HUNTER COOKSTON
Writer
The South Pittsburg Pirates and Whitwell Tigers met for the third time this season in the first round of the District Tournament. The Pirates had swept the Tigers during the regular season, and not much changed Friday night as South Pittsburg secured a 64-43 victory.
Whitwell kept the game close in the first half, particularly in the opening quarter, trailing by just two points. The Pirates edged the Tigers 13-11 in the first period. Whitwell’s ability to work the clock offensively and limit South Pittsburg’s possessions helped keep the score tight, but the Pirates still led 28-23 at halftime.
In the third quarter, Whitwell remained within striking distance until Brandon Goldsmith threw down a monstrous dunk that shifted the entire momentum of the game. After that play, the Pirates took control. South Pittsburg outscored Whitwell 36-20 in the second half to pull away.
For the Tigers, Tyson Brashears led the way with 20 points. Jordan Powell added 12 points, Brody Harvey finished with eight, and Colin Beason contributed three.
For the Pirates, JR Hardrick led all scorers with 22 points. Goldsmith added 16 points, Alex Phillips scored nine, Nicoli Burton had eight, Dayon Cooper finished with seven, and Shannon Pendergrass contributed two points.
Both teams will learn their regional standings once the District Tournament concludes. South Pittsburg will have the opportunity to capture the District Tournament Championship to go along with its regular-season district title.
Both teams return to action Saturday. Whitwell will travel to face either CSLA or Copper Basin, while South Pittsburg will host Lookout Valley or Chattanooga Charter School. Both games are scheduled to tip off at 6 p.m.