The Pike Liberal Arts Patriots held off a late Morgan surge in their 62-55 win over the Senators in the quarterfinals of the AISA Class AAA State Playoffs on Wednesday night in Montgomery.

The Patriots jumped out to a quick lead in the opening quarter and went into the second leading 17-9. The Patriots increased their lead in the second quarter and led by double digits before heading into halftime leading 40-19.

Javon Christian led the Patriots in the first half when he scored a total of 16 points in the half. He converted two three pointers in the half.

After scoring 40 points in the first half, the Patriots offense was held to 22 in the third and fourth quarters.

The Patriots saw their lead shrink to 13 points and they went into the fourth leading 42-39.

The Senators outscored the Patriots 16-10, but with the help of Drew Nelson’s five fourth quarter points,  the Patriots held off the Knights to claim a spot in the final four.

Christian led the Patriots with 22 points, while Nelson and Jade Sikes finished with 13.

The win for the Patriots clinches a spot in Friday’s semifinals against Bessemer in Montgomery. Tip-off is scheduled for 11:30 a.m.