Chattanooga Prep wins historic third straight state title

Sentinels become first Hamilton County team to three-peat as champions

Mar. 22, 2026 at 2:18am

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The Chattanooga Prep Sentinels have accomplished something no other basketball team in Hamilton County has ever done - win three consecutive state championships. After dominating the 1A division the past two seasons, the Sentinels moved up to 2A this year and continued their winning ways, downing Westview 61-52 in the title game.

Why it matters

Chattanooga Prep's three-peat is a historic achievement, as no other team in the county has ever accomplished this feat. The Sentinels' sustained excellence and ability to adapt to a higher classification demonstrates the program's strength and the outstanding coaching of Christian Collins.

The details

In their three-year championship run, the Sentinels have won 8 out of 9 state tournament games by 9 or more points. This year's title came after the TSSAA moved Chattanooga Prep up to the 2A division, but the team continued its dominance, downing Westview 61-52 in the final.

  • The Sentinels won their first state title three years ago.
  • They defended their 1A title last year.
  • This year, they moved up to 2A and won their third straight championship.

The players

Christian Collins

Head coach of the Chattanooga Prep Sentinels, who has led the team to three consecutive state championships.

Chattanooga Prep Sentinels

The high school basketball team from Chattanooga, Tennessee that has won three straight state titles, the first Hamilton County team to accomplish this feat.

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What they’re saying

“Win the first one, not just the first one but the second one, let alone three in a row. It's amazing. It's a blessing.”

— Christian Collins, Head Coach

What’s next

The Sentinels will look to extend their championship streak next season as they defend their 2A title.

The takeaway

Chattanooga Prep's historic three-peat demonstrates the strength of their basketball program and the exceptional coaching of Christian Collins. This achievement is a point of pride for the Hamilton County community and sets a new standard of excellence for high school sports in the region.