Dalonte Dunklin was named the MVP after San Diego’s Francis Parker High beat Las Vegas’ Chaparral High 48-35 in the Thanksgiving Classic final at the Berkeley Institute on Saturday night.

Dunklin scored 13 points and had one steal to lead Parker to the title, while Eric Norman (11), Connor Polk (9), and Bryce Fitzner (7) all contributed to the cause.

The two sides were the best teams during the two day event, with Chaparral looking for revenge in the final having lost to Parker in Friday’s round robin games.

While the win was sweet for the youngsters from San Diego, Dunklin admitted the match was also going to be close with his side having to weather the early storm.

“We beat them earlier in the tournament and we used that as a barometer for tonight,” said Dunklin.

“We did well to weather their early surge, we knew they would come out hard and I told my team-mates to relax and calm down.

“It was a team effort and I’m really proud of my team-mates.”

Up 21-13 at the half, Parker seemed to let their foot off the gas which allowed Chaparral to go on a 6-0 run and cut the lead to just two in the first minutes of the second half.

That would be as close as they would come, however, as Polk hit two title winning three pointers to restore his team’s advantage.

This would be all they would need, with defence coming to fore in the final minutes of the game.

Kamron Alexander scored 10 points for Chaparral in a losing effort, while Luis Gomez (6) also chipped in with some points for the side.

Dunklin was named Finals MVP for his display and leadership on the court.

“It feels great to be named the finals MVP, it was a great tournament to play in and we all are blessed and thankful for being here,” he said.

“I’m glad we got the win but also to meet new people we wouldn’t otherwise have met and overall it was a good weekend.”

Chaparral High coach Ennis Wesley was gracious in defeat and thanked those in attendance for their support throughout the Classic.

“We would like to thank those who have put this fantastic event on, and thank you to everyone in Bermuda who have helped us while we have been here.”

Organiser Chris Crumpler was also satisfied with how the inaugural event went.

“I’m pleased with how the weekend turned out, everyone got in and out without any problems, and everyone is safe and had a good time.

“We have a few minor issues, but to see the smiles on the Francis Parker players face after they won, their coach was smiling from ear to ear, so it was a success.

“I have been getting compliments from principals, teachers, and parents and the players from the other schools are saying that they have been having a great time while being here.

“This is what we want to do, create opportunities for these guys.

“It was great final, the proven team won, they have been a step ahead of everyone and they deserved the title.”