Pinson Valley has endured as much heartbreak and hardship the last two years as any team has in recent memory, but it only strengthened the resolve of the fourth-ranked Indians as they held firm in the final minute to secure a 49-46 victory over No. 7 Clay-Chalkville in Tuesday’s Class 6A Northwest Regional final at Wallace State’s Traditions Bank Arena.

“Everything we went through the last couple of years, losing Caleb (White) last year and our top player transferring this year, nobody believed in us but us,” Pinson Valley coach Darrell Barber said. “That’s why our mantra is ‘Just Us,’ and these guys have fought and been steadfast. This group is special.”