It was another solid week for the East Jackson Eagles, as they picked up two region wins, but lost in a close contest to in-county rival Jefferson.
Up next is a trip to Oconee County, where they’ll face the Warriors of Oconee County on Saturday. Going into play on Tuesday, Oconee County was 2-4 in their region, and 6-10 overall.
In their last three meetings, the Warriors have come out on top, including in tournament play back in December.
Tip-off is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.
The Eagles started off their week with a trip to Oglethorpe County to face the Patriots, a team that East Jackson had solidly beaten in their three previous meetings.
In the first half, the Eagles couldn’t seem to get their legs under them, and found themselves trailing 34-32 at the half.
The second half was a different story, as East Jackson returned to the court swinging, outscoring the Patriots 26-4. The Eagles let that momentum carry them on through the fourth quarter to a 75-58 victory, their fifth in the region.
Kolby Gilbert led in scoring for East Jackson with 26 points, while Standrick Stephens and Jermaine Davis scored 10 points each.
Next up was a historic home stand for the Eagles, as they played host to the Jefferson Dragons for the first time in school history.
With a tremendous crowd on hand, the atmosphere was electric as the two teams took the court.
The fans were treated to a classic back and forth game, as East Jackson first jumped out to a lead, then found themselves going back and forth through the first half.
The two teams found themselves tied 25-25 at the half, as Jefferson made a late charge to tie the game.
But in the second half, Jefferson dominated the glass, taking the lead and the advantage. East Jackson fought back, but just missed at the end as they fell 60-53.
Gilbert led in scoring with 25 points, while Stephens and Evan Williamson scored nine points each.
“It was great to see the kids hugging before and after game while competing at a very high level with great sportsmanship during the game,” said coach Brian Turner. “I would like to thank the fans of both schools for their turnout on Friday. That is what high school basketball is all about.
“Both should be very proud of the effort and the sportsmanship shown by both teams.”
For more on this story, see Wednesday's edition of The Commerce News or The Jackson Herald.
