Wildcats Overcome Deficit For District Win Over Grayson

Edmonson Turns Early Struggles Into 51-43 Win

The Wildcats celebrate their first district win of the season over Grayson County.

Chaz Wilson goes for two of his 16 points against the Cougars.

Darren Doyle, story: Madison Doyle, photos:
The Wildcats were greeted by the Grayson County Cougars on Q Daryius McHenry's two-handed dunk from a lob pass just seconds into the game on Friday night for the Cougars' first points. That led to a big quarter from Grayson County and an 18-8 deficit for the Cats heading into the second; however, Edmonson County regained their composure, there were no more dunks, and Edmonson pulled out a very gritty, hard-earned 51-43 district win on Friday night.

Mason Pierce puts up a shot against Grayson's Q Daryius McHenry.

Edmonson County dialed in their 2-3 zone defense in the second quarter which shut down Grayson County's offense. A 16-5 run in the quarter gave the Wildcats a 24-23 lead at the halftime break. The Cats shot no free throws during the entire first half. 

Grayson County responded in the third with a 10-4 run that put them on top 36-34 heading into the fourth quarter.

Eli Booker puts up a shot against Grayson County.

Once again, the Cats adjusted in the fourth, tightened up their defense and went to work. Edmonson County regained the lead at 38-37 with just over five minutes to go on Chaz Wilson's bucket. They never trailed again. Edmonson County hit their free throws down the stretch. Wilson hit eight straight foul shots during the game (8/10). He finished with a team-high 16 points and 14 rebounds. 

Edmonson County went on to win 51-43 in their first district win of the season.

Dalton Decker with a shot against the Grayson County Cougars.

"It was a great win and I'm so proud of these kids," said Coach Mac. "We got down early and I was concerned, but the kids responded and did a great job."

Coach Mac credited the Wildcat defense for the surge in the second quarter, coupled with solid rebounding. Edmonson County also turned the ball over less and improved their free throw shooting (71%), two factors that have led to struggles in previous game.

Mason Pierce added 13 points, Dalton Decker had 12, Eli Booker scored 6, and Nick Clemmons and Griffin Spainhoward added 2 points each. 

Edmonson County is now 2-3 on the season and will take on South Warren tonight on the road.