Darren Kinnard/River Radio Sports Central
Video courtesy Russell Conwell/River Radio Sports Central student correspondent
BENTON — It will be the host Rangers and Meridian in the championship game of the 2025 Benton Invitational Tournament.
Benton got 23 points from Docker Tedeschi and used a 7-0 run in the second quarter and a 10-2 run in the third the help subdue Carterville 52-42. Kaden Wilson led the Lions with 20.
In the second semifinal, Meridian built a 20-point first half lead then had to rally late to force overtime and beat Herrin 71-67. Despite missing big man AJ Flenoid Jr., the Bobcats got 18 points from Javionne Ranson, and 17 each from Colin Monan and Max Russell, with Monan adding 11 assists.
Kyrese Lukens and Grady Cox scored 18 points apiece to lead Herrin.
