The Huntington Hounds got their biggest test in several weeks from the Riverdale Rebels Friday night during the South State Semifinals, but were able to hold on for a five-point win.

After trailing for much of the first half, the Hounds took the lead just before halftime and held it for the remainder of the game, but by no more than eight points in a 52-47 win.

Late in the game with the Hounds leading 49-45, Ricky Dunbar hit one of two free throws to give them a five-point lead. Riverdale then sank a basket with 39 seconds left, and had a chance as the clock was winding down to tie the game, but a three-point attempt was missed. Antonio Jordan collected the rebound and dished to Dunbar, who strolled all alone to the basket for a thunderous dunk as time expired to seal the win.

“We played them three times this year, so we knew we’d be in for a tough game,” Huntington head coach David Boydstun said. “They’ve got a tough team and they’ll make some noise at the state tournament.”

Jordan and Dunbar led the Hounds (28-3) in scoring, pitching in 18 and 17 points, respectively. Jay Perkins and Jody Wiggins led Riverdale with 12 points apiece.

The Hounds will now take on rival Trinity Episcopal in the South State finals today at 7:15 p.m.

Trinity Episcopal boys 59, Glenbrook 39

The Trinity Saints, despite playing without the services of Stevan Ridley for much of the first half, built a big lead and never let up in a 20-point win over Glenbrook.

After a back-and-forth first quarter, freshman R.J. Fleming forced several steals in the second quarter playing in the place of Ridley, and Jon Davis King and Matthew Freeman hit the shots to build a 35-19 halftime lead.

The second half saw Trinity run numerous backdoor cuts to Freeman, which worked time and again as Freeman racked up 23 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Saints.

King scored 16 points, and Fleming scored 10 for the Saints.

Trinity head coach David King (no relation) said the Saints (13-10) were coming together at playoff time.

“(Glenbrook) was very quick, but that’s why we played teams like (Jackson Academy). That prepares us for games like this,” King said. “Our record was deceptive. We’ve lost 10 games, but nine of them were to teams ranked in the state. I was really pleased with the way we handled the press tonight.”

Logan Hollingsworth led Glenbrook with 12 points.