Cobb Reporter

The basketball season in Cobb County, Georgia, has concluded with Wheeler High School's boys' team being the last standing. This year, 14 teams from Cobb entered the playoffs, but only four reached the quarterfinals: Hillgrove Girls and Pebblebrook, Walton, and Wheeler for the boys.

"The high level of basketball talent that Georgia produces is across the board," said District Athletic Director Don Baker. He noted that while some losses can be overcome during the regular season, "the playoffs are a different story. It's win or go home."

This reality was evident as three out of four remaining teams were eliminated from the GHSA tournament. Hillgrove Girls lost narrowly to Cherokee (57-54), Pebblebrook defeated Walton in overtime (77-70) but fell to Newton in a close Final Four match (56-53). Meanwhile, Wheeler advanced by defeating Grayson with a strong second-half effort (68-53), securing their spot in the 6A Finals against Newton.

Despite Hillgrove's quarterfinal loss to Cherokee, Coach Sue Milam expressed pride in her team's achievements this season. They won their first region championship since the school's opening in 2006.

"I'm very proud of winning the first," said Coach Milam. She emphasized that Hillgrove has consistently competed at a high level and reached state tournaments nearly every year.

Coach Milam also highlighted her role beyond coaching on the court. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to coach these girls at this stage in life," she stated, reflecting on how sports create lasting bonds among players.

As Wheeler prepares for their finals matchup against Newton in Macon this weekend, congratulations are extended to all Cobb teams for an impressive season.