Last Updated on November 28, 2025 10:07 pm
BOONE, NC — The Watauga Pioneers are headed to the Final Four.
A late interception sealed a 31-28 victory over Sun Valley Friday night at Jack Groce Stadium in the fourth round of the NCHSAA state playoffs.
Watauga jumped out to a 14-7 lead after the first quarter, but Sun Valley battled back to tie the game 21-21 at halftime. The Spartans took a 28-21 lead into the fourth quarter before the Pioneers rallied.
A 36-yard field goal gave Watauga a 31-28 advantage with 5:11 remaining, and the defense came up with the game-clinching interception to preserve the win.
The Pioneers will host Northern Guilford next Friday in the Final Four, with a trip to the state championship game on the line.
