GOODMAN—The Tigers lost another close one Monday night, this time at Holmes. CCC got 15 points from Michael West III, but the night belonged to the home team. The Bulldogs prevailed by a final of 68-65.The Tigers took the lead midway through the 1st half on a bucket by Dekeidrian Hall. They built on the advantage in the ensuing minutes, piling the lead as high as 9 with just over 7 minutes to go. But the Bulldogs made their run, working back into the game and briefly retaking the lead before Willie Bronson nailed a stepback 3 as time expired in the half to give the Tigers a 37-36 advantage.
Holmes started the 2nd period strong, building a double digit lead behind their star guard Daryl Macon. Macon, who ranks 3rd nationally in scoring average, would finish with 23 in the contest.
The Tigers withstood the blows and staged a comeback of their own, tying the game with just under 5 minutes to play. After the teams traded leads, West III nailed a clutch 3 that evened the contest at 65 with 3 minutes to go.
Free throws by Dietrich Taylor brought the lead back to Holmes, but the Tigers had a final chance to tie or win it. With the score 67-65 and 15 seconds to go, West III took a handoff from Monix and drove down the lane. He was tied up by Holmes defenders and seemingly fouled, though no whistle blew. Jamahl Jackson managed to strip the ball out of his hands and was immediately fouled by Tiger guard Ladarius Jones.
With 5 seconds left, Jackson went 1 of 2 in his double bonus free throw opportunity. One final attempt to tie the game was made by Cadarrius Cannon, who lofted a desperation midcourt 3 that was blocked before it had a chance.
The loss was the Tigers' 17th of the season. They will continue their quest for their 1st MACJC North win of the year next Monday at East Mississippi. Tipoff in Scooba is set for 7:30 pm.
A live stream will be available on coahomasports.com.
For photos from the game at Holmes, please click HERE.
