The Dillard High Panthers boy's basketball team has won three straight
Class 6A state championships. However, last year, Dillard was upset
by Western High school in the opening round of the BIG 8 tournament.
Dillard atoned for last years loss by defeating South Broward in
the championship game, 85-73.
The victory was the 18th consecutive win for the Panthers since their
December loss to Oakland Tech in Las Vegas. The Dillard Panthers, 25-1,
did not lose a regular season district game this year and they are poised
to do the impossible – win four consecutive state championships!
Tournament MVP Kevin Thomas scored 11 of his team high 20 points in the
second quarter. The Panthers took control of the game with a 27-12 second
quarter blitz. Five other Panthers scored in double figures, including
all- tournament selection Jimmy Tobias who scored 17. The Dillard Panthers
reached the finals by beating South Plantation and Stranahan high schools.
The Boys BIG 8 Championship featured the top 8 BCAA boys teams in a single
elimination tournament. The championship is sponsored by McKinley Financial
Services whose president, Jim McKinley, understands the value and importance
of being involved in public service endeavors.
The McKinley Financial Foundation emphasizes the importance of continuing
education for South Florida youth and realizes that a lack of funds should
not prevent our youth from realizing their dreams. Each year, the McKinley
Financial Big 8 Boys Championship provides an opportunity to showcase
the talents of students while, at the same time, raising money for scholarships.
