Rick Patrick
rick@greenepublishing.com
It was not without its fair share of difficulties, but in the end, it was a successful tournament when the Madison County High School (MCHS) Cowboys went on the road to Clay County High School to play in their annual holiday basketball tournament. The Cowboys went 2-1 over the weekend and brought home the consolation trophy.
The week's action began on Tuesday, Dec. 21, with a contest against the Wolfpack of Wolfson High School. The Cowboys struggled in the contest, shooting just 22 percent from the foul line, compared to the Wolfpack's 60 percent. The Cowboys dropped the game with a 45-30 final score.
Only one Cowboy player shot in double digits during the contest. Jamie Hampton led the Cowboys, with 11 points.
Then, on Wednesday, Dec. 23, the Cowboys bounced back as they dominated the Eagles of Christ's Church Academy, 63-28. “It was by far our most impressive night on the offensive end,” said Coach Allen Demps. “Scoring a season-high 63 points was something that this team needed. We've been struggling to put the ball in the basket so far, so any time the kids can make shots, it triggers a better effort on the defensive side of the ball.”
Orient Livingston led the Cowboys' scoring effort with 15 points. Kemorrin Akins contributed 12 points for the Cowboys.
On Thursday, Dec. 24, the Cowboys had a good reason to celebrate the holiday with a tough win over an out-sized Oakleaf team out of Orange Park, Fla. The Cowboys held Oakleaf to 27 percent shooting from the field, while hitting 30 percent of their shots from “three-point land.” The Cowboys emerged victorious with a 46-42 final score, earning the consolation trophy.
Hampton again led the Cowboys in scoring, with 13 points. Marcus Hawkins, Jr. was named to the All-tournament Team for his consistently outstanding play and leadership. “He [Hawkins] is a coach on the floor, and you need those types of kids to win close ball games,” said Coach Demps.
After playing in the Baker County Holiday Tournament, the Cowboys will hold their regular season home opener on Wednesday, Jan. 5, when they take on the Lions of Leon High School. Tip-off for that game is scheduled for 7 p.m., in the MCHS gymnasium.