Wildcats Defeat McLean, Advance To All A Regional Final Game

Caleb Skaggs goes for two of his 22 points against McLean County in the All A Regional on Jan 17, 2017.

Darren Doyle, story: Madison Doyle, photos:
The Wildcats crossed off another name from the list of teams standing in their way to the All A Regional Championship as they defeated the McLean County Cougars 53-35 last night in Cloverport.

Edmonson County never trailed in the contest as they took advantage of opportunities created by their defense by making several transition buckets.

Caleb Skaggs had a hot hand as he led the Wildcats in scoring with 22 points, connecting on 4-9 from behind the three-point line.

Daniel Caudill puts up a shot against McLean County in the All A Classic.

The Wildcats led 13-6 after the first quarter and although McLean had a bit of a run in the second as they outscored the Cats 10-8, Edmonson County took a 21-17 lead at the break. 

A big third quarter allowed EC to extend the lead to 39-25 going into the fourth, which allowed them to be able to relax in the last few minutes just a bit while cruising on to win.

Iszic Blankenship shoots over a McLean County defender on Jan 17, 2017.

Bailey Board finished with 13 points and four rebounds and Iszic Blankenship finished with 8 points and 8 rebounds, with half of his points coming off of two slam dunks in the second half that helped take the wind out of the Cougars' sails.

Coach Mike McClintic talked about the good and the bad he saw from his club during the win.

"When Caleb lets the offense come to him on the threes, he's got a lot better look with a better rhythm on his shot and he can nail it," he said. "Early on, we were just making one pass and letting the shots go up. We talked about that at halftime and we got in better rhythm on the offensive end. When Caleb can spot up, he's deadly from out there."

Although Blankenship's point totals have been higher in previous games, Coach Mac credited the senior center for his all-around play.

"Iszic is working hard," he said. "He's 6'7" and runs the floor and just does so many things well. He alters shots against the other team, he gets on the boards, and offensively we shoved him down (in the paint) just a little bit farther. He got a couple of good looks and got a couple of dunks in there."

Daniel Caudill had 8 points and 3 rebounds and Brayden Carey added two points.

While the Wildcats cruised at times against McLean County, Coach Mac said things will be much more difficult against a very strong and athletic Owensboro Catholic team in the finals on Friday night.

"They're good. They're strong inside, their defense is awesome and they're going to pressure us hard." Coach also said taking care of the ball and making O. Catholic work on their offensive end will be key.

"We have to play for 32 minutes...if we don't, we're going to be in trouble, but I've got faith in the kids. We're going to show up ready to play and we're going to do the best we can."

The Wildcats are now 9-6 on the season and have won eight out of the last nine games.

Both the Wildcats and the Lady Cats have advanced to championship games. The girls are scheduled to take on Owensboro Catholic on Thursday night and the Wildcats will take on Owensboro Catholic's boys team on Friday night, with each game scheduled to start at 6pm.

The WildcatsLive crew will broadcast both games, only on EdmonsonVoice.com. Pregame shows are scheduled to begin around 5:50pm.