Before Saturday’s game against Jefferson City Helias, Republic coach Tim Brown predicted that the team that came out ready to play would come out on top. His Tigers bolted from the gate, built a 22-11 lead at the end of the first quarter, and went on to win 62-48.
The win gave Republic a third-place finish at the Bolivar Tournament. Thayer, the team that beat Republic in the semifinals, beat Bolivar in overtime to win the tournament championship.
Helias made a run at the Tigers in the second half, cutting the lead to six points at the end of the third quarter, 43-37. But Republic used an 11-4 run to open the fourth quarter and take control the rest of the way.
“It’s hard to play in those games on a Saturday (after a loss), and… I’m super proud of our kids. That isn’t easy. I thought our kids came out with an edge against a really good basketball team,” said coach Tim Brown.
“We knew they were going to make a run… and I’m proud of how we handled their run. I think it shows a lot of maturity and growth for our basketball team.”
Ahlante Askew led Republic with 17 points, and Devon McMillin had 16. Brenley Hagewood was also in double figures with 10.
Republic improves to 12-7. The Tigers return to conference play with a home game against Branson February 1.
Republic won the concurrent Bolivar JV Tournament Saturday. Aslan Ebisch made a late three-pointer with Republic trailing to give the Tigers the win.
Republic Scoring
Ahlante Askew 17, Devon McMillin 16, Brenley Hagewood 10, Avery Moody 8, Will Fronabarger 5, Gunner Ellison 3, Gavyn Beckner 3
