[i82much]

This was a great tournament for Ashland. They played with confidence from beginning to end in all three games. Boyd looked out of sorts in all three of their games. You could infer that after the first two games Boyd was physically and mentally drained. Maybe so, but the greater problem was they were not focused going into their first two games. They had a great draw going into the tournament and didn't take advantage.

On the other hand, Ashland had a very tough path. Russell had played consistent all year and was very motivated. Morgan County was considered by many to have an outside chance of going to Rupp. Ashland made quick work of both of these teams which made it much easier to physically and mentally focus for the next game.

Going into the championship one team was playing with confidence and had found their identity, the other could not focus and had lost their way. At the end of the day, like it or not, Ashland proved to be the best team in the 16th region. Period.

Also, I mean no disrespect to East Carter and Lewis County. They played great and I would not have been disappointed to see either of them win the tournament.