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Commandos hold off Westmoreland

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HENDERSONVILLE The Hendersonville High School boys basketball team never trailed on Tuesday evening.

However, the Commandos were inches away from facing a deficit at the final horn.

Visiting Westmoreland misfired on a pair of 3-pointers in the final seconds, allowing the Commandos to hold on for a 53-51 victory in a Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association Hall of Champions contest.

“You can’t be upset for winning,” Hendersonville sophomore point guard Cooper Smith said. “We’re excited to get the season underway. We’re excited to get the win. You always wish you would have won by more, but a win is a win.”

Eagle senior guard Dalton Leath made a pair of 3-pointers early in the fourth quarter, the first of which tied the contest at 41 and the second pulling his squad back to within a point with 5:43 remaining.

However, Commando senior Austin Kirby scored the next five points to give his squad a six-point cushion.

Hendersonville High senior guard Austin Kirby elevates to shoot a second-quarter 3-pointer in front of Westmoreland seniors Landon Graves (at left) and Caleb Graves (at right) as Commando senior Preston Brown moves into the lane to rebound.

Hendersonville High senior guard Austin Kirby elevates to shoot a second-quarter 3-pointer in front of Westmoreland seniors Landon Graves (at left) and Caleb Graves (at right) as Commando senior Preston Brown moves into the lane to rebound.

“There were three opportunities where we were up six or seven points and had the ball, and we didn’t capitalize,” Hendersonville head coach Kerry West said. “Those things hurt.”

A pair of late turnovers by the Commandos helped open the door for Westmoreland.

“We need to keep a good head on our shoulders,” Smith said. “We need to make sure we take care of the ball and execute.”

West added, “We went to a little stall game. We had a couple of not smart plays at all. We were lazy with the ball. We were not crisp with the ball.”

Eagle senior guard Caleb Graves spun into the lane for a one-handed shot that fell with 1:38 remaining, and junior teammate Lucas Garrison made two free throws 39 seconds later, tying the contest at 51.

Westmoreland High junior forward Lucas Garrison elevates to shoot a third-quarter 3-pointer.

Westmoreland High junior forward Lucas Garrison elevates to shoot a third-quarter 3-pointer.

“Lucas came in and gave us such a different look,” Westmoreland head coach Jason Graves said. “He knocked down some shots.

“I was pleased with how we played and competed with a lot bigger school.”

Hendersonville senior forward Preston Brown was fouled as he put his own missed shot back up with 29.9 seconds showing. Brown sank both free throws, proving to be the difference.

Leath forced an off-balance 3-pointer in the final seconds that was off-target, but senior Griffin Garrison saved the ball inbounds along the baseline. Classmate Zeke Webb gained possession, but his 3-pointer at the buzzer bounced off of the back of the rim.

“We were going to try to get a three to win it,” Jason Graves said. “It’s what we chose to do in the timeout. We didn’t run the play exactly the way we wanted, but we got a good look.”

Brown scored 13 of his game-high 18 points in the first quarter, helping his squad out to a 24-17 lead.

However, he produced just one more field goal for the remainder of the contest.

“He was working well inside,” Smith said. “After that, they started trapping off of him. So, we were looking to swing it more.”

West added, “At halftime, we talked about how they were doubling on him, that skip (pass) threes would be there. We didn’t shoot it great. Preston was big for us though.”

Hendersonville High senior forward Preston Brown dribbles to the basket as Westmoreland senior Griffin Garrison pursues. Brown scored a game-high 18 points in the Commnandos' 53-51 victory on Tuesday evening.

Hendersonville High senior forward Preston Brown dribbles to the basket as Westmoreland senior Griffin Garrison pursues. Brown scored a game-high 18 points in the Commnandos’ 53-51 victory on Tuesday evening.

Lucas Garrison, junior forward Colton Pippen and senior guard Landon Dunigan all came off the bench to provide first-half, offensive production for the Eagles.

Those contributions helped Westmoreland pull even at 28 when Webb made a 3-pointer late in the half.

“We are going to have to shoot the ball well, and we did,” Jason Graves said. “Late in the game, we missed a couple of shots we needed to make, but we battled, created opportunities for ourselves and kept ourselves in the game.”

Ryne Loper’s layin gave the Commandos a 30-28 lead at halftime.

Smith took over in the third quarter, scoring eight of his 15 points in the period (all via layins).

“Cooper Smith made some huge plays down the stretch,” West said.

Smith added, “With Preston getting those points, it helped the rest of us to get open. They were pressuring high (out on the floor in half-court sets).”

Kirby was the third Hendersonville player to score in double figures, providing 12 points.

Leath scored a team-high 15 points, and Garrison produced a career-high 10 points.

Westmoreland High senior guard Dalton Leath scored a team-high 15 points.

Westmoreland High senior guard Dalton Leath scored a team-high 15 points.

“Give Westmoreland credit,” West – whose squad played just one of its five newly-arrived players who came from the school’s football team (junior center Jordan Amis) on Tuesday – said. “They shot extremely well. They made eight 3-pointers.

“Our kids fought and hung in there and found a way to win. We like this team. It’s a great group to work with.”

The Commandos open the regular season with a game at Macon County on Monday, followed by a home game against Clarksville Northwest on Tuesday.

The Eagles host neighboring Portland on Tuesday.

Reach Craig Harris at charris@mtcngroup.com or at 615-575-7138. Follow him on Twitter @HarrisGNESports.

WESTMORELAND (51) – Dalton Leath 15, Lucas Garrison 10, Caleb Graves 8, Colton Pippen 7, Zeke Webb 7, Landon Dunigan 4.

HENDERSONVILLE (53) – Preston Brown 18, Cooper Smith 15, Austin Kirby 12, Ryne Loper 5, Jason Hernando 3.

Half: 30-28, Hendersonville. Three-point goals: Westmoreland 8 (Leath 3, Garrison 2, Webb 2, Dunigan 1), Hendersonville 3 (Hernando 1, Kirby 1, Loper 1). Records: Westmoreland 0-1, Hendersonville 1-0.


Prep playoff notebook: Wilson Central defies record

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Wilson Central football coach Brad Dedman believed his Wildcats were going to be a good team before the season began.

Wilson Central football coach Brad Dedman

Wilson Central football coach Brad Dedman

After struggling to a 4-6 mark in the regular season, including losing four of the last five, Dedman believed his team was better than its record.

The Wildcats have backed up Dedman since the Class 6A playoffs began.

Wilson Central (6-6) has pulled off two consecutive upsets in the playoffs and earned a state quarterfinals appearance Friday night at No. 1 seed Whitehaven (11-1).

“Once the playoffs started, we’ve preached that it’s a new season,” Dedman said. “So far, we’ve taken advantage of that new season. I thought at the beginning of the season that we would be better than our record was.”

So far the sixth-seeded Wildcats have knocked off No. 3 seed Cordova 28-9 and No. 2 seed Franklin 21-20. The win over Franklin came just a few weeks after the Rebels defeated Wilson Central 35-3.

TSSAA playoffs: Third-round breakdown

The biggest turnaround?

“A lot of it was the confidence we gained in beating a good Cordova team,” Dedman said. “The first time we played Franklin, we weren’t mentally ready. But we were also without our two starting safeties (Ray Coggins, Ries Adkisson. Ray is the leader of our defense. He’s our spark plug.”

Whitehaven will be the toughest game to date for the Wildcats. The team that advances will get the winner of Ravenwood-White Station in the semifinals.

“When we started the playoffs, we knew we would have to beat good teams,” Dedman said. “This is one of those good teams. It’s a ‘name’ team, with the tradition they’ve had the past few years. Nobody expected us to be here, except us.”

Tennessee high school football playoff brackets

Impossible task? Blackman has performed well this postseason, capturing lopsided wins over Dobyns-Bennett and Siegel by a combined 74 points. However, this week’s challenge is as difficult as they come.

In order to make the Class 6A semifinals, first-year coach David Watson and the Blaze will need to take down East Tennessee juggernaut Maryville, which owns the state’s longest winning streak at 42 games.

“I’m excited about it,” Watson said. “If you are playing Maryville in November, you’ve had a good year. We’ll prepare hard, and our kids will be excited; our student body will be excited.”

The Rebels, who’ve won a TSSAA-leading 15 state titles (10 since 2000), outscored opponents by a combined 418-99 margin en route to a fifth straight undefeated regular-season, and they’ve beaten their first two postseason opponents — Warren County and Cookeville — by a combined score of 94-17.

“We’ll go up there and give it a good shot,” Watson added. “We’ll play hard. I truly believe we’ll answer the bell. We’ll go and play, and we’ll see what happens.”

Star-studded: This week’s slate of playoff games includes four matchups that will feature at least two Mr. Football finalists.

Nashville Christian senior linebacker and Tennessee commitment Daniel Bituli (1A Lineman) will square off against Wayne County quarterback Preston Rice (1A Back) in Friday’s Class 1A quarterfinal. White Station senior Oregon commitment Dillon Mitchell (6A Back) will face off against Ravenwood senior Crews Holt (Kicker) in a 6A quarterfinal.

Christian Brothers senior Austin Lee (DII-AA Back) and Montgomery Bell Academy junior Ty Chandler (DII-AA Back) — the top two rushers in Division II-AA — will also be going head-to-head in Friday’s semifinal, as will Brentwood Academy senior Tennessee commitment Bryce Mathews (DII-AA Lineman) and Baylor senior Notre Dame commitment Ryan Parker (DII-AA Lineman).

Gaudy numbers: Through the second round of the state playoffs, the offenses were ahead of the defenses. Of the 48 teams remaining in Division I, 30 scored 35 points or more in last week’s victories.

Seven of the eight teams remaining in 6A scored 35 points or more in last week’s wins (four topped the 42-point mark). Six of the eight 5A teams scored 35 or more.

Overall, 23 teams topped the 40-point mark last week, with 10 of those eclipsing 50 points.

Michael Murphy and Tom Kreager contributed to this report.

Athletes take advantage of early signing period

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The early signing period kicked off Wednesday with athletes across the Midstate signing National Letters of Intent with colleges all over the country.

