Here’s A Look at San Augustine and Kennard’s State Title Games

And then there were two.

The UIL Texas basketball conferences and divisions are now down to their respective state championship games. In Deep East Texas, two teams will play for a state title on Thursday at the Alamodome in San Antonio. Here's a look at those two state championship games.

Kennard Tigers (27-10) vs Jayton Jaybirds (28-3), Class A, Division II

The Jaybirds are ranked #1 in the state, and they are trying to capture their third straight state title. Jayton has made it to the state tournament six out of the last eight years.

Coach Jordan Driskell and the Tigers are hoping to bring home Kennard's fifth state basketball championship in the school's history. Their last title happened in 1973, when the Tigers defeated Petrolia. Kennard reached the state semifinal last year before losing to Bryson.

Thursday's tipoff will take place at 1 p.m.

San Augustine Wolves (23-5) vs Panhandle Panthers (26-6), Class 2A, Division I

The Panthers are making their first-ever appearance in the state tournament. Despite their historic season, Panhandle has flown under the radar. They are not ranked in the top 25 in the state in the TABC Hoops Class 2A poll. The Panthers defeated the #8 team in the state (Waco Meyer) by 26 points earlier this week, which should tell you just how dangerous they are.

San Augustine is making their third state tourney appearance. Their last one came in 2013. The Wolves did win a state championship in 1973, the same year that Kennard last won theirs. San Augustine defeated Grand Saline to claim that state title.