Cats Drop Another Nail-Biter In Caveland Classic

Taylor County Comes Back In Final Minutes For 57-52 Win Over Edmonson

Zander Bass goes for two of his 21 points against Taylor County.

Darren Doyle, story: Madison Doyle, photos:
The Wildcats had a tough time down the stretch as Taylor County, top-rated in the 5th Region, came from behind to win 57-52 on the final night of the Rafferty's/Double Dogs Caveland Classic.

After hitting a free throw to take a 1-0 lead at the beginning of the game, Edmonson County led the rest of the way until Taylor County's Jackson Wise hit a three-pointer to take a 53-51 lead with 2:24 left in the ballgame.

Braden Wall puts up a shot against Taylor County's Landon Blakey in the Caveland Classic.

The game had several controversial calls, and one with 18 seconds to go when Edmonson's Will Alexander and Taylor County's Jalen Gribbens fought for the ball with a Cardinal 53-52 lead. As both players struggled for possession, the Taylor County bench called for a timeout and it was granted by the official, although video replay shows it should have been a held ball as neither player had clear possession.

Edmonson County fouled with 12 seconds to go, where Taylor County hit one of two free throws; however, the Cardinals were able to grab the offensive rebound and put the ball back in for a 56-52 with 8 seconds left.

The Wildcats turned the ball over on the inbound pass and fouled Taylor County again. The Cardinals hit one of two free throws for a 57-52, which would be the final score.

Edmonson County was led by Zander Bass, who had 21 points and 3 rebounds. Braden Wall had 7 points and 2 rebounds, Braxton Highbaugh added 9 points and 6 rebounds, Caden Mills had 6 points and 3 rebounds, Boden Bates added 5 points, and Will Alexander added 4 points. 

It was the third consecutive loss for the Wildcats who now fall to 6-4 on the season. They are scheduled to play Meade County in the Independence Bank Classic at the Owensboro Sportscenter on December 28th at 10AM.