Broc Smith had scored 25 points in each of the Tigers’ last two games. Tuesday night, he stepped it up a notch. Smith scored 29 points, including six three-pointers, to help Republic knock off pesky Neosho 60-47.
The Wildcats (4-14) stayed close to Republic most of the night, and actually led 12-10 after the first quarter. But Smith’s four treys in the second quarter helped Republic take control at the midway point, and they led 26-17 at halftime.
“They were methodical on offense, and we kind of just let them do that,” says coach Trevyor Fisher. “We didn’t have a whole lot of intensity and fire to start the game. We kind of played on our heels offensively. We settled for quick shots instead of getting great shots…and I just don’t don’t think we had all five guys mentally ready to play. Dylan Brown and Jacob Coday came in and gave us a little spark there at the end of the half.”
Republic outscored Neosho 15-11 in the third quarter, but could never put the Wildcats away.
A.C. Marion led the Wildcats with 21 points, including 11 in the fourth quarter to keep Neosho within striking distance most of the way.
In addition to Broc Smith’s 29 points, Republic got a career-high nine points from Jaden Duvall and nine from Hunter Creek.
The Tigers improve to 15-4 overall, 3-0 in the Central Ozark Conference. Neosho falls to 4-15 (0-2).
Republic is back at home Friday night when they host Webb City. RHS will celebrate winter court-warming that night, as well.
Individual Scoring
Broc Smith 29, Hunter Creek 9, Jaden Duvall 9, Tucker Thomas 5, Race Looney 5, Dylan Brown 2, Trent Rackley 1
(Scoring totals courtesy Ken Knierim and Rich Miles)