Bogue Chitto’s Bobcats were able to outlast Wesson in a 67-62 shootout Tuesday night.

Both teams went stride for stride, unable to build any momentum or generate separation on the scoreboard as both teams managed to make plays when needed. It wasn’t until late in the fourth quarter that Bogue Chitto was able to put the game away.

“I think the game went good for us,” said Bobcats junior Brandon Lewis. “I wouldn’t want to play for anyone else than the team I’m playing with. I love my team.”

The Cobras didn’t seem ready to face Bogue Chitto’s defense when the game started. Wesson got the first basket, but the Bobcats went on a 7-0 run and built a 20-8 lead to end the first quarter.

Wesson hit a three-pointer to open the second period and started eating into the Bobcats’ lead, but Bogue Chitto began winning the rebound war to stay on top. The Cobras made a big run at the end of the second quarter but still trailed 29-24 at halftime.

Bogue Chitto had trouble moving the ball in the third quarter and gave Wesson opportunities on turnovers, but the Cobras couldn’t capitalize. Both teams continued to trade points, but the Bobcats stayed out front by a dozen, 48-36, when the third quarter ended.

The Cobras’ defense tried to open up in the fourth quarter, knocking loose a few turnovers, but the Bobcats struck back fast. Bogue Chitto kept the pressure up and kept finding the basket, and Wesson’s last-ditch effort fell five points short.

“I really liked our effort from start to finish tonight. Wesson is a real great team that we have a lot of respect for,” said Bogue Chitto coach Mark Pitts. “We started the game like we have been really preaching and working on in practice — start strong and finish strong. And we did that in all phases of the game.”

Junior Malik Richardson led Bogue Chitto with 18 points. Junior Brandon Lewis had 16 points. Sophomore Zach Upkins had 13 points. Sophomore Josh Thomas had 11 points. Junior Damarcus Godbolt had seven points. Junior Darius Porter finished the game with two points.

Junior Shemar Dickerson led Wesson with 22 points. Junior J.D. Allen had 17 points. Kenner Bizot had eight points. Juniors Slay Acy and Malik Clay had four points each. Senior Brian Thomas and sophomore Samien Smith each had three points. Juniors Vick Edwards and Ahmaad Harvey each had two points.

Bogue Chitto improves to 6-3 on the season. They will be in action on Dec. 27 as they take part in the Simpson Academy Christmas Tournament.

Wesson falls to 9-3 with the loss. The Cobras take on Hazlehurst tonight.

Story by Dave Linton