The Jr. Bulldogs triumphed over the Jr. Cyclones in a thrilling double overtime match on March 2, 2024, finishing with a score of 62-60 during the Tiger Classic held at Jonesborough Elementary. This closely contested game showcased the resilience and skill of both teams, each vying for momentum as they aim for successful runs in their respective districts.
The Bulldogs entered the game eager to secure a victory against the strong TAD team, while the Cyclones faced the challenge of playing without their standout player, Creed Baker, who suffered a foot fracture just a day prior. The absence of Baker significantly impacted the Cyclones, yet the team demonstrated remarkable tenacity throughout the match.
From the outset, both teams exchanged baskets in a game characterized by quick runs and equal scoring opportunities. Cyclones’ Carson Lyons managed to tie the game at 6-6 with an offensive rebound. As the first quarter progressed, the Bulldogs’ Rider Witten converted a steal into a basket, pushing TAD ahead to a 10-5 lead. The Cyclones responded with a crucial three-pointer from Wade Harrison in the closing seconds of the period.
As the second quarter unfolded, the Cyclones maintained a slight advantage. Witten’s two three-pointers ignited a 9-1 run, allowing the Cyclones to lead 21-14 at halftime after Braylon Hopewell scored a floater just before the buzzer.
The Bulldogs regrouped in the third quarter, with Harrison hitting two three-pointers to reclaim the lead at 27-26. The Bulldogs continued to build momentum, extending their advantage to seven points with a jumper from Rylen Jones and another long-range shot from Allison. Nevertheless, the Cyclones responded fiercely, with Witten sinking his third three-pointer to narrow the gap to 37-35 by the end of the quarter.
In the final period, the score remained tight as both teams traded baskets. A late basket from Jayden Johnson gave the Bulldogs a 43-41 lead with just over a minute left. However, Tristen Cole answered for the Cyclones, tying the game at 43 with 26 seconds remaining. The Bulldogs had a chance to clinch the game in regulation but missed critical free throws, which sent the match into overtime.
The Bulldogs quickly seized the lead in the first overtime, with Harrison scoring off a well-timed outlet pass, allowing them to go up 49-46. Just before the end of the period, Collin Whitehead of the Cyclones managed a desperate three-pointer, forcing the game into a second overtime.
In the second overtime, the Cyclones took a brief lead at 55-53 with a floater from Stephen Gorby. Yet, the Bulldogs’ Allison struck back with two three-pointers, pushing the Bulldogs ahead 60-56 with 46 seconds left. After a Bulldogs turnover, the Cyclones tied the game again at 60 with a score from Johnson. With less than 20 seconds on the clock, Hopewell made a critical layup while being defended, securing the Bulldogs’ victory at 62-60.
After the game, Leon Tolley, head coach of the Jr. Bulldogs, praised both teams for their performance. “We knew it would be a game of runs, and they outplayed us early. We played well at the end. Two evenly matched teams,” he stated, highlighting the Cyclones’ resilience despite their injury setback.
Both teams displayed commendable skill and determination, with Gorby leading the Cyclones with 19 points, supported by Witten with 14 and Lyons with 12. For the Bulldogs, Jones and Harrison both contributed 17 points, while Allison added 14. The match not only served as a significant moment for the Jr. Bulldogs but also foreshadowed the possibility of a rematch in the upcoming tournament championship game.
