Darren Kinnard/River Radio Sports Central
Russell Conwell/River Radio Sports Central
BENTON — Breese Central and Benton established early in the season they were two of the best teams not only in the south, but the entire state. It figured there was a likely chance the Cougars’ and Rangers’ paths would cross in the postseason. When the boys basketball postseason assignments were released, mouths watered at the prospect of a Central/Benton matchup for a sectional championship.
Each team has taken care of its business to set up a massive showdown Friday night at Benton’s Rich Herrin Gymnasium for a spot in the Elite Eight.
Breese Central vs Massac County
The state’s number one ranked team in both the final AP and Nesto polls showed why in the first semifinal. The Cougars led 22-4 early in the second quarter on the way to a 60-33 win over Massac County. Zane Schrage led Central (32-2) with 18 points and 13 rebounds.
Hunter Box led Massac County with 10 points. The Patriots finish the season 22-10.
Benton vs Wesclin
Benton was ranked fourth (Nesto) and fifth (AP) in the final regular season 2A polls. The Rangers have had little resistance in the postseason, and rolled to another win, beating Wesclin 59-35.
The Rangers led 12-10 after one quarter, but outscored the Warriors 18-4 in the second quarter to seize control and never look back. Benton extended the lead to 47-22 after three, and triggered the continuous clock midway through the fourth quarter.
Docker Tedeschi stuffed the stat sheet once again. The Benton junior poured in 26 points to go with 14 rebounds, five blocks, five assists, and four steals. Luke Melvin added 13.
Benton improves to 30-3 on the season. Wesclin finishes 29-5.