The 2015 Tennessean All-Midstate Girls and Boys Basketball Players of the Year. Blackman's Crystal Dangerfield will be heading to Connecticut and Braxton (Blackwell) Key, formerly with CPA and now with Oak Hill Academy, will be playing for Alabama.

The 2015 Tennessean All-Midstate Girls and Boys Basketball Players of the Year. Blackman’s Crystal Dangerfield will be heading to Connecticut and Braxton (Blackwell) Key, formerly with CPA and now with Oak Hill Academy, will be playing for Alabama.

Possibly the most high-profile early signees of 2015 were Blackman’s Crystal Dangerfield and former CPA standout Braxton Key.

A two-time reigning state champion and Gatorade state player of the year and reigning Class AAA Miss Basketball won’t have to adapt to not playing for a perennial powerhouse when she leaves the Lady Blaze next year.

Dangerfield will be heading to Connecticut to play for Geno Auriemma and the 10-time NCAA champion Lady Huskies.

After leaving CPA to attend Oak Hill, Va., last summer, Key, a two-time Class AA Mr. Basketball, decided to go to college a little closer to home.

The 6-foot-8 forward chose Alabama where he will play for former NBA coach Avery Johnson.

Ravenwood had nine athletes sign — three in softball, three in golf and one each in volleyball, lacrosse and track and field.

BASEBALL

Haddon Adams, Riverdale – North Carolina State

Korey Bell, Brentwood – Ole Miss

Alex Brewer, Forrest – Vanderbilt

Alex Carignan, Siegel – Air Force

Jackson Curb, Franklin – Belmont

Christian Denton, Page – Palm Beach Atlantic

Sam Folks, BGA – UT Martin

Coleman Goodwin, Ensworth – Lipscomb

Logan Jarvis, Franklin – Belmont

Jacob Key, Siegel – Illinois-Chicago

Mckenzie Kilburn, Summertown – Trevecca

Zach King, Spring Hill – Vanderbilt

Micah McClellan, Stewarts Creek – Lee

Mitchell Runnion, Page – Lincoln Memorial

Arcentae Stone, Stratford – Maryville

Will Wacaser, Hendersonville – Austin Peay

Zell Walker, Nashville Christian – Tennessee Tech

Peyton Warren, FRA- West Alabama

Grant Williams, Hendersonville – MTSU

BOYS BASKETBALL

Jordan Bone, Ensworth – Tennessee

Kenny Cooper, FRA – Lipscomb

Ross Cummings, Creek Wood – Mercer

Brandon Dansoh, Cane Ridge – Tusculum

Nick Hopkins, Fayetteville – Belmont

Braxton Key, Oak Hill/CPA – Alabama

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Jazz Bond, Blackman – South Florida

Lea Lea Carter, Dickson Co. – Vanderbilt

Crystal Dangerfield, Blackman – Connecticut

Le’Jzae Davidson, East Nashville – Furman

Ansley Eubank, Oakland – Northern Kentucky

Shelby Gibson, Oakland – Ole Miss

Leslie, Golden, Columbia Acad. – Samford

MacKenzie Iles, Cumberland Co. – Tennessee Tech

Windee Johnson, Pope John Paul II – Spring Hill

Caroline Patrick, Oakland – Palm Beach Atlantic

Carleigh Short, Hendersonville – Lipscomb

DIVING/SWIMMING

Charlie Clifton, Ensworth – Georgia

Patrick Kelly, Oakland – Colgate

Chase Van Patten, Siegel – Washington-St. Louis

FOOTBALL

Joseph Snowden, MBA – Columbia

BOYS GOLF

Davis Armstrong, Lipscomb Acad. – Lipscomb

Connor Downey, MBA – Villanova

Brayden Garrison, Ravenwood – Tennessee

Ben Garvin, Ravenwood – Christian Brothers

Jay Grove, Ravenwood – Tennessee St.

Trevor Johnson, Brentwood – Louisville

Austin Lancaster, Hendersonville – Austin Peay

Brock Ochsenreiter, Ensworth – Indiana

Tanner Owens, Blackman – Virginia Tech

Jordan Reynolds, Central Magnet – Faulkner

Jack Story, Dickson Co. – UT-Martin

Hunter Wolcott, Dickson Co. – Tennessee

GIRLS GOLF

Reagan Kinnie, Riverdale – Carson-Newman

Meghann Stamps, Hendersonville – Austin Peay

BOYS LACROSSE

Jake Fowler, Riverdale – Alabama-Huntsville

Aaron Weisel, Father Ryan – Mount Saint Mary’s

GIRLS LACROSSE

Megan Hawken, Ravenwood – Radford University

Grace Lascara, Pope John Paul II – Kennesaw State

GIRLS SOCCER

Callie McKinney, Franklin – Louisville

SOFTBALL

Kaylee Davis, Mt. Pleasant – Martin Methodist

Drew Dudley, Ravenwood – Austin Peay

Katie Eakes, Wilson Central – North Alabama

Sabrina Gilliam, Columbia Acad. – North Alabama

Cassidy Hale, Franklin – Austin Peay

Abby Irwin, Ravenwood – Belmont

Brooklin Lee, Dickson Co. – Belmont

KaraLynn Levy, Siegel – Carson-Newman

Peyton Mathis, Hickman Co. – Union

Alley McDonald, Pope John Paul II – Southeast Louisiana

Molly McKelvy, Zion Christian – Union

Autumn Ogletree, Ravenwood – Florida Southwestern

Savannah Rosevear-Goetch, Page – MTSU

Ashley Scott, Dickson Co. – Union

Hannah Thompson, Hendersonville – Austin Peay

Dallas Weatherly, Harpeth Hall – Bethel

Veronica Westfall, Siegel – Softball

Taylor Woodring, Clarksville – Cumberland

GIRLS TENNIS

Skylar McDonald, Fayetteville – Dallas Baptist

BOYS TRACK & FIELD/CROSS COUNTRY

Adam Neelly, Gallatin – Memphis

GIRLS TRACK & FIELD/CROSS COUNTRY

Madelaine Bayless, Brentwood – Colorado

Hannah Caldwell, Brentwood – UT-Chattanooga

Julia Henderson, Ravenwood – UT-Chattanooga

Riley Killian, Creek Wood – Cumberland

Kailey Schuyler, Columbia Acad. – Lipscomb

VOLLEYBALL

Elizabeth Bossong, Siegel – Tennessee Tech

Sophia Cerino, Ravenwood – Western Kentucky

Lauren Dorrell, Father Ryan – Colorado

Gracie Larkin, Father Ryan – Trevecca

Kaela Massey, Brentwood – East Tenn. State

Asha Phillips, Siegel – Tennessee

Anna Wilson, Brentwood – Sewanee

Defense the difference for unbeaten Independence

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Independence defensive coordinator Lance White.

Independence defensive coordinator Lance White.

Independence junior linebacker Hunter Dupree

Independence junior linebacker Hunter Dupree

Independence's Hunter Dupree (right) wraps up Brentwood quarterback Carson Croy.

Independence’s Hunter Dupree (right) wraps up Brentwood quarterback Carson Croy.

Top-ranked Independence has a school-record 12 wins this season while remaining undefeated and averaging  42.3 points per game with a Class 5A championship berth well within its sights.

However, the biggest difference in this year’s 12-0 squad and last season’s 6-5 team could be on the other side of the ball.

While the offense has stolen most of the headlines, it’s the defense that has been the most consistent, having yet to allow more than 17 points in a game and holding opponents to a 10.1 average, much better than its 23.9 points per game in 2014.

Last season Independence allowed 40 or more points three times, including 49 to Hendersonville in the first round of the 6A playoffs. Just a week ago the Eagles limited the Commandos to seven points in a 38-7 second-round win. Independence will play defending 5A runner-up Hillsboro in the quarterfinals Friday.

“When things don’t work well on the offense, the defense seems to pick it up,” third-year Eagles head coach Scott Blade said.

Offensive firepower is nothing new for an Eagles team that averaged 35.8 points last season, but the defense has made a point to make opposing teams pay attention to its play as well.

Independence senior defensive back Kylan Stribling.

Independence senior defensive back Kylan Stribling.

“It’s always been the offense in the headlines, but we kind of have some defensive pride this year,” senior defensive back and MTSU commitment Kylan Stribling said. “We said, ‘Let’s have the headlines say, ‘Independence defense shuts out or wins the game.’’”

Stribling has 60 tackles and an interception and shares an attitude that is consistent across the board with Independence’s defensive players.

“We want to be that defense in Tennessee where people say, ‘hey, those are the guys we’ve got to watch,’” said Independence senior defensive end and linebacker Chris Beavers, who has a team-leading 13 sacks to add to his 65 tackles and three caused fumbles.

Team effort

A large contributor to the Eagles’ drastic improvement on defense is an improved commitment to a team effort over individual play.

“The really good thing about this group is there’s not any individuals,” defensive coordinator Lance White said. “They’re all playing for each other and that’s what makes them a good, solid defense.”

“There’s more of a team sense,” Stribling added. “In the past years we’ve had great defensive players, but this year we are pretty much playing for each other. For the four years I’ve been here, this is the tightest group I’ve been a part of.”

That closeness began before the season even started.

Independence senior defensive end Chris Beavers.

Independence senior defensive end Chris Beavers.

“It started in the offseason,” Beavers said. “We grinded really hard and there was just a different atmosphere. You could feel it.”

Now the Eagles aren’t afraid of losing, but they don’t want to disappoint their teammates.

“Instead of being afraid of the other team, we’re more afraid of letting each other down,” said Independence junior linebacker Hunter Dupree, who leads the team with 85 tackles and four interceptions. “If we don’t do our assignment, it could be six points.”

And Dupree said that fear of letting each other down has led to a concrete trust in one another to perform their assignments.

“You’ve got to have trust that they’re going to get their job done,” he said. “If you get your job done, there’s nothing you have to worry about.”

Special operations

Independence coaches and players both credit one specific offseason experience for helping the Eagles find their new sense of commitment and brotherhood.

