PIQUA (WLIO) — Jackson Center earned the rubber match against defending state champion Russia, defeating the Raiders 47-40 in a district semifinal showdown.

Russia worked to chip away at an early deficit behind baskets from Cash Grogean and a three-pointer by Grant Bergman. But the Tigers answered throughout the night, with Brendan Serr scoring inside and Preston Serr providing a key spark, including a late three-pointer before halftime.

Jackson Center held off the Raiders down the stretch to secure the win.

The Tigers advance to the district championship game Saturday at Piqua, where they will face Lehman Catholic.

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