Darren Kinnard/River Radio Sports Central
Russell Conwell/River Radio Sports Central
BENTON — The 49th Benton Invitational Tournament has a new look and some new teams. The opening night of the now 8-team bracketed tourney featured BIT newcomer Carterville meeting Meridian in an intriguing first round matchup.
The Bobcats broke open a close game by outscoring the Lions 17-2 in the third quarter to lead 42-24 after three. Carterville answered with a 14-2 spurt late in the fourth to pull within 50-47 with :13 to play, but Shamar Easley hit a pair of free throws to seal the win for Meridian.
Javionne Ranson led the Bobcats with 13 points. AJ Flenoid Jr. added 12. Colton Hawkins led the Lions with 12.
Meridian will face the host Rangers Friday night in the first semifinal. Benton beat Sesser-Valier in the opener Monday night 62-33. Carterville will take on S-V in the consolation bracket Thursday night.
The other first round games will be Tuesday night with Pinckneyville taking on Vandalia followed by another tourney newcomer, Herrin, facing Hamilton County.
