Republic gave up 21 points in the first quarter to St. Joseph Benton Thursday, then allowed just 23 points the rest of the game. The Tigers overcame a rocky start to whip the Cardinals 61-44 in the opening round of the Bolivar Tournament.
Three different players finished in double-figure scoring, led by Ahlante Askew, who had 20. Devon McMillin, who scored 12 in the first half to keep the Tigers close while everyone else was ice cold, finished with 18. Brenley Hagewood added 14.
Benton outscored Republic 21-8 in the opening seven minutes of the game. But the Tigers outscored Benton by 30 points, 53-23, over the next 25 minutes to win going away.
Republic plays Thayer in the semifinals of the Bolivar Tournament Friday. The Bobcats beat Branson 68-52. Tipoff is scheduled for 8:30, and Republic Tiger Sports will carry the game live.
Republic Scoring
Ahlante Askew 20, Devon McMillin 18, Brenley Hagewood 14, Avery Moody 5, Gunner Ellison 2, Isaiah Nabors 1
