Cherokee Athletics 15 and under allstars pitched and defended well - and hit just enough - to capture the Babe Ruth League age 15 and under state championship Saturday.

In the state championship game, Josh Tate scored two runs as Cherokee Athletics edged West Ashley, 4-2.

“We didn’t hit great, but we had great pitching and defense,” veteran manager Terry Belue said.

Jaylen Miller allowed two hits and struck out five before turning it over to Evan McCurry, who inherited two baserunners with one out in the seventh inning.

The defense came up big as Miller speared a liner headed down the right field line before outfielder Nick Hames made a diving catch with the tying runners on base to preserve the victory.

Cherokee Athletics advance to the Southeast Regional in Matthews, N.C. That regional will begin play on Aug. 6.

“They did a great job,” Belue said. “They played hard and there was no quit in the team.”

Every player scored at least one run during the tournament, Belue said.

Cherokee Athletics advanced to Saturday’s championship game with a 4- 3 win over Lower State champion Goose Creek on Friday.

Tate fired a complete game three hitter with five strikeouts.

Marcus Elmore, Hames and Tate all had two hits and Miller knocked in two runs for Cherokee Athletics.

Calvin Juntnenen also hit safely for the local all-star team.

In the tournament opener on Thursday, McCurry went the distance, striking out seven and allowing four hits.

Elmore scored a run, Miller had two hits and Will Byars knocked in a run for Cherokee Athletics.

Jeremy Holden had a double for Cherokee Athletics.

Scott White, Greg Byars and Kevin Roper served as the team’s assistant coaches.

Notes ... The team extended its appreciation to Auto Stop on Cherokee Avenue, Corner Mart on Providence Road and the Corner Store on Hyatt Street.

The team is also seeking donations for its trip to the Southeast Regional.