Biggersville outscored Choctaw County 27-9 from the free throw line in a 59-50 victory at the Kiwanis Invitational Tournament at Northeast Mississippi Community College in Booneville. Biggersville took 47 free throws to 14 for Choctaw County and five Chargers fouled out.
Gary Beals said it is the most foul shots taken by an opponent in a game he has coached. “It was unreal.”
Once again, Choctaw County was hurt by a slow start, falling behind 13-7 after one period. The Chargers pulled with two, 46-44, entering the fourth quarter, and still trailed by two with less than four minutes remaining when a steal gave the Chargers a chance to tie the score. But a double dribble was called, and Biggersville pulled away down the stretch
Zavier Coleman led Choctaw County with 11 points. Logan Murphy had 9 points and a team high 6 rebounds before fouling out. Hunter Stacy scored 23 points for Biggersville.
Beals had praise for freshman Clark Crowley who saw his first varsity action. “I thought he played really well. He handled the pressure. They pressured us the whole game.”
Crowley had 5 points and 2 assists in 19 minutes before fouling out on a charge call.
“I’m pleased with the effort our kids gave. We got up early for a two hour bus ride to play an 11 o’clock game,” Beals said. “You have to take them to different areas to get used to the atmosphere.”
The Chargers begin 2019 play Jan. 8 with a game at Kosciusko. Beals is excited about the future with the addition of Kendall Coleman and Taiwan Cook to the team. They sat out the first semester after transferring from French Camp.
Beals feels a tough schedule has prepared his team for the remainder of the season. “We have played a tumultuous schedule.”
The Lady Chargers resume play Saturday with a game against Callaway at the Meridian Girls Shootout.
