Calera Tops Spain Park to Reach First Boys Basketball Final Four in 21 Years

Calera boys basketball team clinches 6A Central Region title, ending two-decade drought

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Calera High School boys basketball team defeated Spain Park 56-50 in the 6A Central Regional final, earning the program's first trip to the state semifinals in 21 years. Led by head coach George Drake, who was a player on Calera's last Final Four team in 2005, the Eagles were paced by a game-high 23 points from senior guard Jararcus Adams. Calera overcame a late Spain Park comeback bid by dominating the offensive glass and forcing 14 turnovers. The Eagles will now face Cullman in the 6A state semifinals on March 4.

Why it matters

Calera's return to the Final Four marks a remarkable turnaround for the program, which won just six games combined in the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons before making this deep playoff run. Head coach George Drake, a former Calera player, has instilled a winning culture and belief in his team, helping the Eagles overcome their recent struggles and reclaim their spot among Alabama's elite high school basketball programs.

The details

Calera led by as many as 10 points in the fourth quarter but had to hold off a late Spain Park comeback attempt. The Jaguars cut the deficit to 51-48 with 29 seconds left, but Calera sealed the victory with free throws from Kagan Johnson and a late steal by Keelan Howard. The Eagles dominated the glass, outrebounding Spain Park 37-27 and scoring 20 second-chance points. Calera's defense also forced 14 Spain Park turnovers and recorded 11 steals.

  • Calera last reached the state semifinals in 2005.
  • Calera's win over Spain Park on February 25, 2026 clinched the 6A Central Regional title.
  • Calera will play Cullman in the 6A state semifinals on March 4, 2026 at 10:30 a.m.

The players

George Drake

Calera's head coach, who was a player on the team the last time they reached the state semifinals in 2005.

Jararcus Adams

Calera's senior guard, who scored a game-high 23 points in the regional final win over Spain Park.

Kagan Johnson

Calera player who hit key free throws late to help the Eagles seal the victory over Spain Park.

Keelan Howard

Calera player who recorded a late steal to help clinch the game against Spain Park.

Cullman

Calera's opponent in the upcoming 6A state semifinal matchup.

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What they’re saying

“It's a special feeling, kind of surreal. It really hasn't even hit me yet. First off, I want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to be here and coach these guys. They've been A-1 from the beginning of the season, and I'm just proud of them.”

— George Drake, Calera Head Coach (al.com)

“Last game, I wasn't using my body enough in the paint. This game, I used my body when I was going up. And I know my teammates were going to get the offensive boards on my layups and my floaters. We just executed today.”

— Jararcus Adams, Calera Senior Guard (al.com)

“Winning five games just two years ago, it's easy to look at it and say, 'When will the success come?' But we pride ourself here at Calera at staying the course, not looking at what we don't have or what we can't do or don't feel like we can accomplish. We've got a great community, and it's a lot of pride here.”

— George Drake, Calera Head Coach (al.com)

“We really did it. They didn't believe in us this year. We came out and showed them. Hey, we're going to the Final Four!”

— Jararcus Adams, Calera Senior Guard (al.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.