Helias capitalized on Republic turnovers to stay in the game, then erased a late deficit to edge the Tigers 66-65 in the championship game of the Bolivar Liberator Tournament Saturday.
Republic led by five entering the fourth quarter before Helias mounted its comeback, outscoring the Tigers 18-12 in the final period. The Crusaders used full-court pressure to force several turnovers that led to quick baskets.
“Not only were we turning the ball over, but they were pick sixes. They were getting them and going and scoring,” said coach Tim Brown.
Republic still had two chances to win in the final seconds. Brenley Hagewood drove the baseline and got off a floater that rimmed out. C.J. Uhl grabbed the offensive rebound but had his putback attempt blocked as time expired.
Hagewood led Republic with 22 points. Brody Blades and Davin Parks each scored 14, and Uhl added 10 for the Tigers.
Logan Hillman’s 12 points paced Helias. Alex Schonhardt scored 10 for the Crusaders, who improved to 10-9.
“When we got it past half court, we were really good. But playing in the volleyball court really hurt us tonight,” Brown said. “Sometimes you have to learn the hard way to execute those things and be a little better, and hopefully we’ll learn from it.”
The loss dropped Republic to 15-3.
Score by Quarters
Helias 8-20-20-18-66
Republic 10-21-22-12-65
Helias Scoring
Logan Hillman 12, Alex Schonhardt 11, Rowen Buffington 10, Sam Lopez 8, Austin Weaver 7, Camren Hillen 7, Alex Wood 6, Ross Buffington 3, Beau Blanton 2
Republic Scoring
Brenley Hagewood 22, Brody Blades 14, Davin Parks 14, C.J. Uhl 10, Ryder Davis 3, Trenten Coleman 2
