Choctaw County had a horrible game shooting free throws against West Point, 3 of 15, but still managed to win 44-40.
“If you can do that and still win, that's not a bad sign,” said coach Gary Beals. “I'm very proud of the kids' effort.”
The Chargers were considerably better from the floor ,connecting of 13 of 27 shots, including 5 of 13 on three-point attempts. Choctaw County trailed 18-15 at the half, but outscored West Point 22-10 in the third quarter and held on for the win.
Kendall Coleman had a game high 13 points for the Chargers. Jared Bellew had 10 points and 10 rebounds. West Point was almost as bad as Choctaw County from the line, converting four of 15.
The Chargers played in the New Site tournament with a win against Mantachie 66-62 and a loss to Tremont 64-47.
Choctaw County had four players in double figures against Mantachie. Bellew had 15 points, Tylan Carter 14 on five of seven shooting, Zavier Coleman 13 and Ques McNeal 10. McNeal also had eighth rebounds, five steals and four assists.
“Ques McNeal did a great job. He created some turnovers,” Beals said.
Tremont jumped out to a 21-7 lead after one quarter and shot 56 percent from the floor (20 of 36). Zavier Coleman led the Chargers with 11 points. Bellew had nine points, Israel Whitmore eight and Tracy Jobe seven points, four rebounds, three assists and three steals.
GIRLS
The Lady Chargers defeated West Point 43-36. At the New Site tournament, Choctaw County defeated Tremont 35-16 but lost to the host team 78-40.
LaGenesis Johnson scored 21 points for the Lady Chargers against West Point and Jalia James had nine.
Junior varsity players saw considerable action against Tremont. Johnson scored 12 points, Tyliah Alston seven and Raquela Graham six.
Johnson scored 17 points in the loss to New Site, James 12 and Graham nine. Hannah Campbell had 24 points for New Site.
With victories over Choctaw County and Mantachie, New Site improved to 14-0, ranked 11th in the state by the website MaxPreps.
The Chargers and Lady Chargers were set to play Leake Central Monday and Louisville Tuesday, weather permitting. The boys will play in the East Webster Shootout December 27.
