The Tug Valley Panthers (8-1) showed why they are one of best teams in Class A on Tuesday as they took control of the game early and never let up in an 86-63 win over the visiting Tolsia Rebels (8-3) in Naugatuck.
The Panthers jumped out to a hot start in the opening period behind strong defense and shooting as Kaden Hale hit two 3-point field goals to help Tug Valley take an early 18-6 advantage. The lead grew in the second period as Hale remained hot, scoring 9 points in the frame to help the Panthers maintain a 42-21 lead at the intermission.
The Rebels mounted a little comeback early in the third quarter as Parker Watts started finding his rhythm. Tolsia had the lead down to 14, but Tug Valley quickly extended the lead back out as the Panthers took a 62-41 advantage into the final period. From there, Tug Valley kept the Rebels at bay and swept the regular season series against their rivals in the win.
Hale led the Panthers with 21 points. Braydun Ferris followed with 16 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists. Buddy Marcum bruised his way to 13 points. Ashton Davis and Bryson Elia both scored 11 points each. Davis also had 5 assists, 7 rebounds and 4 steals. Elia also added 4 rebounds and 6 steals. Brady Brewer and Carson Newsome each recorded 5 points. Preston May and Evan Bryant finished with 2 points each.
Tolsia was paced by Watts with 25 points and 8 rebounds. Bryson Muncy added 16 points. Josh Hofmiester netted 9 points. Robert Evans scored 4 points. CJ Waller and Cole Blackburn fired in 3 points each. Dakota Blackburn chipped in 2 points. Evan Ball finished with 1 point.
Tug Valley next plays on Thursday at Van in a 7:30 pm clash. Tolsia is scheduled to host Calvary Baptist on Friday at 7:30 pm.
Photos Courtesy of Karen Watts
