Freshman Xavier Jones Drops 20 In Playoff Debut, Westerville South Advances To District Championship

Westerville — Growing up, Westerville South freshman Xavier Jones watched the Wildcats’ boys basketball program reach the pinnacle of success, highlighted by their 2016 state championship. Now, Jones has the opportunity be a leader in that same program.

In his playoff debut, Jones delivered a standout performance, scoring 20 points with four three-pointers as Westerville South held off a late Canal Winchester surge to secure a 60-49 victory in the Division II district semifinals.

Jones reflected on the significance of the moment, soaking in the emotions of his playoff debut. “To be in that shoe, to be here at Westerville South and winning one is unreal,” he said.

Despite trailing by nearly 20 points in the second half, Canal Winchester made a late push, capitalizing on turnovers to generate quick baskets and trips to the free-throw line.

The Indians cut the deficit to seven with 54.7 seconds remaining, but Westerville South remained poised, knocking down key free throws to close out the game and secure the victory.

Senior Amari Hodges stepped up when it mattered most, scoring eight of his 13 points in the fourth quarter to help Westerville South fend off Canal Winchester’s late push. Andrew Koroma led the Wildcats in rebounding with six, Tyler Kielmeyer had five for Westerville South.

It’s the kind of scenario that can send a coach’s blood pressure soaring, but for Westerville South’s Ed Calo, the bigger picture remains clear. “Sometimes you have to just step back and appreciate the little things,” Calo said. “Winning and having the opportunity to play is just a blessing.”

Next up is a showdown with Licking Heights, a team that Coach Calo believes is better than their seed suggests. “That is a pretty great basketball team, and we will have to earn our way through,” he said. “This isn’t a soft draw, and we are looking forward to the challenge.”

Going into Thursday, Jones is confident that the Wildcats will be mentally prepared, “We feel that we beat any team that we play,” he said. “My mindset is the same for every game: Just go play hard.”

With the win, the Wildcats advance to face Licking Heights in the district championship on Thursday at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus.