Wildcats Exit Region 3 Tournament With Loss To Muhlenberg

Muhlenberg 70, Edmonson 39

Senior Griffin Spainhoward puts up a shot against Muhlenberg's Hayden Perkins.

Darren Doyle, story: Madison Doyle, photos:
It was a tough end of the season for Edmonson County as the Wildcats struggled for most of the night in a 70-39 loss to Muhlenberg County in round one of the Region 3 Tournament on Tuesday night at the Owensboro Sportscenter.

Eli Booker makes a move toward the basket.

Edmonson County shot poorly early and Muhlenberg was able to jump out to a 15-7 lead after the first quarter. The Mustangs continued both knocking down threes and pounding the paint. Early turnovers were also another factor for the Cats early and Muhlenberg led 29-17 at halftime.

Coach Mike McClintic shouts instructions to his players.

Muhlenberg doubled down in the second half and their lead only grew as the Wildcats failed to get any momentum. For one senior, it was the last game of his high school career. Senior Griffin Spainhoward left the court for his final game as a Wildcat basketball player. He led the team with 9 points.

"I can't say enough about him," said Coach Mac. "He could've quit on me two years ago, he wasn't getting in JV games, he wasn't hitting the floor, but by golly, he stuck with us, he came back 40 pounds heavier this year, he became a better ball player, and he's the leading scorer tonight. He got quick fouls and we had to pull him, but he didn't give up. He never gives up. He's one of the best kids I've ever coached, attitude-wise."

Chaz Wilson goes for two against the Mustangs.

Not only Spainhoward was the talk of McClintic, it was a team effort for 32 minutes, despite a hefty deficit throughout most of the game. A very emotional Mike McClintic struggled with the words.

"Muhlenberg shot the ball really well and we just didn't have an answer. I know you get tired of hearing this, but some of that's on me. We just didn't have an answer, but the kids didn't quit, though. I know it's a 31-point game, but they didn't quit. They, uh...they played until there was no time left on the clock," said Coach Mac as he fought through tears.

Nick Clemmons had 8 points, Mason Pierce added 7, Dalton Decker and Eli Booker each had 4, Chaz Wilson had 3, Daniel Woosley and Gavin Rose each had 2. 

Edmonson County ends their season as the District 12 runner-up with a record of 12-18.