DURHAM, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) In a dramatic showdown, Bedford rallied in the closing moments to edge Keene 51-50 at Lundholm Gym on Sunday, securing their second title in three seasons.

For most of the night, it seemed as though Keene’s dream season would have a storybook ending. The Blackbirds, making their first state finals appearance since 1992, controlled the tempo and led for nearly two-thirds of the game. A defensive masterpiece and timely baskets had them up 46-39 with just over three minutes remaining.

However, Bedford, known for its resilience, turned up the pressure late. Senior Connor O’Rourke played a crucial role, grabbing an offensive rebound and scoring the game-winning putback with just over a minute left. The Bulldogs’ dominance on the glass—outrebounding Keene 53-32, including 27 offensive boards—proved too much to overcome.

Keene had opportunities in the final minute but could not capitalize. A missed layup and two free throws in the closing seconds left them one point short. Bedford’s Logan O’Connell came up with a critical steal with ten seconds remaining, forcing Keene to foul. Though Bedford missed both ensuing free throws, their defense held strong, denying Keene’s final midcourt heave at the buzzer.

Keene’s coaching staff acknowledged that missed opportunities and Bedford’s height advantage played key roles in the outcome. The Bulldogs struggled offensively, shooting just 1-for-22 from beyond the arc and 14-for-29 from the free-throw line, but their second-chance points (a 29-4 advantage) were the difference.

O’Rourke led Bedford with 18 points and 11 rebounds. Landon Ellsmore added 10 points and 11 boards, while Wiji Dak contributed seven points and 14 rebounds to control the paint.

On the other side, Keene’s standout performer, Javon Massiah, delivered a strong performance in his final high school game with 19 points, including a highlight-reel dunk in the second quarter that electrified the crowd. Jamal Stanley added nine points and eight rebounds, but the Blackbirds struggled from deep, hitting just 3-of-15 from three-point range.

With the loss, Keene remains winless in six championship game appearances, though their remarkable turnaround under their current coaching staff has reestablished the program as a competitive force.