Hoover Boys Basketball Eyes Repeat After AHSAA 7A Semifinal Win

The Wildcats defeated No. 4 James Clemens in a 75-73 overtime playoff game.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Hoover High School's boys basketball team is one step closer to defending their Class 7A state championship after defeating No. 4 James Clemens 75-73 in overtime in the AHSAA Class 7A Sweet 16 playoff game. The Wildcats' victory keeps their hopes alive for a repeat title.

Why it matters

Hoover is the defending Class 7A champion and a perennial powerhouse in Alabama high school basketball. Their playoff run this season is being closely watched as they aim to become repeat champions, a rare feat in the highly competitive AHSAA.

The details

In a tightly contested game, Hoover rallied from a late deficit to force overtime against James Clemens. The Wildcats were able to pull out the victory in the extra period to advance to the next round of the playoffs.

  • The AHSAA Class 7A Sweet 16 playoff game took place on March 5, 2026.

The players

Hoover High School

The Hoover Buccaneers are the defending Class 7A state champions in Alabama high school basketball.

James Clemens High School

James Clemens High School is a public high school located in Madison, Alabama. Their boys basketball team was ranked No. 4 in Class 7A heading into the playoff matchup against Hoover.

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What’s next

Hoover will advance to the AHSAA Class 7A semifinals, where they will face the winner of the quarterfinal matchup between Vestavia Hills and Grissom High Schools.

The takeaway

Hoover's ability to rally and win a close playoff game against a highly ranked opponent demonstrates their championship pedigree as they seek to defend their Class 7A title. The Wildcats' playoff run will continue to be closely watched as they aim for a rare repeat championship.