Calumet star Riley Island scores 40 on way to title

State Fair Arena has a knack for creating legends in Oklahoma’s small towns.

Meet Riley Island, the latest legend built into Big House lore.

Years from now, the people of Calumet will recount the story.

Island made seven 3-pointers Saturday, dished out seven assists and grabbed eight rebounds in leading fourth-ranked Calumet to a 63-54 win over No. 8 LeFlore in the finals of the Class B state tournament at State Fair Arena.

“You’re almost in awe sometimes,” said firstyear Calumet coach Jacob Mayfield.

In three days at the Big House, the 6-foot-1 junior guard averaged 34.0 points, including a triple-double in Friday’s semifinals.

“I promised my mom, everyone in the town, that I would get them a state championship,” Island said, getting a little emotional as he spoke. “I did it.”

Island started early. He hit four 3s in the first quarter, and assisted on both of Calumet’s other baskets. When it got to crunch time, his teammates kept getting the ball to him, and he was 17-of-19 at the free throw line.

“He’s an incredible player,” said junior forward Kobe Kennedy, who had eight points and four rebounds. “I feel lucky to be his teammate. He’s by far our leader and I’m just glad I can help him out with everything he does for us.

“It’s so exciting to bring a championship back to our town.”

LeFlore, playing in its first-ever state championship game, had four starters — all seniors — score in double-figures, with Blake Crase posting 14, Daniel Rodriguez with 13, Dawson Warren with 12 and Aaron Lloyd with 11.

LeFlore didn’t do anything particularly poorly in the loss. Island and Calumet simply weren’t going to be stopped.

The title is the fourth for Calumet, following 1999, 2003 and 2004.

Though the team graduates three starters — Aaron Thornton, Chase Epperson and Stavion Blackowl — Island and Kennedy are back, and some other young players are coming up.

The school held a pep rally on Wednesday, involving everyone.