AA Chip (Boys 2022) - Poca vs. Bluefield
Sports
Poca, driven by Isaac McKneely's determination to avenge last year's narrow loss, captured the Class AA state championship with a decisive 65-48 victory over Bluefield. McKneely's strong start, scoring 10 points in the first quarter, propelled Poca to an early lead they never relinquished. Poca's balanced offense, featuring key contributions from Kambel Meeks and Ethan Maynor, countered Bluefield's strong shooting performance. Despite Bluefield's attempts to close the gap, particularly in the third quarter, Poca's clutch plays and efficient shooting, including a pivotal run in the fourth, secured the championship. McKneely finished with 22 points, while Meeks added 15 and Maynor 10. Poca's disciplined play, marked by 19 assists and only seven turnovers, underscored their teamwork and unselfishness, qualities that Coach Allen Osborne credited for their success. The victory marked Osborne's third state title and capped a storied high school career for several Poca seniors, including McKneely.