In June, members of the Navy SEALs came to Thompson’s Station to work out with the Eagles and teach them some team-building exercises.

“With the Navy SEALs coming in it really reinforced this was a team effort,” Stribling said. “We took so much away from it. They gave us important life lessons and team lessons.”

Independence footballers get workout with Navy SEALs

Lessons that the Eagles can apply to more than football.

“It wasn’t so much football-based, but it had a lot to do with sacrificing for your team and pushing yourself beyond what you think your limits are,” Blade said.

“I think that was a big day for all of them learning what it takes to play for the guy next to you,” White added. “For each one of them, understanding that there is something out here greater than themselves.”

Picking up the slack

The defense had to take playing for the guy next to them to another level when standout senior quarterback Andrew Bunch went down in Week 2 against Centennial.

“For three years the offense got all the headlines,” Blade said. “We scored a lot of points for three years and the defense kind of got overshadowed. That was a great opportunity for them to say, ‘Hey, we can play, too.”’

The Eagles are averaging 47 points in games Bunch has played this season. When backup Adam Swayze took over to help Independence stay undefeated, the average dropped to a still-impressive 33.

TSSAA playoffs: Third-round breakdown

“That was a big challenge for our defense,” Stribling said. “We knew we might not be putting up as much points without Andrew, so we knew we had to carry them for the next four games.”

Independence’s defense made the most of the opportunity, coming up with 13 sacks and four interceptions while causing seven fumbles and recovering five to hold opposing teams to a combined 33 points in Bunch’s four-game absence.

“They knew we wouldn’t win these games unless they did that, and they did,” Blade said. “It made them grow up.”

Bunch is back now, and the Eagles have rolled thus far in the playoffs, outscoring opponents 87-14 in their first two games.

The Eagles head into the quarterfinals with a wealth of confidence on both sides of the ball, just like they have all season.

“This is new territory for us but we feel experienced,” Stribling said. “Like we’ve been here before.”

Reach Sam Brown at 615-259-8232 and on Twitter @SamBrownTN.

TSSCA all-state girls soccer teams revealed

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Interactive graphic 2015 THSSCA All-State Teams

The Tennessee High School Soccer Coaches Association (THSSCA) recently released its all-state squads, which included 42 Midstate standouts in each of the TSSAA’s four classifications.

TSCA recently released its 2015 all-state squads.

TSCA recently released its 2015 all-state squads.

Here’s a look at the 2015 THSSCA All-State Teams:

CLASS A/AA

Forwards: Makenzie Ellenburg (Greeneville), Emily Threatt (CAK), Addy Cronan (CAK), Hannah Brassham (Lexington), Amelia Grizell (Jackson Christian), Riley Engles (Signal Mountain), Madisson Davis (White House), Jessica Sallah (Greeneville), Olivia Hoffman (CCS).

Midfielders: Katelynn Hadjopoulos (Greeneville), Leah Hoffman (CCS), Megan Henry (Page), Kara Wegner (CPA), Audra Roach (White House Heritage), Olivia Ball (CPA), Rachel Clifft (Dyersburg), Brittney Johnson (Westview), Hannah Dearing (Notre Dame).

Defenders: Lauren King (Greeneville); Kate Dirkse (CCS); Halli Collins (Page).

Goalkeeper: McKenzie Krebs (Grace).

CLASS AAA

Forwards: Gabby Little (Houston), Kami McGee (Collierville), Sam DeBien (Cleveland), Anna Lanter (Soddy-Daisy), Kendall Powell (Cookeville), Casey Riemer (Bearden), Olivia Doak (Shelbyville), Megan Brinkley (Station Camp), Chloe Arnold (Tennessee), Karlie Paschall (Ravenwood), Olivia Winnett (Brentwood), Merideth Sleessman (Franklin), Julie Garst (Independence), Jasmine Sewell (Cane Ridge).

Midfielders: Paola Ellis (Houston), Gabby Powers (Hardin Valley), Caroline Hobbs (Maryville), Anna Brock Hawkins (Oakland), Mackenzie Wrather (Smyrna), Sydney Cason (Hendersonville), Salera Jordan (Clarksville), Anna Moore (Tennessee), Mackenzie Firek (Ravenwood).

Defenders: Taylor White (Houston), Katrina Ostrom (Houston), Emily Woods (Collierville), Lauren Turbill (Cookeville), Carolina Duncan (White Station), Katie Welsh (Oak Ridge), Grace Sommi (Farragut), Dominique Rowe (Hardin Valley), Kelsey Klett (Hardin Valley), Taylor Frizen (Bearden), Lizzy Fry (Maryville), Madison Louk (Siegel), Taylor Ryan (Siegel), Madison Hochstetler (Oakland), Claire Almaraz (Hendersonville), Shelby Oldham (Mt. Juliet), Carly Eakin (Bartlett), Erin Yonak (Arlington); Emily Montgomery (Munford), Jordan Chawan (Brentwood).

Goalkeepers: Kaylee Hammer (Houston), Emma Grace Goldman (Oakland), Melia Corea (Clarksville), Allie Guin (Beech), Ashton Shields (Arlington), Maggie Elpers (Dobyns-Bennett), Jessica Harvey (Franklin), Sam Colley (Independence).

DIVISION II-A

Forwards: Molly Martin (Evangelical Christian School); Addison Dunn (University School of Jackson), Sydney Brown (St. George’s), Kaitlyn Rabb (USN), Lexi Reeves (Knox Webb).

Midfielders: Maddy Stolnicki (Evangelical Christian School); Jordan Rickets (Evangelical Christian School); Chloe Tremblay (BGA); Wrenne French (BGA); Sydney Hunt (FRA).

Defenders: Catelyn Somogyi (Evangelical Christian School); Anna Jones (University School of Jackson); Karina Jensen (St. George’s), Olivia House (St. Marys).

Goalkeepers: Aracely Turcios (BGA).

DIVISION II-AA

Forwards: Keyle Synder (GPS), Brittany Hatmaker (Briarcrest), Tally Bishop (Father Ryan), Ophelia Pilkinton (Harpeth Hall), Cora Turner (St. Agnes), Emily Patton (Ensworth), Lainee Bohannon (Baylor).

Midfielders: Allyssa Neuberger (Briarcrest), Sydney Webber (Harpeth Hall), Amanda Lammey (St. Agnes), Cate Elcan (Ensworth), Catherine Myer (JPII), Kamryn Bloh (Baylor), Chloe Maize (Baylor).

Goalkeepers: Jenna Rolfe (Ensworth)

Reach Michael Murphy at 615-259-8262 and on Twitter @Murph_TNsports

Centennial player wins Mr. Football after other finalist's arrest

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Interactive graphic 2015 Mr. Football finalists
Centennial LB/RB Tyrel Dodson

Centennial LB/RB Tyrel Dodson

While the 2015 Tennessee Titans Mr. Football Award ceremony isn’t until Nov. 30, one of the 17 winners has already been decided.

Ooltewah linebacker Jeremiah Jackson, one of two finalists for the 2015 Class 5A Mr. Football Lineman of the Year award, was arrested Tuesday night and charged with one count of domestic assault, and the 6-foot-1, 230-pound senior has been removed from consideration for the award.

“Based on the reports that we received on the incident that occurred on Oct. 17 that involved Jeremiah Jackson, we determined that he would be removed as a finalist for the Tennessee Titans Mr. Football Award in the 5A Lineman of the Year category,” TSSAA Executive Director Bernard Childress said. “(Ooltewah) received that letter from us this morning.”

As a result, the other finalist for Class 5A Lineman of the Year — Centennial senior linebacker and Texas A&M commitment Tyrel Dodson — will receive the award on Nov. 30 at Nissan Stadium.

“This isn’t the way I wanted to win but it’s a blessing to be the be first Mr. Football in CHS history!” Dodson posted to Twitter on Thursday.

Mr. Football finalists announced

Dodson, a 2014 All-Midstate first-teamer, has 87 total tackles and a team-leading eight sacks for the Region 7-5A Cougars, who host Henry County in Friday’s Class 5A quarterfinals. The 6-foot-2, 235-pound Dodson has also rushed for 545 yards and 15 touchdowns this season.

Other Midstate athletes still in contention to win a Mr. Football award: Wayne County quarterback Preston Rice, Nashville Christian linebacker Daniel Bituli, Forrest lineman Boone Sweeney, CPA quarterback Zack Weatherly, Marshall County quarterback Ashton Posey, Independence wide receiver Nate Johnson, Oakland athlete JaCoby Stevens, BGA quarterback Clay Beathard, MBA running back Ty Chandler, Brentwood Acadmey lineman Bryce Mathews, Ravenwood kicker Crews Holt and Siegel kicker Jacob Smith.

Play-by-play voice of the Tennessee Titans Mike Keith will emcee the awards presentation.

Reach Michael Murphy at 615-259-8262 and on Twitter @Murph_TNsports

Lady Crusaders drop opener

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HENDERSONVILLE The Hendersonville Christian Academy girls prep basketball team can already see improvement happening on the court.

Hendersonville Christian Academy sophomore Lauren Batey releases a jump shot during second-quarter action. Batey finished with five points.

Hendersonville Christian Academy sophomore Lauren Batey releases a jump shot during second-quarter action. Batey finished with five points.

However, it didn’t help the Lady Crusaders win their season opener on Thursday evening as they suffered a 70-40 loss to visiting Nashville Christian in a Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association Hall of Champions contest.

“We put up 40 points against what I thought was a pretty darn good team,” HCA head coach Jack Keller said. “That was a real surprising part. We had some points put up by girls who are getting increased minutes that they didn’t have last year. It was good to see the ball spread around. We didn’t have a single player on the team that we had to look to get the majority of our points. We’ve had to deal with that in years past.”

Nine different Lady Crusaders contributed offensively, led by sophomore Desi Munson’s nine-point effort. Juniors Lindsie Mierop and April Wooley finished with six points each.

