Zez Steeple scored a season-high 42 points for Banks County to secure an 82-61 victory against Coahulla Creek in the opening round of the Class AAA state tournament Wednesday in Dalton. With the win, the Leopards will face Central (Macon) on Saturday.

Kahmal Wiley also had a strong night, chipping in 14 points and 14 rebounds for Banks County.

BUFORD GIRLS ADVANCE: After a tight first half, Buford surged ahead in the third quarter to defeat Whitewater 63-38 in the opening round of the Class AAAA state tournament Wednesday in Buford. Leading 22-18 at halftime, the Lady Wolves outscored the Wildcats 24-10 in the third quarter.

Tory Ozment led a balanced scoring night for Buford with 14 points, while Marissa Bruce chipped in 10. Jessica Nelson, Zikaya Wright and Pamela Johnson each finished with nine points for the Lady Wolves.

With the win, Buford advances to face Mt. Zion in the second round on Friday in Jonesboro. Game time is still to be determined.

CARROLLTON BOYS 59, NORTH HALL 56: Marshun Farris sank a buzzer-beating game-winning 3-pointer to help Carrollton top North Hall Wednesday in Gainesville.

TEMPLE BOYS 50, RIVERSIDE MILITARY 40: Juwan Thompson led the Eagles with 16 points, and Davis Short finished with 15 for the Eagles on Wednesday in Gainesville.