Russia, a small school in rural Shelby County, has more history with Cuyahoga County than one may think.

The Raiders had back-to-back historic seasons end in the state semifinals at the hands of Richmond Heights, a team that Cornerstone Christian is very familiar with as well.

This year, with both teams breaking through the state semifinal barrier, it was Russia that came away with a 74-57 victory in the newly formed Division VII.

A Different Style of Game

Russia came into Saturday giving up an average of 35 points per game, which is less than the 37.1 points per game that Ohio’s all-time leading scorer Quinn Kwasniak was averaging this season.

For Russia to win this game, it would have to be able to match the hot shooting stretches that Cornerstone Christian is known for.

The Raiders were able to do just that early on, starting the game on a blistering 13-4 run to take the early momentum.

However, Cornerstone Christian was able to chip away at the deficit, cutting it to 20-14 heading into the second quarter.

Kwasniak’s Incredible Quarter

In the second quarter, Quinn Kwasniak would piece together one of the most impressive stretches of basketball in recent state tournament history.

With his team trailing 28-19, Kwasniak scored 11 points in a little over two minutes to fuel Cornerstone to a 32-31 lead.

This stretch by Kwasniak included three makes from beyond-the-arc, two of which came from just inside half court.

Despite the eventual outcome, Kwasniak was impressive in his senior season finale, tallying 38 points and six assists.

Russia Responds, Brings Home The Title

After briefly trailing for the first time in the game, Russia went on a 16-5 run spanning across both the second and third quarters to take a 47-37 lead.

This lead proved to be insurmountable for Cornerstone, as the dynamic duo of Braylon Cordonnier and Dominic Francis continued to put on a show.

The lead continued to grow, as Russia pulled away to earn a 74-57 victory, securing the first state title in school history.

Team Leaders

Russia

Points – Braylon Cordonnier (22)

Rebounds – Dominic Francis (8)

Assists – Vince Borchers (5)

Cornerstone Christian

Points – Quinn Kwasniak (38)

Rebounds – Darrien Davis (7)

Assists – Quinn Kwasniak (6)