Lions Take 10-Point Win

Learning how to win is part of the growing process facing a young pack of Lions early in the 2011-12 basketball season.

Cannon County didn’t put forth one of its best efforts of the young season, but the Lions did make the winning plays down the stretch to turn back Greater Gwinnett (Ga.), 59-49, in the Mitch Wilson State Farm/Huff & Puff Trucking Thanksgiving Classic at Cannon County High School Friday (Nov. 25).

Cory Henley and Tanner Larson led a balanced Cannon County (2-2) scoring attack with nine points each, and Brad Hutchins added eight.

Cannon County evened its record despite rather sloppy and lackluster play throughout the game.

“We seemed lethargic out there,” Cannon County Head Coach Matt Rigsby said. “I’m never disappointed when we give great effort, and I don’t think the effort was great. On the other hand, I’m proud of the guys for making winning plays down the stretch. Everything is part of the learning process right now, but effort should never be a concern.”

The Lions were in control throughout but they were never able to put the visitors away. With two minutes remaining in the third quarter the Barons had closed to within 33-31 and hoping for a holidayupset on the road. Cannon County played its best when the game was on the line.

Jarrett Melton ignited a 14-0 run with driving layup that provided a 35-31 advantage with 2:17 remaining. Larson scored seven of nine during the stretch, including a clutch three-point play that extended the Cannon County cushion to 40-31 at the end of the third quarter.

Zach Higgins contined the run with a long 3-pointer to start the fourth quarter and the Barons never got closer than nine down the stretch.

Cannon County faces Jackson County in its second and final game of the Classic Saturday at 8 p.m.