4A Semifinal Recap: Champlin Park 65, Shakopee 57

Unbeaten Champlin Park got pushed to the limit but edged Shakopee to advance to Saturday's large-school state championship game at Target Center.

Shakopee led for most of the first half and took a 31-26 lead into the halftime locker room. High scoring Champlin Park stormed out with an 11-2 run after the break and held the lead until Shakopee got a three-pointer from Booker Coplin with 1:25 remaining for a 57-56 advantage. Champlin Park responded with the final nine points of the game for the 65-57 victory. A three from Marty Hill gave the lead back to Champlin Park. They added four free throws and a slam dunk from Theo John to round out the scoring. Champlin Park averages 87 points and 64 percent shooting on the season. They shot just 48 percent while being held more than 20 points below their average.

Star Tribune metro player of the year JT Gibson led Champlin Park with 18 points. First team all Metro player Steffon Mitchell poured in 25 for Shakopee.

The Rebels of Champlin Park (31-0) will continue their quest for a state title at 8 p.m. Saturday against Apple Valley in the 4A title game. The Rebels beat the Eagles 79-74 in a Dec. 27 game. Shakopee meets Lakeville North in the third-place game Saturday.

The state boys basketball tournament continues with the Class A and AA games on Friday at Target Center. Catch Gordy Kosfeld and Roy Koenig with the action on KDHL AM 920 and on the free Radio Pup app for your smart phone and mobile device.

Class A semifinals: