Republic overcame a red-hot start by McDonald County to beat the Mustangs 67-48 Friday. The Tigers used a 20-3 run that started just before halftime to pull away.
The Tigers fell behind early, but took their first lead in the final minute of the 1st quarter, and led after one period, 19-18. The teams combined for seven 3-pointers in the opening quarter — including two by Nick Yocum, and one apiece by Nick Dibben and Brody Thompson.
In the second quarter they trailed by as many as six points, but just before halftime, they started the decisive run that put the game away. The Tigers scored the last three points of the half, then outscored McDonald County 17-3 in the third quarter, allowing just one field goal in the period.
Republic had three players in double figures in scoring, led by Nick Yocum with 15 points. Brody Thompson scored 13 and Nick Dibben had 12. Grant Hancock added 7 points, Payton Looney had 5, Cody Geiger scored 3, and Jake Fletcher and Marcus Miller had 2 apiece.
The Tigers improve to 6-3. McDonald County falls to 6-7.
The JV boys beat McDonald County 51-42.
Republic is back in action against Bolivar Saturday night with a JV and varsity game. Before that, the freshmen will play Cassville at 4:30.