Sophomores Lauren Batey and Morgan Bell scored five points each, but both players fouled out in the fourth quarter as the Lady Crusaders’ foul trouble caught up with them late in the game. It allowed Nashville Christian (2-0) to take 39 free-throw attempts.

“I felt that my kids fought really hard,” Keller said. “We probably fought a little bit too hard on the fouling, and got ourselves not only in a little bit of foul trouble, but 26 of their points came from the free-throw line. That’s tough to overcome.”

The Lady Eagles ran out to a 17-5 lead after one quarter, but HCA pulled to within five points following Mierop’s second field goal of the second quarter as the Lady Crusaders were able to break Nashville Christian’s full-court pressure with more regularity.

“They pressed us pretty much the entire game, and quite frankly, I’m glad that they did,” Keller said. “It helped us. It helped us to get better. We had some great success with it at times, and at times, we struggled. I can’t fault what the kids gave. We just ran into a pretty darn good team.”

Hendersonville Christian Academy junior April Wooley shoots over Nashville Christian’s Emily Bartlett during fourth-quarter action. Wooley scored six points.

Hendersonville Christian Academy junior April Wooley shoots over Nashville Christian’s Emily Bartlett during fourth-quarter action. Wooley scored six points.

HCA was unable to stay within striking distance in the third quarter as the Lady Eagles began the second half on a 10-0 run to take a 41-21 lead with 4:24 left in the third quarter. Mia Curtis scored five consecutive points during the run, and she finished with 16 for the Lady Eagles.

Sonja Shelton scored a game-high 23 points for Nashville Christian. Ten of those came in the first quarter.

“I’m glad that we had this kind of game right out of the box,” Keller said. “I’m glad Nashville Christian attacked us so we could work through that kind of strategy. That’s what we see through most of the season, and sometimes those things are difficult to simulate in practice with a smaller team like we have.”

Senior Ali Turc scored four points for the Lady Crusaders, while Kendall Smith and junior Haley Thornton scored two points each. Senior Marian Silva finished with one point.

The Lady Crusaders will participate in a TSSAA Hall of Champions playday at Trousdale County on Saturday. Hendersonville Christian will face Trousdale County at 11 a.m. and Monterey at 2 p.m.

HCA will open the regular season at Battle Ground Academy on Dec. 1.

Reach Chris Brooks at cbrooks@tennessean.com or at 615-575-7118. Follow him on Twitter @CB_SumnerSports.

Hendersonville Christian Academy senior Ali Turc elevates for an interior shot between Nashville Christian’s Faith Martin (at left) and Mia Curtis during first-quarter action. Turc scored four points.

Hendersonville Christian Academy senior Ali Turc elevates for an interior shot between Nashville Christian’s Faith Martin (at left) and Mia Curtis during first-quarter action. Turc scored four points.

NASHVILLE CHRISTIAN (70) – Sonja Shelton 23, Mia Curtis 16, Brittan Jarrell 8, Makenna Paszek 7, Abbie Page 6, Morgan Forte 5, Faith Martin 4, Tollie Boone 1.

HENDERSONVILLE CHRISTIAN (40) – Desi Munson 9, Lindsie Mierop 6, April Wooley 6, Lauren Batey 5, Morgan Bell 5, Ali Turc 4, Kendall Smith 2, Haley Thornton 2, Marian Silva 1.

Half: 31-21, Nashville Christian. Three-point goals: Nashville Christian 1 (Page 1), Hendersonville Christian 1 (Batey 1). Records: Nashville Christian 2-0, Hendersonville Christian 0-1.

Poor shooting, turnovers doom Crusaders

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HENDERSONVILLE If possession is nine-tenths of the law, then the Hendersonville Christian Academy boys prep basketball team found itself on the wrong side of it on Thursday evening.

Hendersonville Christian Academy sophomore Peyton Shoulders passes during fourth-quarter action. Shoulders scored three points.

Hendersonville Christian Academy sophomore Peyton Shoulders passes during fourth-quarter action. Shoulders scored three points.

The Crusaders were hampered by 24 turnovers and a cold-shooting performance in a 58-28 loss to visiting Nashville Christian in a Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association Hall of Champions contest.

“That was our key to having any success tonight, limiting turnovers,” HCA head coach John Taylor said. “We didn’t do it. We did not handle (Nashville Christian’s) pressure. We turned the ball over, and that was our biggest mistake.”

The Crusaders shot 26.7 percent (12 of 45) from the field and fared far worse from three-point range, hitting just 10 percent of their attempts (2 of 20).

Having two senior starters out of the lineup didn’t help as Blake Smith (injured) and Emilio Quemada (ineligible until early next week) were both unavailable for HCA.

“Our two biggest scorers weren’t with us,” Taylor said. “It really showed and it hurt us. No excuse … these younger guys have got to step up and knock down some shots. We didn’t get very many good shots until the end of the game.”

The Crusaders also gave up far more free-throw opportunities as the Eagles (1-1) hit 21 of 28 foul shots.

“We fouled the heck out of them,” Taylor said. “We didn’t stick to our defensive game plan, and consequently, we ended up fouling a ton.”

Nashville Christian shot 39.1 percent from the field (18 of 46), and both teams struggled to get going offensively as the Eagles led 9-4 after the first quarter.

Hendersonville Christian Academy sophomore Jalen Cole releases a 3-pointer during first-quarter action. Cole scored four points.

Hendersonville Christian Academy sophomore Jalen Cole releases a 3-pointer during first-quarter action. Cole scored four points.

The Eagles led 23-13 at the half, but they were boosted by a third-quarter surge of 12 consecutive points – all by senior Zell Walker – to give Nashville Christian a 35-15 lead with 3:50 left in the period.

HCA fell further behind in the fourth quarter as the Crusaders were outscored by a 17-2 margin during one stretch. Nashville Christian attempted 12 free throws in the fourth quarter.

“I like our aggressiveness, but we’ve got to be smart with the effort,” Taylor said. “And we didn’t have that.”

Sophomore Devin Carlisle led the Crusaders with nine points and 13 rebounds, eight of those rebounds coming at the offensive end.

“He plays with a lot of effort,” Taylor said. “He has a lot of energy. He’s a strong kid. I’m proud of his effort, and he’s just a sophomore.”

Senior Joey Fragnoli scored eight points, followed by sophomore Jalen Cole (4), sophomore Peyton Shoulders (3), junior Dillon Andress (2) and junior Justin Antemann (2).

Clay Frazier provided 10 points for Nashville Christian.

Hendersonville Christian Academy junior Andre Hambrick releases a layin during first-quarter action.

Hendersonville Christian Academy junior Andre Hambrick releases a layin during first-quarter action.

The Crusaders will participate in a TSSAA Hall of Champions playday at Trousdale County on Saturday. HCA will face Trousdale County at 12:30 p.m. and Monterey at 3:30 p.m.

HCA will open the regular season at Montgomery Bell Academy on Tuesday.

Reach Chris Brooks at cbrooks@tennessean.com or at 615-575-7118. Follow him on Twitter @CB_SumnerSports.

NASHVILLE CHRISTIAN (58) – Zell Walker 22, Clay Frazier 10, Jacob Ogle 8, Chandler White 5, Ronnie Forte 4, Miles Smith 4, Austin Bishop 3, Brian Hedden 2.

HENDERSONVILLE CHRISTIAN (28) – Devin Carlisle 9, Joey Fragnoli 8, Jalen Cole 4, Peyton Shoulders 3, Dillon Andress 2, Justin Antemann 2.

Half: 23-13, Nashville Christian. Three-point goals: Nashville Christian 1 (Walker 1), Hendersonville Christian 2 (Cole 1, Shoulders 1). Records: Nashville Christian 1-1, Hendersonville Christian 0-1.


Five soccer standouts earn all-state honors

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Five Sumner County players have been named to the Tennessee High School Soccer Coaches Association (THSSCA) Girls All-State Teams.

White House High sophomore forward Madisson Davis scored 42 goals and provided 17 assists this fall.

White House High sophomore forward Madisson Davis scored 42 goals and provided 17 assists this fall.

Hendersonville had two players selected in Class AAA, junior midfielder Sydney Cason and junior defender Claire Almaraz.

That duo helped the Lady Commandos to a 15-5-3 record, winning the District 9-AAA regular-season championship and the 9-AAA Tournament as well. Hendersonville finished as the Region 5-AAA Tournament runner-up.

The Lady Commandos advanced to the program’s first state tournament since 2006 with a 3-1 win at Independence in a Class AAA sectional match. Hendersonville’s postseason run ended with a 5-0 loss to unbeaten Houston – the eventual state champion – in its state opener.

Sydney Cason

Sydney Cason

Cason transferred to Hendersonville from Michigan and played the team’s last 14 matches, scoring 14 goals and providing 10 assists. She was named the District 9-AAA Most Valuable Player and was a 9-AAA All-Tournament selection as well.

Almaraz helped the Lady Commandos to five shutouts, and she was selected as the 9-AAA Co-Defensive Most Valuable Player.

Beech senior Allie Guinn is also among the AAA honorees. Guinn played in the midfield as a junior but moved to goalkeeper for her senior season, and she was selected as the District 9-AAA Goalkeeper of the Year after helping the team to nine shutouts. Guinn also scored nine goals.

Claire Almaraz

Claire Almaraz

Guinn – who was also a 9-AAA All-Tournament honoree and the team’s most valuable player – led the Lady Buccaneers to a 13-5 record and a second-place finish during the regular season in 9-AAA play. Beech suffered a 3-0 loss to No. 3 seed Station Camp in the 9-AAA Tournament semifinal round.

Allie Guinn

Allie Guinn

Sophomore forward Madisson Davis is on the Class A-AA All-State squad. Davis helped White House to its fourth consecutive sectional appearance, suffering a 4-3 loss to visiting Page in a penalty-kick shootout.

The Lady Devils had a 15-4-3 record, won the District 9 A-AA North Division championship in the regular season, captured the 9 A-AA Tournament championship and claimed Region 5 A-AA Tournament title.

