WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – Two New Hanover County high schools played in the state semifinals Wednesday.

The New Hanover Wildcats faced Sanderson in the 4A semifinals. The Wildcats got off to a hot start and ended the first quarter with a 24-9 lead. Kellum Brown led the Wildcats with 29 points and 7 rebounds.

New Hanover beat Sanderson 83-55 to secure their spot in the State Championship game on Saturday.

The Wildcats will face off against North Mecklenburg in a fight for the state title.

As for Hoggard High School and their run for a state title, the women’s basketball season ended on Wednesday.

The Vikings took on Wakefield in the 4A semifinal matchup. After falling behind, Hoggard trailed by one point at halftime.

Hoggard came out hot in the third quarter and held a four-point lead going into the fourth quarter.

Wakefield gained momentum, taking control of the final quarter. Hoggard was outscored 14-2 in the fourth quarter.

Wakefield took the win over Hoggard 31-23.

Copyright 2025 WECT. All rights reserved.