NATCHEZ — Clinging to a one-point advantage late in the third quarter, the Vipers outscored Natchez Hearing 7-2 the rest of the way to claim a 20-14 win Thursday and the third-fourth grade AYA championship.

“We’re undefeated, and we had a good season,” Vipers coach Dwane Hawkins said. “We stuck with the game plan.”

The Vipers were led in scoring by Justin Hawkins, Dwane’s son, who poured in a game-high 12 points. Justin also had five rebounds and two steals.

“This is really cool,” Justin said.

Not to be outdone, teammates Jack Whittington had seven points and six rebounds while Drew Strawbridge had four steals.

“Everybody did well,” Justin said. “We got rebounds and did everything we were supposed to do.”

Natchez Hearing led 2-0 for most of the first quarter until the final play. Justin was fouled attempting a 3-pointer and converted all three attempts to put his team ahead. The Vipers led the rest of the way.

“We did good (Thursday),” Justin said. “I’m really excited.”

Tris McCoy scored six points to lead Natchez Hearing, while Bennett Gilly pulled down a game-high eight rebounds to go along with two points and two blocks.

“We picked up (our play) at the end (of the season) and made it to the championship,” Natchez Hearing coach Triand McCoy said. “That’s all that matters. I’m very proud of them; they showed a lot of improvement.”

The Vipers led at halftime, 9-4.

Fred Lane and Sam Stout each had two points for Natchez Hearing, while Brian Burgess had two points for the Vipers.

The Vipers ended their season with a perfect 9-0 record.

“We knew (Thursday) was going to be hard; it’s a championship game,” Dwane said. “But I’m proud of my kids, and I’m very proud of the season they had.”