Play-in game is a team’s last chance
By Steve Williams
Many high school district tournaments these days have play-in games. They are below the first round.
Most of these teams have sub-par records, but play-in games can be packed with drama and excitement.
Lose in a play-in game and a team’s season is over. Win a play-in game and a team is rewarded with at least three more games, including a regional tournament berth.
That was the scene Feb. 17 at Jody Wright Arena when the Carter and Fulton girls squared off for the fourth spot in District 3-3A, which includes only five teams. The fans on hand were treated to a must-win contest that wasn’t decided until the final minute.
Carter rallied from a seven-point deficit to tie Fulton in the final period, but the Lady Falcons came out on top 35-31.
“They were excited to get the win,” said Fulton Coach Tony Cooper. And after the excitement died down, his message was: “Take one game at a time and continue to stay focused on our goals.”
The battle with Carter “turned into a contest of who wanted it more,” said Cooper. Senior Dee Williams “really stepped up.”
The 5-11 Williams scored 10 points, grabbed eight rebounds and had three steals. Her two clutch free throws with 17.6 seconds on the clock gave Fulton a three-point margin and senior teammate Kamaria McDermott added a charity toss for a four-point lead with 7.6 to go to clinch it.
Freshman Shiloh Taylor also played a vital role in scoring and leading the team with 12 points and four rebounds added Coach Cooper. “Shiloh is definitely a player to watch in the future. She is committed and easy to coach.”
Another freshman, Jyree Shepard, added seven points and two rebounds.
“Our team has great chemistry, and we know it is tournament time,” said Cooper. “It is all about survive and advance.”
Even after a play-in game.
OTHERS: Karns earned a region berth for the third straight year under Coach Lauren Trent, but had one threat late in the first half when Central pulled within four points (23-19). A pair of 3-point shots took care of that and the Lady Beavers pulled away for a 65-41 win. Fourteen turnovers in the second half by the Lady Bobcats ended their season.
Host Karns’ boys lost by only five (69-64) to Campbell County in a District 3-4A game, but most everywhere else involving Knox County teams, the favorites won easily.
And the top seeds got automatic region berths.
