The Martin County Cardinals got one step closer to state championship as they defeated the Harlan Green Dragons, 50-49, in the opening round of the Kentucky All A State Tournament in Richmond on Thursday.
The Cardinals (19-2) took a slim 13-12 lead after the first frame, but the Green Dragons (19-3) fought back to take a 30-27 lead at the half. Martin County outscored Harlan, 10-9, during the third quarter to cut the Green Dragons’ lead to 39-37 heading into the final quarter. Martin County was able to outscore Harlan in the final quarter, 13-10, to pick up the huge win.
Dray Duff led the way for the Cardinals with 15 points, 5 assists and 4 steals. Luke Hale followed with 12 points. Brayden McKenzie fired in 8 points. Matthew Linville recorded 7 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks. Jacob Sturgell and Blake Maynard finished with 4 points apiece. Sturgell also snagged 7 rebounds.
Harlan was paced by Will Austin’s 16 points and 18 rebounds.
Overall, Martin County was able to overcome Harlan’s 47-28 rebounding advantage by holding the Green Dragons to 29.2% shooting from the field.
The Cardinals will next play Evangel Christian (17-3) on Friday in the second round of the All A State Tournament. Evangel Christian defeated Murray, 65-43, in its first round match up. The game is set to start at 5 pm.
Martin County (50) – Dray Duff 15, Luke Hale 12, Brayden McKenzie 8, Matthew Linville 7, Jacob Sturgell 4, Blake Maynard 4
Harlan (49) – Will Austin 16, Jae dyn Gist 14, Kyler McLendon 13, Kaleb McLendon 6
