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Elizabethton Today
By the People, for the People
Hampton Jr. Bulldogs fall short in state title bid
Summertown Eagles defeat Hampton 62-43 in state semifinals
Published on Feb. 16, 2026
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The Hampton Jr. Bulldogs' remarkable season came to an end with a 62-43 loss to the Summertown Eagles in the state semifinals. Despite a gritty second-half comeback effort, Hampton was unable to overcome an early deficit and the relentless performance from Summertown.
Why it matters
The loss ends Hampton's hopes of a state championship, but the team's resilience and determination in reaching the Final Four has earned them respect and admiration within the community. The game highlighted the competitive nature of Tennessee high school basketball and the heartbreak that can come with falling just short of a title.
The details
Summertown jumped out to an early 12-9 lead in the first quarter and then stretched their advantage to 30-15 by halftime. Summertown was led by Jamie Julian's game-high 22 points, while also getting double-digit scoring contributions from Casen Pugh, Dallen Scott, and Sam White. Hampton mounted a second-half comeback, led by Rylan Jones' 20 points, but was unable to overcome the early deficit. Summertown's advantage at the free-throw line, where they outshot Hampton 20-14, also proved to be a key factor in the outcome.
- The game was played on Friday night.
- Hampton trailed 30-15 at halftime.
The players
Jamie Julian
A standout player for Summertown who scored a game-high 22 points.
Leon Tolley
The head coach of the Hampton Jr. Bulldogs.
Rylan Jones
A Hampton player who led the team's second-half comeback effort with 20 points.
What they’re saying
“We battled some nerves in the first half. Give Summertown credit, they played well early and never let up.”
— Leon Tolley, Hampton head coach (elizabethton.com)
“We got beat by a better team. We did some uncharacteristic things early which got us into a hole we couldn't climb out of. We didn't quit, and we'll be ready for the next one.”
— Leon Tolley, Hampton head coach (elizabethton.com)
What’s next
The loss moves Hampton into the third-place game, where the Bulldogs will have an opportunity to close out their season with a podium finish.
The takeaway
Despite the heartbreaking loss, Hampton's remarkable season and resilient second-half performance have earned them the respect and admiration of the community. The team's determination to reach the Final Four and their refusal to quit showcases the competitive spirit of Tennessee high school basketball.
