Panthers turn back Cougars

Published 6:00 am Monday, December 9, 2002

Lawrence County used outside shooting to make a strong,second-half run at the Brookhaven Panthers Friday night. TheCougars almost authored an upset but fell short, losing 53-46 inSinclair Gymnasium.

The Panthers (9-1) were without floor leader and playmakerBrandon Caston the second half due to a virus. Senior guard DexterMiddleton’s 11 points helped pick up the slack as Brookhavenrebounded from its first loss of the season, a 64-59 decision toMcComb, Nov. 25.

Brookhaven led the Cougars 27-23 at halftime. It still was a4-point margin, 43-39, starting the fourth quarter. A steal and alayup by Johnny London pulled the Cougars within a point, 45-44,with 6:23 left in the game.

Subscribe to our free email newsletter

Get the latest news sent to your inbox

The Panthers responded. Junior post Phillip Tobias hit a shortjumper and Jasper Hall nailed a pair of free throws, pushing theirteam ahead 49-44.

Coach Ronald Hines ordered his Panthers into a delay game andthey made 4 of 6 free throws in the last 3 minutes to secure thevictory.

“We didn’t execute in the clutch,” said Hines. “We went to atriangle and two (defense) and (Cougars) shot some threes overus.”

Hines said his younger players stepped up when Caston didn’treturn for the second half. “They handled the pressure in a toughsituation.

“Brandon had a stomach virus,” said Hines. “He said he didn’tfeel like playing the second half.”

Coach Bobby Lee’s Cougars got a game-high 12 points fromcenter-forward David Clark. Post Justin Lewis added 11 points and 9rebounds. London dished out 5 steals and made 4 assists.

In the JV boys game, Lawrence County edgedBrookhaven 54-47 in overtime, led by Ray Collins with 12 points.Jonathan Williams and Donovan Dixon added 10 points apiece.

Brookhaven was led by Micah Tanner and Michael Byrd with 11points.