Chilton Christian Academy’s boys basketball team was knocked out of the ACEA state final four tournament, 56-53 on Thursday by Tuscaloosa Christian.

The Patriots (14-7) trailed by 12 points at halftime but fought back and briefly took the lead in the fourth period before fading in a game played in their opponents’ backyard, Shelton State Community College.

“I’m proud of the guys,” CCA coach Chris Jones said. “Our boys gave a good effort. I hate it for the seniors. We just fell short tonight.”

Tyler Gray led CCA with 22 points and nine rebounds. Matt Klein scored 17 points before fouling out.

Teammates Zach Brown and Austin Shropshire also fouled out as CCA was whistled 29 times compared to Tuscaloosa Christian’s 10 fouls.