Davis scored a school-record 42 goals and provided 17 assists. She was selected as the 9 A-AA North Division Offensive Player of the Year and was a District 9 A-AA All-Tournament selection and also a Region 5 A-AA All-Tournament selection.

Madisson Davis

Madisson Davis

Pope John Paul II High senior Catherine Meyer is on the Division II-Class AA list.

Meyer – a central midfielder – scored 16 goals and provided five assists.

She was involved in 21 of the 24 goals that the Lady Knights scored this season, creating 5.8 chances on goal per match.

Catherine Meyer

Catherine Meyer

PJP II suffered a 2-1 loss at Father Ryan in the first round of the Division II-Class AA State Tournament, ending its season with a 3-8-3 record.

THSSCA All-State Teams

Class AAA

Forward

Player Grade School

Gabby Little 12 Houston

Kami McGee 10 Collierville

Sam DeBien 12 Cleveland

Anna Lanter 11 Soddy-Daisy

Kendall Powell 11 Cookeville

Casey Riemer 12 Bearden

Olivia Doak 12 Shelbyville

Megan Brinkley 11 Station Camp

Chloe Arnold 11 Tennessee High

Karlie Paschall 11 Ravenwood

Olivia Winnett 12 Brentwood

Merideth Sleessman 12 Franklin

Julie Garst 11 Independence

Jasmine Sewell 12 Cane Ridge

Midfielders

Paola Ellis 11 Houston

Gabby Powers 12 Hardin Valley

Caroline Hobbs 12 Maryville

Anna Brock Hawkins 12 Oakland

Mackenzie Wrather 12 Smyrna

Sydney Cason 11 Hendersonville

Salera Jordan 12 Clarksville

Anna Moore 12 Tennessee High

Mackenzie Firek 12 Ravenwood

Defenders

Taylor White 12 Houston

Katrina Ostrom 11 Houston

Emily Woods 12 Collierville

Lauren Turbill 11 Cookeville

Caroline Duncan 10 White Station

Katie Welsh 12 Oak Ridge

Grace Sommi 11 Farragut

Dominique Rowe 12 Hardin Valley

Kelsey Klett 12 Hardin Valley

Taylor Frizen 11 Bearden

Lizzy Fry 12 Maryville

Madison Louk 12 Siegel

Taylor Ryan 12 Siegel

Madison Hochstetler 12 Oakland

Claire Almaraz 11 Hendersonville

Shelby Oldham 11 Mt Juliet

Carly Eakin 12 Bartlett

Erin Yonak 11 Arlington

Emily Montgomery 12 Mumford

Jordan Chawan 12 Brentwood

Goalkeepers

Kaylee Hammer 11 Houston

Emma Grace Goldman 12 Oakland

Melia Corea 12 Clarksville

Allie Guin 12 Beech

Ashton Shields 10 Arlington

Maggie Elpers 12 Dobyns-Bennett

Jessica Harvey 12 Franklin

Sam Colley 12 Independence

Class A-AA

Forwards

Makenzie Ellenburg 11 Greeneville

Emily Threatt 12 Christian Academy of Knoxville

Addy Cronan 12 Christian Academy of Knoxville

Hannah Brassham 10 Lexington

Amelia Grizell 12 Jackson Christian

Riley Engles 12 Signal Mountain

Madisson Davis 10 White House

Jessica Sallah 11 Greeneville

Olivia Hoffman 10 Chattanooga Christian

Midfielders

Katelynn Hadjopoulos 12 Greeneville

Leah Hoffman 12 Chattanooga Christian

Megan Henry 10 Page

Kara Wegner 12 Christ Presbyterian Academy

Audra Roach 12 White House Heritage

Olivia Ball 11 Christ Presbyterian Academy

Rachel Clifft 12 Dyersburg

Brittney Johnson 12 Westview

Hannah Dearing 12 Notre Dame

Defenders

Lauren King 12 Greeneville

Kate Dirkse 9 Chattanooga Christian

Halli Collins 11 Page

Goalkeeper

McKenzie Krebs 12 Knoxville Grace

Division II-Class A

Forwards

Molly Martin 11 Evangelical Christian School

Addison Dunn 12 University School of Jackson

Sydney Brown 11 St. George’s

Kaitlyn Rabb 12 University School of Nashville

Lexi Reeves 11 Knox Webb

Midfielders

Maddy Stolnicki 10 Evangelical Christian School

Jordan Rickets 11 Evangelical Christian School

Chloe Tremblay 11 Battle Ground Academy

Wrenne French 11 Battle Ground Academy

Sydney Hunt 12 Franklin Road Academy

Defenders

Catelyn Somogyi 9 Evangelical Christian School

Anna Jones 11 University School of Jackson

Karina Jensen 12 St. George’s

Olivia House 10 St. Mary’s

Goalkeepers

Aracely Turcios 12 Battle Ground Academy

Division II-Class AA

Forwards

Keyle Synder 12 Girls Preparatory School

Brittany Hatmaker 12 Briarcrest Christian

Tally Bishop 11 Father Ryan

Ophelia Pilkinton 9 Harpeth Hall

Cora Turner 12 St. Andrews Sewanee

Emily Patton 12 Ensworth

Lainee Bohannon 10 Baylor

Midfielders

Allyssa Neuberger 12 Briarcrest Christian

Sydney Webber 12 Harpeth Hall

Amanda Lammey 12 St. Andrews Sewanee

Cate Elkin 12 Ensworth

Catherine Myer 12 Pope John Paul II

Kamryn Bloh 11 Baylor

Chloe Maize 12 Baylor

Goalkeepers

Jenna Rolfe 11 Ensworth

Live: Tennessee high school football playoff quarterfinals

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Live coverage of the Tennessee high school football quarterfinals.

Smyrna's Ikenna Okeke (2) runs the ball as Oakland's Wanya Moton (3) brings Okeke down during the game at Smyrna, on Friday Oct. 30, 2015.

Smyrna’s Ikenna Okeke (2) runs the ball as Oakland’s Wanya Moton (3) brings Okeke down during the game at Smyrna, on Friday Oct. 30, 2015.

Live Blog Live: Tennessee high school football playoff quarterfinals
 

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Tennessee high school football playoff brackets

Prep Round-Up: Portland squads fall to Rossview

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Basketball

Basketball

PORTLAND The Portland High School boys basketball team suffered a 47-32 loss to visiting Rossview in a Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association (TSSAA) Hall of Champions game played on Friday evening.

The Panthers (1-1) didn’t score more than nine points in any quarter, trailing 22-14 at halftime and 30-23 entering the fourth quarter.

Portland senior forward Caelum Utley scored 15 points, followed by Jay Crutchfield (9 points), Dawson Simmons (6) and Luke Jones (2).

Hawk sophomore Austin Jackson poured in a game-high 25 points, making seven 3-pointers.

Rossview’s boys improved to 2-0, and the Lady Hawks did the same with a 63-46 victory over the Lady Panthers.

The Lady Hawks outscored the host squad in each of the first three quarters, leading 39-25 at halftime and 57-28 entering the fourth quarter.

Senior guard Cristina Herrera led Portland (1-1) offensively with 12 points, followed by Al Chatmon (9 points), Rachel Jennings (8), Erica Keen (5), Mackenzie Trouten (4), Emily Brown (3), Taylor Cole (3) and McKenzie Fletcher (2).

Senior forward Mickey Head led Rossview offensively with 16 points, and sophomore forward Grace Dickinson provided 11 points.

The Panther squads open the regular season with games at Westmoreland on Tuesday evening.

Blue Devil squads fall

NASHVILLE The White House High School boys basketball team was outscored 22-10 in the fourth quarter, suffering a 55-49 loss at Maplewood in a Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association (TSSAA) Hall of Champions game played on Thursday evening.

The Blue Devils led 21-20 at halftime and 39-33 entering the fourth quarter.

Junior Malik Morgan and senior Luke Hopkins led White House (1-2) with 12 and 11 points, respectively, followed by Bradley Cole (8 points), Gavin Herrell (6), Jared Ward (5), Logan Trimmer (4) and Cole Pond (3).

Junior guard Craig Blackshear led the Panthers (2-0) offensively with a game-high 17 points, and freshman teammate Bobo Hodges scored 10 points.

>> The Lady Devils opened their season with a 62-28 loss to Maplewood.

White House trailed 23-6 after one period of play, 31-13 at halftime and 52-24 entering the fourth quarter.

Sophomore guard Mackenzie Vaughn led the Lady Devils offensively with 11 points, followed by Bryanna Allen (3), Lauren Felts (3), Alyssa Armstrong (2), Hailee Ellis (2), Lexa Grubbs (2), Stephanie Palmer (2), Allyson Trimmer (2) and Bailey Hutchison (1).

Dashia Harris and Destiny Hayes led the Lady Panthers with 15 and 14 points, respectively.

The White House squads open the regular season by hosting East Robertson and Gallatin on Monday and Tuesday, respectively.

Bucs roll past Stewarts Creek

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Beech High sophomore A.J. Robertson releases a 3-point shot over the outstretched arm of Stewarts Creek junior Tyler Conley. Robertson scored a game-high 23 points in the Buccaneers’ 70-50 victory.

Beech High sophomore A.J. Robertson releases a 3-point shot over the outstretched arm of Stewarts Creek junior Tyler Conley. Robertson scored a game-high 23 points in the Buccaneers’ 70-50 victory.

Beech High senior Noah Chatman leans into a shot after drawing a foul from Stewarts Creek senior T.J. York during first-quarter action. Chatman scored 20 points.

Beech High senior Noah Chatman leans into a shot after drawing a foul from Stewarts Creek senior T.J. York during first-quarter action. Chatman scored 20 points.

Beech High sophomore Nelson Smith shoots a jumper after drawing contact from Stewarts Creek senior T.J. York during third-quarter action. Smith scored five points.

Beech High sophomore Nelson Smith shoots a jumper after drawing contact from Stewarts Creek senior T.J. York during third-quarter action. Smith scored five points.

HENDERSONVILLE The Beech High boys basketball team wanted to make a good first impression for its home fans on Friday evening.

