It was a basketball game pitting the Youth Challenge Academy boys against Fort Gordon to see who ruled the hardwood during a tournament Sunday at the St. James Sports Center in Holmestown.

When the dust settled the Fort Stewart boys reigned supreme, beating Fort Gordon 73-69.

The win was the Fort Stewart YCA team’s eighth title since 1994.

"It was one of their two goals for the season," said Fort Stewart YCA coach Ernie Waltour. "The first one was to get their GEDs. The second was to beat Fort Gordon."

Walthour said his players graduate the academy this weekend, "and we want to wish them good luck in all their endeavors," he said.

Sunday’s contest was close throughout and the two teams were tied 69-69 with less than a minute to play.

"We got a late turnover then we had a stop and a foul and hit the free throws," Walthour said. "The victory was based on good defensive stops."

He extended a special thanks to YCA Operations Commandant Maj. Miguel Robles, the YCA staff for their support and, "thanks to all the kids who worked hard for six months getting their GED," he said.

YCA Roster

Lecobian Hutchinson, Kevin Torruella, George Parilla, Paul Worrilll-Glover, Keith Bowers and Demetrice Miller, assistant coach Antinique Mathis, Tray Deadwilar, Dominique Quarlas, Dupree Strangefellow, Julian James, Quartrise Cook, Robert Tugman and head manager Ric’key Garrett.