Darren Kinnard/River Radio Sports Central
Russell Conwell/River Radio Sports Central
SESSER — The Goreville Blackcats captured the 42nd Sesser-Valier Holiday Tournament championship by holding off previously unbeaten Waltonville 66-59 in the title game.
With Todd Tripp back on sidelines following a three-game hiatus due to being ejected during a JV game last week, the Blackcats jumped out to a 10-2 lead. Waltonville closed within 17-14 by the end of the first quarter, but Goreville outscored the Spartans 20-7 in second quarter to lead 37-21 at the half.
Waltonville opened the third with a 13-3 run to pull within 40-34, but Goreville extended that lead back t0 14 at 53-39 after three. The Spartans made another run in the fourth, closing within 57-54 on a three-point play by Kyle Cooper, but the Blackcats held on for the win.
Drake Moss led the Blackcats with 16 points. Drake Buffington and Tyler Suits added 12 points apiece. Cooper led all scorers with 26.
