Republic used an 18-0 run in the first half to overcome an early deficit and set the stage for a 53-40 win over West Plains in the Blue & Gold quarterfinals Wednesday night. The Tigers trailed 12-4 late in the first quarter when they reeled off 18 consecutive points to assert control.
Broc Smith scored 18 points to lead the Tigers. Race Looney (13) and Tucker Thomas (10) also finished with double figures in scoring.
West Plains managed just two points in the second quarter, as Republic outscored the Zizzers 9-2 to grab a 22-14 lead at halftime. The lead had stretched to 20 points (37-17) with 2:34 remaining in the third quarter.
The Zizzers capitalized on Republic turnovers and sloppy play down the stretch to cut the lead to 13 by the final buzzer. Republic played most of the game without starting guard Trent Rackley, who landed awkwardly on his ankle in the first half.
Republic advances to the semifinals Thursday night against #1 seed Ozark, who beat Clever 79-50.
Individual Scoring
Broc Smith 18, Race Looney 13, Tucker Thomas 10, Hunter Creek 6, Cole Buxton 3, Drew McMillin 3