for Redstone (14-1). He averaged 15 points in their first three games of the tournament.

The 8-year-old guard and coach’s son was asked how Redstone prevailed in the final.

“We started passing the ball more, having great assists,” Brown said. “I feel great. And that

should put some respect on Redstone.”

Power forward Judah Hite had five points, 10 rebounds and two blocks. Point guard Jaden Miller had four points, three rebounds and three steals. Khalil Jones added four points.

Redstone led 10-0 at halftime but was outscored 17-7 in the second half, forcing overtime. International missed a potential go-ahead 3-pointer in the closing seconds when the shooter shuffled his feet and was called for traveling before the ball left his hand and went through the hoop.

“If we wouldn’t have traveled it would’ve been game,” International coach Matthew Schmitz said.

JD Ferguson had 10 points, five rebounds, two assists and three steals for International (2-2).

Cruse Jones had three points on a 3-pointer, four rebounds and two blocks. Mac Bibb grabbed seven rebounds.

“The key to the game was defense,” Redstone coach Roshann Brown said. “It was really defense, applying pressure on the ball. Pressing the last two minutes helped us a lot.”