CHAMPAIGN — The Goreville Blackcats jumped out to an early 9-0 lead and never looked back, leading wire to wire in a 55-47 win over Lawrenceville in the 1A State Semifinals.

Goreville led by as many as 19 in the fourth quarter. The Indians rallied, but the final margin was as close as they could get.

Nick King led all scorers with 20 points. Jayden Goff led Lawrenceville with 16.

Goreville advances to Saturday’s 1A State Championship game against Chicago Marshall, who beat Eastland 66-38 in the other semifinal. Lawrenceville and Eastland will play in the 3rd place game Thursday night at 7:00.