Darren Kinnard/River Radio Sports Central
MURPHYSBORO — After a scoreless first half that saw his team trail 19-13 at the break, Herrin senior Kyrese Lukens scored 18 points in the second half to lead the Tigers to a 52-45 win over previously unbeaten Murphysboro.
The Tigers erased that 6-point halftime deficit to lead 35-32 after three. Lukens then hit a 3-pointer to open the fourth quarter to extend Herrin’s lead to six.
Murphysboro closed within two twice early in the fourth quarter, but could never tie the game or regain the lead. Lukens and Jared Staple Junior then hit clutch free throws in the final minute to seal it.
The Tigers improve to 8-1, 2-0 in the SIRR Ohio. Murphysboro falls to 6-1, 1-1 in conference play.
