History was made Saturday in Rabun County, as the Riverside Military Eagles won their first GHSA region basketball title.

The Eagles (14-6) got 18 points from Steven Frady and 15 from Brandon McKinney in their 66-34 win over Dawson County in the Region 8-AA championship game in Tiger.

“I’m just happy for the kids,” Riverside coach Matt Bohon said. “We had good success in GISA, but winning this is really great.”

After taking a one-point lead after one quarter of play, Riverside outscored the Tigers 15-2 in the second period to build an insurmountable lead.

The play of Frady, a four-year member of the Eagles, and McKinney proved to be the difference.

“Earlier this year, Steven really struggled and they always left him open,” Bohon said. “Since then he’s been playing really good basketball.”
As for the 6-foot-5 McKinney?

“I think Brandon’s finally realized he’s a tough guy to guard,” Bohon said. “He’s getting stronger and he’s a really big fella.”

Bohon will now have the opportunity to see how that big fella and the rest of his teammates perform in the state tournament. Riverside opens the Class AA state tournament by playing host to the No. 4 seed from Region 7-AA.

“We’re excited about hosting a game,” Bohon said. “I know whoever we play is going to be tough, but I like our chances at home against any body.”