The Republic Tigers hit 12 straight free throws down the stretch to salt away Branson and secure a victory on Senior Night, 64-60. Senior Nick Yocum scored 24 points to lead the way, including 6-of-6 free throw shooting in the 4th quarter.
Yocum and Payton Looney were honored before the game, as the only two seniors on a Tiger team that is 21-5 heading into district play next week. Coach Gary Stanfield says his senior class has had a big impact, despite being small in numbers.
“All the teams that I’ve been associated with that have been successful have had an abundance of seniors,” says Stanfield. “These two guys have infected the others with their desire and their leadership.”
“They’ve been a driving force behind goals and the other things that are so important in having any chance for success. It’s really kind of inspiring to watch.”
Yocum says the two share leadership, despite different styles.
“He’s a great leader. We both do different things,” says Yocum. “He’s a little more vocal than I am. I think that gets to them a little more than me just coming up to them individually.”
For Looney, Yocum’s presence is what makes the team go.
“He’s a blast to play with. I grew up playing with him, so it’s a long time coming,” Looney says. “Playing with him makes my Senior Night the best. Without him, we don’t go like we go.”
On this night, Looney, Yocum and the rest of the Tigers had to overcome a hot shooting night by Branson. The Pirates were only 9-16 coming into the game, but hit 12 3-pointers, including eight in the first half. They were led by Thatch Unruh with 14 points.
For the Tigers, besides Yocum’s 24, Cody Geiger scored 13 and Jake Fletcher scored 10.
Republic heads into district play next week with the top seed. They’ll meet the winner of the Rogersville/Bolivar game on February 23.