SM North moved to within two games of a state championship Thursday night. The Indians defeated Wichita East in the boys 6A state tournament matchup in Wichita with a sea of North fans in the bleachers.

SM North held on for a dramatic 55-52 win after Wichita brought the game within two points at 53-51 with 50 seconds left in the game and possession of the ball. Michael Weathers sealed the win by hitting two foul shots after a Wichita miss. A final three-point attempt to tie by Wichita also was off the mark.

Scoring leaders Michael and Marcus Weathers combined to lead the Indians offense again with 45 points between them. Michael had 24 points while Marcus had 21 points and seven rebounds.

SM North was able to hold Wichita star Xavier Kelly to eight points.

SM North coach Steve Stitzer credited the difficult schedule his team faced during the regular season for getting them ready for the tournament. “These guys, this team has been through every situation you can think of this year,” Stitzer told the Wichita Eagle. “We’ve played an incredibly tough schedule so a game like this is something we’re prepared for.”

The Indians, who are now 19-4 on the season, face Blue Valley Northwest (19-4) in one of tonight’s semifinal games. The championship is Saturday night.