The First Preparatory Christian Academy Highlanders couldn’t overcome an early deficit – or Monsignor Donovan Catholic’s big men.

Led by 6-foot-8 Nick Huff and John W. Thompson III, the Rams held on for a 62-49 win Friday in the GIAA Boys Class A state basketball championship game at Columbus State University.

The Rams built a 34-16 halftime lead before the Highlanders trimmed it to as close as eight midway through the fourth quarter.

Jaiden Thomas led the Highlanders with 22 points. Jeremiah Moore added 10 points as the Highlanders went 16-of-60 from the field against the Rams. Logan Brown had four points and added eight rebounds.

The Rams were 19-of-24 shooting for the game from the field.

Thompson had 15 points and 17 rebounds and Huff recorded a triple-double – 15 points, 19 rebounds and 10 blocked shots.

Jordan Marnell had 13 points and nine assists for the Rams, and Dylan Arnold had four points and 14 rebounds. The Rams finished with 60 rebounds and 15 blocks.

The Highlanders ended the season at 12-10 while the Rams, who won their final 12 games, finished with a 17-9 record.

It was the final high school game for Moore, Cameron Barnett and Evan North.