The St. Edward Eagles became known for their double-digit comebacks during their run to the Division I state championship game. They did everything they could to make sure they'd need to do the same Saturday night against Newark.

Unfortunately for the Eagles, Greg Avery had a different idea.

Behind 19 first half points from their star forward, the Wildcats built a double digit lead and took a 33-25 lead into halftime in a game where St. Edward was unable to find little first half offense and senior center Tom Pritchard didn't even record an official field goal attempt until the 7:17 mark of the third quarter. The lone bright spot for the Eagles in the first half was senior guard Mike Hartnett who scored 10 points 4-of-6 shooting.

Avery finished the game with 33 points and 11 rebounds and seemed to have an answer every time St. Edward got momentum.

Examples: Tom Pritchard scores with a foul. Following the missed free throw, Avery hit a jump shot.

Want more? Frankie Dobbs hit a three. Greg Avery drove strong and got to the line where he converted two free throws.

When Tom Pritchard fouled out with 4:43 to go (8 points, 3 rebounds), the only thing keeping Newark from hoisting the trophy was the OHSAA's predilection to wait until the clock reads triple zeroes to start handing out the awards.

Despite early pressure by the Eagles, Newark extended to a 48-36 lead aafter three thanks to eight more points from Avery and Tom Pritchard being sent to the bench with his fourth foul at the 3:17 mark of the quarter.

St. Edward comes up empty for the second straight time in Columbus after losing in the state semifinals in 2007.

Dane Kopp contributed 7 points and 11 rebounds for the Wildcats. Rahlin Watson added 10.

The Eagles were paced by Frankie Dobbs' 15 points. Mike Hartnett chipped in 12 in the losing effort.