It didn’t take them long to do that as the Buccaneers scored the first 10 points en route to a 70-50 victory over visiting Stewarts Creek.

Sophomore guard A.J. Robertson poured in 23 points, including all five of the Buccaneers’ 3-pointers.

“He’s got to do that for us,” Beech head coach Darrin Joines said. “I feel like people try to take our post play away because we’re big, and he’s got to take those open shots for sure.”

Senior forward Noah Chatman did most of the damage inside, finishing with 20 points and 17 rebounds.

The Buccaneers (2-0) led 18-3 after the first quarter, with Chatman scoring 10 points in the opening period.

“We like to come out with energy from the tip and go from there,” Robertson said. “When you’ve got the first home game and a big crowd, you definitely like to get after it with lots of energy.”

However, it could have been a bigger first-half lead. Beech missed 10 of 17 free-throw attempts over the first two quarters.

“We missed (10) free throws in the first half, and we’re a pretty good-shooting free-throw team,” Joines said.

Robertson hit buzzer-beating 3-pointers at the end of each of the first two quarters, with the second one giving the Buccaneers a 27-15 lead at halftime.

“That’s kind of what we needed,” Joines said. “We were getting pretty good looks, and we’d kick it out and miss a shot.”

Robertson added, “Mostly, they played man-to-man (defense), so it was our job to move the ball and get open. I’m thankful for my teammates kicking the ball out to me.”

Stewarts Creek (0-1) pulled to within nine points (42-33) early in the fourth quarter with an 8-0 run, but the Buccaneers ended any notion of a comeback by scoring 11 of the next 16 points.

“It’s funny … sometimes you get up like that and a team gets scalded a little bit, and they come back,” Joines said. “(Stewarts Creek) played hard, and their (full-court) press bothered us. But I thought once we started attacking it, it was fine.”

T.J. York led the Red Hawks with 12 points, while Vince Floyd finished with 10 for Stewarts Creek.

Senior forward Caleb Walton also finished in double figures for the Buccaneers, scoring 10 points.

Beech will play a number of home games prior to two holiday tournaments, including their own event during the final week of December.

“We’ve got one more road game in the next eight or nine,” Joines said. “That’s good for this team, because we’re young.”

The Buccaneers will open the regular season by hosting West Creek on Tuesday evening.

Reach Chris Brooks at cbrooks@tennessean.com or at 615-575-7118. Follow him on Twitter @CB_SumnerSports.

STEWARTS CREEK (50) – T.J. York 12, Vince Floyd 10, Javontay Rollings 9, Tyler Conley 7, Desmond Sales 5, Daniel Freeman 3, Braydon Jackson 2, Jordan Rouse 2.

BEECH (70) – A.J. Robertson 23, Noah Chatman 20, Caleb Walton 10, Nelson Smith 5, Ben Buhrow 4, Joel Littlepage 3, Heath Pentecost 2, Drake Sanson 2, Ty Dean 1.

Half: 27-15, Beech. Three-point goals: Stewarts Creek 7 (Floyd 3, York 2, Rollings 1, Sales 1), Beech 5 (Robertson 5). Records: Stewarts Creek 0-1, Beech 2-0.

Lady Bucs struggle in home opener

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The Beech High girls basketball team didn’t get the start it wanted on Friday evening, but visiting Stewarts Creek had something to do with that.

The Lady Buccaneers fell behind by a 13-0 margin over the first 3:09 of the contest and never recovered, suffering a 59-27 loss to the Lady Red Hawks in a Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association Hall of Champions game.

“(Stewarts Creek is) an experienced team, and a talented team, especially from the guard position,” Beech interim head coach Troy Carnes said. “They did some really good things, and they were really aggressive with the (full-court) press.”

Beech High senior Deja Smith attempts a shot under pressure from Stewarts Creek senior Jasmine Smith.

Beech High senior Deja Smith attempts a shot under pressure from Stewarts Creek senior Jasmine Smith.

Lady Buccaneer senior guard Deja Smith returned to the lineup after missing Tuesday’s opener at Clarksville following the removal of an ingrown toenail. Smith, along with sophomore Gracie Hines and freshman Kennedy Powell, led Beech (0-2) offensively with six points each.

“Deja’s hobbling a little bit from some work she’s had done on her toes,” Carnes said. “She’s not quite able to do what she’s normally able to do. She battled through it. She’s tough, and she’s a leader. I know she was hurting worse than she would tell me.”

The Lady Red Hawks (2-0) pressured Beech from the opening tip, creating problems for the Lady Buccaneer offense.

“We didn’t handle the pressure well,” Carnes said. “We’re young and inexperienced.”

Beech High junior McCall Decker attempts a jump shot during third-quarter action. Decker scored five points.

Beech High junior McCall Decker attempts a jump shot during third-quarter action. Decker scored five points.

Stewarts Creek led 22-7 after the opening quarter and went on a 17-0 run to begin the second quarter, building a 35-7 lead.

It was more of the same in the third quarter as the Lady Buccaneers managed just four points – on baskets from Hines and Powell – as the Lady Red Hawks stormed to a 49-17 lead after three quarters.

The two teams played the fourth quarter evenly as both squads utilized reserves for most of the final period.

“We handled the second half better,” Carnes said. “We came out in man-to-man (defense), which is what we probably should have been in from the start, because we did not anticipate (Stewarts Creek) being able to shoot it as well as they did.”

The Lady Bucs hit only two of seven free-throw attempts.

Beech High sophomore Reese Taylor takes a jump shot in the lane during first-quarter action.

Beech High sophomore Reese Taylor takes a jump shot in the lane during first-quarter action.

“I thought we made some progress through the game, and some players did some really good things,” Carnes said. “But we’re still extremely young.”

Stewarts Creek junior Brandi Ferby led four players in double figures, scoring 14 points. Junior Brianah Ferby and sophomore Jamya Rogers scored 12 points each, and senior Ryann Carpenter finished with 10.

The Lady Buccaneers open the regular season by hosting West Creek on Tuesday evening.

Reach Chris Brooks at cbrooks@tennessean.com or at 615-575-7118. Follow him on Twitter @CB_SumnerSports.

STEWARTS CREEK (59) – Brandi Ferby 14, Brianah Ferby 12, Jamya Rogers 12, Ryann Carpenter 10, Taylor Vaughn 4, Jasmine Smith 3, Kyra Wilder 3, Jannette Esquivel 1.

BEECH (27) – Gracie Hines 6, Kennedy Powell 6, Deja Smith 6, McCall Decker 5, Joslyn Brinkley 4.

Half: 36-13, Stewarts Creek. Three-point goals: Stewarts Creek 5 (Brandi Ferby 2, Brianah Ferby 2, Wilder 1), Beech 1 (Decker 1). Records: Stewarts Creek 2-0, Beech 0-2.

The Tennessean Midstate Top 10

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A look at the top high school football teams in Middle Tennessee, as ranked by The Tennessean:

Interactive graphic The Tennessean Midstate Top 10
CPA takes the field prior to its quarterfinal win over White House Heritage.

CPA takes the field prior to its quarterfinal win over White House Heritage.

Pearl-Cohn's Jimmyrious Parker (left).

Pearl-Cohn’s Jimmyrious Parker (left).

10. Pearl-Cohn (9-4) — Ke’Juan Vaughn and Jay Parker combined to rush for 210 yards and four touchdowns for the Firebirds, who scored three unanswered second-half TDs en route to a 33-3 quarterfinal win over Springfield. Last week: NR. This week: Friday vs. Memphis East (12-1). 

Hillsboro head coach Craig Clayton.

Hillsboro head coach Craig Clayton.

9. Hillsboro (9-4) — The Burros gave unbeaten Independence its best game of the season but were unable to overcome an early two-score deficit, ultimately suffering a 28-20 season-ending defeat. Last week: No. 9. 

CPA takes the field prior to its quarterfinal win over White House Heritage.

CPA takes the field prior to its quarterfinal win over White House Heritage.

8. CPA (12-1)  The defending Class 3A champion Lions kept rolling along Friday, coasting to a 55-21 quarterfinal triumph over White House Heritage to set up a semifinal matchup with unbeaten Liberty. Last week: No. 8. This week: Friday vs. Liberty (13-0).

Centennial's Peyton Pisacane (22) and Greg Drewery bring down Independence's Andrew Bunch during the Cougars' Week 2 loss.

Centennial’s Peyton Pisacane (22) and Greg Drewery bring down Independence’s Andrew Bunch during the Cougars’ Week 2 loss.

7. Centennial (12-1) — There was no fourth-quarter letdown against Henry County this time around as the Cougars captured their second shutout win of the season thanks to a pair of pick-6s from senior defensive back Peyton Pisacane. Last week: No. 7. This week: Friday at Independence (13-0). 

Blackman quarterback Miller Armstrong (12) comforts teammate Blake Taylor after Friday's loss at Maryville.

Blackman quarterback Miller Armstrong (12) comforts teammate Blake Taylor after Friday’s loss at Maryville.

6. Blackman (10-3) — Despite managing 238 yards against unbeaten East Tennessee powerhouse Maryville, a trio of interceptions, coupled with Rebel quarterback Dylan Hokins’ 248-yard, fourth-touchdown performance, doomed the Blaze’s chances, resulting in a 45-7 season-ending defeat. Last week: No. 5. 

Ravenwood quarterback Andrew Rappe (16).

Ravenwood quarterback Andrew Rappe (16).

5. Ravenwood (12-1) — The Raptors put together arguably their most impressive performance of the season in Friday’s quarterfinal matchup with White Station, rolling to a 55-35 win thanks to quarterback Andrew Rappe’s 328-yard, four-touchdown effort. Last week: No. 6. This week: Friday vs. Whitehaven (12-1). 

Independence players take the field prior to their Week 2 matchup with Centennial.

Independence players take the field prior to their Week 2 matchup with Centennial.

4. Independence (13-0) — Quarterback Andrew Bunch accounted for three of his team’s four touchdowns in Friday’s 28-20 triumph over Hillsboro, which proved to be the unbeaten Eagles’ first single-digit victory this season. Last week: No. 4. This week: Friday vs. Centennial (12-1).

