Jitters? What jitters?

The only question surrounding Champlin Park was how well the Rebels would handle first state tournament appearance since 2010.

After obliterating St. Francis 90-47 in the opening game of the Class 4A quarterfinals, that question seems foolish.

Operating at the same high level that they have performed at all season en route to a 30-0 record, the Rebels took control from the outset. They blitzed St. Francis with a 42-11 over the last 10 minutes of the first half to take a 52-23 halftime lead.

Game over.

“I’m never worried about this team being prepared,” coach Mark Tuchscherer said. “They were prepared at practice last night, knowing it was a 10 a.m. game.”

The Rebels' depth and cohesion had veteran basketball observers shaking their heads in amazement.

Consider this: Star Tribune Metro Player of the Year and Mr. Basketball finalist J.T. Gibson finished with just nine points, fifth-best on the team. Jeremy Johnson and McKinley Wright scored 17 points each, Marty Hill added 15 and Aaron Kloeppner had 12.

“I’ve played on teams this close before, but never one with this much talent,” Johnson said. “If one of us is hot, he’s getting the ball. If not, he’s just go to hustle and do other things. Another chance will come.”

The only question surrounding Champlin Park’s first state tournament appearance since 2010 was how well the Rebels would handle opening-game jitters.

After obliterating St. Francis 90-48 in the opening game of the Class 4A quarterfinals at Target Center, that question seems foolish. The Rebels, operating at the same high level that they have performed at all season en route a perfect season, took control from the outset, blitzing St. Francis with a 42-11 over the last 10 minutes of the first half to take a 52-23 halftime lead.

Jeremy Johnson and McKinley Wright scored 17 points each and Marty Hill added 15 for Champlin Park (30-0). Blake Moreno scored 17 points for St. Francis (21-9).

Check back later for more on the game.