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The Davis Darts (22-3) took on the Alta Hawks (21-4) in the 5A state championship today at the Dee Events Center at Weber State University. The Darts’ only problem, it seemed that they left their offense at home.

Both the Darts and Hawks tipped off the season three months ago against one another as the Darts took the first battle 59 to 52 while making their living at the foul line.

On Saturday, Alta came at the Darts once again with an aggressive defensive approach, and unlike their first meeting, Alta’s defensive tenacity paid off. Davis scored a season low 32 points in their crucial rematch… that was one less point than the number of made foul shots in the first meeting back on December 1.

"We proved that we could play great defense today," said 5A tournament MVP, Kyle Davis.

Not only did the Hawks prove that they could play great defense, as the Darts only scored one bucket in the opening period, but they also had an answer every time Davis got a little momentum.

"I'm really proud of the kids," said Jim Barker, the Alta Head Coach. "They battled through a lot of adversity this season and every time a team made a run, this team fought back."

The Hawks found themselves in several close games throughout the year as they were only defeated four times. On Saturday, there were several moments in the game where it looked as though the Darts were starting to make their run, but Alta stepped up with timely defense and clutch offensive play. ”When they started to make shots, this team just fought, and we played defense, and at the end we were able to blow it open”, said Kyle Davis.

Alta held a 30 to 21 advantage on the boards as Kyle Davis finished with a double-double scoring 14 points and tearing down 12 boards.

The Hawks’ floor general, Jordan Brown only came away with two points in the game after averaging 12 ppg. on the year, but it was what he did by directing the Hawks on the court that was impressive as he finished with seven rebounds, six assists, and two steals.

For Alta’s defense, the most important numbers for the game, were ‘six’ and ‘three’. The Darts’ go-to guys, Landon Horne (six points) and Tallon Burton (three points), struggled to find clean looks at the basket starting from the opening tip until the final buzzer.

Often times, defense goes unnoticed as fans, and even some players, want to talk about the razzle-dazzle of the offense. The 2009-10 5A state champion Alta Hawks, will be known for helding the Davis Darts to 18% shooting in the most crucial game of the year as they defeated the Darts, 46 to 32.