Oakland players celebrate after their overtime win over Smyrna.

Oakland players celebrate after their overtime win over Smyrna.

3. Oakland (12-1) — The Patriots had a tougher time with Smyrna the second time around, but ultimately escaped with a 21-14 quarterfinal victory thanks to Kendrick Johnson’s 3-yard game-winning touchdown run in overtime. Last week: No. 2. This week: Friday at Maryville (13-0).

MBA running back Ty Chandler

MBA running back Ty Chandler

2. MBA (11-1) — Junior Mr. Football finalist Ty Chandler has rushed for 539 yards and eight touchdowns this postseason, including Friday’s 305-yard, four-TD effort in the Big Red’s 35-14 semifinal win at Christian Brothers. Last week: No. 3. This week: Bye.

Brentwood Academy's Max Mullen dives for the goal line during the Eagles' regular-season win over Ensworth.

Brentwood Academy’s Max Mullen dives for the goal line during the Eagles’ regular-season win over Ensworth.

1. Brentwood Academy (11-1) — Jeremiah Oatsvall ran for 205 yards and threw for 113 more in Friday’s DII-AA semifinal win over Baylor, and the dual-threat junior quarterback accounted for all three Eagles touchdowns in the 24-7 triumph. Last week: No. 1. This week: Bye. 

Reach Michael Murphy at 615-259-8262 and on Twitter @Murph_TNsports


Prep football notebook: East-West All-Stars rosters set

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Rosters have been announced for the ninth annual Toyota East vs. West Tennessee All-Star Classic.

Rosters have been announced for the ninth annual Toyota East vs. West Tennessee All-Star Classic.

Rosters have been announced for the ninth annual Toyota East vs. West Tennessee All-Star Classic, which is set for Dec. 11 at Tennessee Tech’s Tucker Stadium.

“The state of Tennessee is beginning to show itself as a major player when it comes to the recruiting of high school football talent and we’re very excited about the list of players who will be showcased at this game,” said Bill Marbet, Executive Director of the Tennessee Athletic Coaches Association. “Several players on this year’s rosters are destined for play in the Southeastern Conference, as well as other major programs across the program.”

Midstate players who will be suiting up for the West team include McGavock’s Kendall Johnson and Shedrick Kirk, Independence’s Andrew Bunch, CPA’s Zack Weatherly, Pearl-Cohn’s Rontavius Groves, Ravenwood’s Chris Rowland and Andrew Lutgens, Hillsboro’s Jay King and Malcolm Swann, Rossview’s Muncie Prater, Station Camp tight end Payton Anderton, Pope John Paul II’s Nicholas Nixon, Nashville Christian’s Daniel Bituli, Mareio McGraw and Robert Brantley, Centennial’s Tyrel Dodson, Nathan Wilkerson and Resean McLemore, Lipscomb’s Sam Jackson, Columbia Academy’s Thomas Garrison, Henry County’s Matthew Counce and Tanner Beasley, Cane Ridge’s Mario Dismuke, FRA’s Larry Wilhoite, Clarksville’s Rakavian Poydras and Father Ryan’s Jeremy Darvin.

The Tennessean Midstate Top 10

The coaching staff for the West team includes McGavock’s Jay Gore (head coach), Ravenwood’s Will Hester (offensive coordinator) and McGavock’s Dennis Moreno (defensive coordinator), while Nashville Christian’s Jeff Brothers, Henry County’s James Counce Jr., Rossview’s Ron Lambert, Dyersburg’s Bart Stowe and Memphis East’s Marcus Wimberly are assistant coaches.

Area players selected to compete for the East team include Blackman’s Taeler Dowdy and Matthew Leifheit, Riverdale’s Marquise Cantrell, La Vergne’s Chris Meyers and Lincoln County’s Xavier Schlueter, while Blackman head coach David Watson will serve as an assistant.

Expect plenty of points: When Columbia Academy travels to Greenback for a Class 1A semifinal game Friday, don’t expect a grind-it-out defensive game.

Columbia Academy (13-0) has scored 40 or more points in every game this season, including 110 combined over the past two playoff weeks. The Bulldogs roughed up South Pittsburg 56-28 in the state quarterfinals last Friday.

Greenback (11-2) has topped the 40-point mark six times this season. Ironically, the Cherokees also won 56-28 in the quarterfinals, topping Harriman to advance.

Long stretch of wins: Monday marked the three-year anniversary since CPA last lost a home football game.

The last time the Lions lost in their den was Nov. 23, 2012 in Ingle Martin’s first year as coach. After falling 16-8 to Milan in the 3A semifinals, CPA has gone 24-0 in home games since then.

The Lions are 41-2 overall during that streak.

Next time the charm?: Maryville battled the best Murfreesboro had to offer over recent years in the Class 6A playoffs, and the Rebels came out on top each time.

Oakland will try to snap that streak Friday in the semifinals at Maryville.

The Patriots (12-1) lost to the Rebels 26-14 in the semifinals last season after having knocked off rival Blackman the round before.

This season Maryville (13-0) has already disposed of Blackman (42-7) in the quarterfinals. The two-time defending state champs toppled Blackman 28-16 in the state semis.

Maryville, which is riding a 43-game winning streak, fended off Siegel 47-43 in the 2012 semifinals before suffering its only loss over the past 87 games, a 36-35 setback to Whitehaven in the state finals.

Like opponent: Memphis East and Pearl-Cohn, who will meet in the 4A semifinals Friday, have a common opponent this season — Alabama’s Muscle Shoals High.

Muscle Shoals defeated both Pearl-Cohn and East. The Firebirds (9-4) suffered a 49-20 loss during Week 6 on the road, while the Mustangs (12-1) lost to Muscle Shoals during the opening week (31-17), also on the road.

Muscle Shoals reached the second round of the 6A playoffs in Alabama before being upset by Minor High 23-16. It was the first loss of the season for Muscle Shoals (11-1), which had allowed just three points total in its previous four games.

Reach Michael Murphy at 615-259-8262 and on Twitter @Murph_TNsports

Interactive graphic The Tennessean Midstate Top 10

Weekend Round-Up: Lady Crusaders earn first TSSAA win

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HARTSVILLE The Hendersonville Christian Academy girls basketball team won its first game since becoming a Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association member last year, capturing a 47-33 victory over Monterey in a TSSAA Hall of Champions contest at Trousdale County High School on Saturday afternoon.

Three Lady Crusaders scored in double figures, led by senior Ali Turc’s 14-point, 10-rebound effort.

Hendersonville Christian Academy sophomore Lauren Batey dribbles into the lane during a game earlier this season. Batey scored 12 points in HCA’s 47-33 victory over Monterey on Saturday afternoon.

Hendersonville Christian Academy sophomore Lauren Batey dribbles into the lane during a game earlier this season. Batey scored 12 points in HCA’s 47-33 victory over Monterey on Saturday afternoon.

Sophomore Lauren Batey scored 12 points, and senior Marian Silva finished with 10 points.

Junior Lindsie Mierop scored five points and grabbed seven rebounds for HCA (1-2), while Desi Munson also finished with five points.

HCA led 10-8 after one quarter, 22-20 at halftime and 33-23 entering the final period.

Earlier in the day, the Lady Crusaders suffered a 41-33 loss to Trousdale County.

HCA trailed 10-3 after one quarter, 17-10 at halftime and 27-21 after three periods.

Turc made 5 of 6 attempts from three-point range, finishing with 19 points.

Mierop collected 10 rebounds and scored three points for HCA.

Batey hit two 3-pointers and finished with seven points, while Munson tossed in four points.

The Lady Crusaders open regular-season play at Battle Ground Academy on Tuesday.

>> The HCA boys suffered a pair of losses to host Trousdale County and Monterey on Saturday.

The Crusaders fell by a 58-50 margin to Trousdale County, despite 21 points from senior Emilio Quemada.

The score was tied at 11 after one quarter, and Trousdale County led 26-25 at halftime. The Yellow Jackets outscored HCA by a 16-7 margin in the third quarter.

Other Crusader scorers are as follows: sophomore Joseph Mussnug (12 points), sophomore Devin Carlisle (8), junior Justin Antemann (3), junior Dillon Andress (2), sophomore Peyton Shoulders (2), sophomore Jalen Cole (1) and junior Andre Hambrick (1).

Braison Rainey scored 20 points for Trousdale County, while Austin Ford provided 18.

The Crusaders dropped their second game to Monterey by a 57-50 margin.

Quemada scored a game-high 23 points and hit five of Hendersonville Christian’s nine 3-pointers.

Hambrick produced 15 points, followed by Antemann (3), Shoulders (3), Carlisle (2), Mussnug (2) and sophomore Tanner Sturgis (2).

Monterey led 19-15 after one quarter, 35-25 at the half and 42-38 entering the final quarter.

Dalton Coleman led Monterey with 21 points, while Tyrus West scored 15.

The Crusaders open regular-season play at Montgomery Bell Academy on Tuesday.

Bison win two

CARTHAGE The Station Camp High boys basketball team picked up victories over York Institute and Smith County on Saturday in TSSAA Hall of Champions games.

The Bison claimed a 68-42 win over York Institute at Smith County Middle School on Saturday afternoon, jumping out to a 21-9 lead after one quarter.

Station Camp extended its lead to 42-18 by halftime and 56-27 entering the final quarter.

Junior forward Kody Eden led the Bison with 17 points, while senior Keaton Dotson scored 14. Junior guard Thomas Zazzaro contributed 12 points.

Other Station Camp scorers included senior Sawyer Taylor (8 points), sophomore Matt Mathioweis (4), senior Hayden Baldwin (3), junior Chase Freeman (3), junior Reed Reynolds (3), junior Noah Cowart (2) and senior Yalen Reed (1).

Colton Blevins led York Institute with 11 points.

The Bison completed their two-game sweep with a 70-56 victory at Smith County.

Dotson scored 18 points, while Reed added 14 points. Eden chipped in 12. Freeman and Taylor scored nine points each, while Zazzaro and sophomore Jonathan Gillard finished with four points each.

