HIAWASSEE — Lumpkin County's Jack Howard and Brandon Zarate continued their assault of opposing defenses Tuesday in the semifinals of the Battle of the States Tournament.
Howard poured in 26 points and Zarate had 25 to power the Indians to a 68-50 victory over Piedmont (Ala.) to advance to the finals.
Lumpkin County (12-2) will take on Haynesville (N.C.) in Wednesday's championship game.
Howard and Zarate's effort came one night after the pair combined for 52 points in a win over Polk (Tenn.) in the first round.
The Indians jumped out to a quick lead and took a 37-21 lead into halftime. They only outscored Piedmont 31-29 in the second half.
Despite the big win, Lumpkin County coach Jeff Steele said more can be done.
"We still have to get better," Steele said.
Zach Pulley had 13 rebounds for Lumpkin County.