The Bison led 21-9 after the first quarter, 39-32 at the half and 51-40 after three periods.

Dotson made four of Station Camp’s eight 3-pointers, with Taylor adding three and Freeman hitting one.

Camron Huff scored a game-high 20 points to lead the Owls.

>> The Lady Bison fell to 1-2 with Saturday’s 56-52 loss to York Institute and a 55-39 loss to Smith County.

The Station Camp squads are slated to travel to Rossview on Tuesday evening.

Knights remain unbeaten

HENDERSONVILLE The Pope John Paul II High boys basketball team improved its record to 3-0 after a 65-44 victory over visiting Middle Tennessee Christian School on Saturday afternoon.

The Knights led 20-12 after one quarter, 28-21 at the half and 42-25 entering the final period.

Senior forward Ryan Hatten led PJP II in scoring with 10 points, followed by junior Justin McMurry (9), sophomore Jayson Brown (8), junior Matthew Galvin (8), sophomore Grayson Lang (8), sophomore Devan Cambridge (7), junior Jalon Cambridge (5), freshman Avishai Lowery (4), senior Trent Griffin (3), and sophomore Mitchell Sorenson (3).

Junior Barr Ellenburg led the Cougars (0-2) with 12 points.

>> The Lady Knights dropped a pair of games to visiting MTCS and Oakland on Saturday afternoon.

The Lady Cougars handed PJP II a 65-44 loss in the first game of the day.

Senior forward Windee Johnson led the Lady Knights with 12 points, with Mercedes Smith adding 11. Callie Ryan finished with 10 points.

Other PJP II scorers include Sophie Kolbe (7), Emily Galluzzi (3) and Emily Robertson (1).

The Lady Knights trailed 22-11 after one quarter, 40-17 at halftime and 56-27 after three periods before holding a 17-9 edge in the final quarter.

Abby Buckner led MTCS with 21 points, while Ashlynd Wilkerson contributed 19.

PJP II suffered a 57-28 setback to Oakland in the final game of the afternoon.

Johnson and Ryan scored nine points each, followed by Kolbe (4), Galluzzi (3), Smith (2) and Robertson (1).

The Lady Knights (0-3) trailed 22-9 after one quarter, 33-15 at the half and 42-20 entering the final quarter.

Senior center Shelby Gibson – a University of Mississippi commitment – led the Lady Patriots with 15 points.

Both PJP II squads play at Christ Presbyterian Academy on Tuesday evening.

Lady Commandos survive seesaw battle

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LAFAYETTE It wasn’t until sophomore Brooke Long converted a steal into a three-point play that the Hendersonville High girls basketball team had any breathing room.

Hendersonville High senior Carleigh Short elevates for a layin over Macon County sophomore Keeley Clariday during second-quarter action. Short scored a game-high 18 points in the Lady Commandos' 48-42 victory.

Hendersonville High senior Carleigh Short elevates for a layin over Macon County sophomore Keeley Clariday during second-quarter action. Short scored a game-high 18 points in the Lady Commandos’ 48-42 victory.

That basket came in the final seconds of the Lady Commandos’ 48-42 victory over Macon County on Monday evening at Nera White Gymnasium.

Hendersonville (2-0) emerged victorious in a contest that featured 15 lead changes and three ties, and neither team led by more than four points until the final minute of the game.

“You like it, and at the same time, you don’t want it to be that close,” Hendersonville senior point guard Carleigh Short said. “It’s hard trading twos and threes sometimes. I, personally, would rather have a little bit of a lead and be comfortable, but we settled down and got back into a groove.”

Short – a Lipscomb University signee – finished with 18 points and made two free throws with 39.3 seconds to play, giving the Lady Commandos a 45-42 lead.

Long then forced a turnover and drew a foul as her layin dropped through the net, finishing off the three-point play with 23 seconds remaining.

Hendersonville shooters made 11 of their 15 attempts from the free-throw line. It was a lesson learned from the Lady Commandos’ opening game against Westmorland last Tuesday.

“We started our shootaround with free throws, because they can be important in a game like this,” Hendersonville head coach Drew Johnson said. “Luckily, we shot the ball a lot better from there tonight.”

On the other end, Macon County struggled from the foul line, shooting just 40 percent (6 of 15), and hitting only one of seven tries in the first half. However, the Tigerettes (1-2) kept the score close throughout, beginning with a pair of early 3-pointers from senior Lyndsey Belton.

Hendersonville High junior Makensie Cotter drives toward the basket between Macon County juniors Sarah Carter (left) and Kinsley Green during fourth-quarter action.

Hendersonville High junior Makensie Cotter drives toward the basket between Macon County juniors Sarah Carter (left) and Kinsley Green during fourth-quarter action.

“Luckily for me, I have some really smart girls,” Johnson said. “It took maybe two shots before it became pretty obvious that a lot of the offense that (Macon County) was running was going through (Belton), and she had the green light.”

Belton finished with 13 points to lead the Tigerettes, but she didn’t hit another three after the 4:46 mark of the first quarter.

“We tried to switch everything and make sure we got out and got a hand in her face,” Johnson said. “Every now and then, we’d have a lapse, but for the most part, we did a pretty good job tonight.”

Senior Joslyn Jarrett – who didn’t score in the first half – hit a 3-pointer from the left corner to beat the buzzer in the third quarter, giving the Lady Commandos a 34-32 lead. It ended a quarter where neither team made two unanswered baskets.

“When you come up here, you’re going to face a scrappy team,” Johnson said. “You’re going to face a team with shooters. I was kind of impressed with their post player (Kinsley Green) around the rim tonight. She was really good.

“It’s almost a typical Macon County team, but I think Coach (Larry) White is doing some different things. He’s a 38-year veteran. He knows what he’s doing. He runs a system, and they’re still learning it.”

The Lady Commandos lost their post player after junior Mackenzie Branch fouled out with 3:53 to play.

“She’s a stopper in the post a lot of times,” Johnson said of Branch. “With her being so big and having long arms, a lot of times she prevents easy buckets against us. She knows that some of those fouls that she got were fouls that we have to eliminate to keep her on the floor.”

Hendersonville High sophomore Brooke Long saves a ball inbounds during first-quarter action. Long scored 10 points in the Lady Commandos’ 48-42 victory at Macon County on Monday evening.

Hendersonville High sophomore Brooke Long saves a ball inbounds during first-quarter action. Long scored 10 points in the Lady Commandos’ 48-42 victory at Macon County on Monday evening.

Short said that having two games against teams with playing styles such as Macon County and Westmoreland is a different brand of basketball than teams in District 9-AAA typically play.

“They’re really scrappy,” Short said of Macon County. “I think in our county, we’re more used to trying to slowing it down and run some plays. It’s good to get up and down (the court). It’s a style we like, but at the same time, we’ve got to learn from it.”

Hendersonville will host Clarksville Northwest on Tuesday evening before taking the rest of the week off. The Lady Commandos will travel to Rossview on Tuesday.

Reach Chris Brooks at cbrooks@tennessean.com or at 615-575-7118. Follow him on Twitter @CB_SumnerSports.

HENDERSONVILLE (48) – Carleigh Short 18, Peyton Sheehan 12, Brooke Long 10, Joslyn Jarrett 8.

MACON COUNTY (42) – Lyndsey Belton 13, Jenna Russell 11, Kinsley Green 9, Sarah Carter 6, Kaylynn Dalton 3.

Half: 24-23, Macon County. Three-point goals: Hendersonville 5 (Jarrett 2, Long 1, Sheehan 1, Short 1), Macon County 4 (Belton 2, Dalton 1, Russell 1). Records: Hendersonville 2-0, Macon County 1-2.

Early struggles doom Commandos

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LAFAYETTE The Hendersonville High boys basketball team fell in a hole it couldn’t get out of on Monday evening.

Hendersonville High senior forward Preston Brown elevates for a layin under pressure from Macon County sophomore Heston King during first-quarter action. Brown finished with three points.

Hendersonville High senior forward Preston Brown elevates for a layin under pressure from Macon County sophomore Heston King during first-quarter action. Brown finished with three points.

The Commandos found themselves trailing by a 12-0 margin in the first quarter and never recovered in a 63-45 loss at Macon County in the two teams’ regular-season opener at Nera White Gymnasium.

Hendersonville (1-1) never led in the game, and the Commandos didn’t get on the scoreboard until junior center Jordan Amis hit a free throw with 1:08 remaining in the first quarter.

At that point, the damage had been done.

“(It was) just an extremely slow start,” Hendersonville head coach Kerry West said. “We shot so poorly in the first quarter, both from the field and from the free-throw line. We just mentally got off to a slow start and never got going.”

After the Commandos cut the lead to eight points on a pair of free throws from senior guard Austin Kirby, the Tigers (2-1) reeled off seven points over a 39-second span to build a 15-point advantage (24-9).

The Tigers hit their first four 3-point attempts in the first half, including one from freshman Trent Cook with 7.3 seconds left in the half to give Macon County a 33-15 lead.

“We didn’t come ready to start well, and Macon starts the game 4 for 4 from three,” West said. “The first quarter hurt us. I’m disappointed.

“We played them this summer and played them right down to the wire, but we didn’t show up and get it done tonight.”

Hendersonville High senior Bryan Scott releases a 3-pointer as Macon County senior Clay Carnahan challenges during second-quarter action.

Hendersonville High senior Bryan Scott releases a 3-pointer as Macon County senior Clay Carnahan challenges during second-quarter action.

The Tigers hit 20 of 28 free-throw attempts, while Hendersonville went 10 of 18 from the foul line.

“We’ve definitely got to do a better job about our fouls,” West said. “We’re putting other teams on the line way too much. They made 10 more (free throws) than we did and shot 18 more. We’re putting ourselves in a bad situation with foul trouble and extra free throws.”

Sophomore guard Dyilin Hoosier scored nine of his team-high 12 points in the fourth quarter, including two 3-pointers.

“I’m proud of our kids for their effort in the second half,” West said. “We had (the deficit) to 13 at one point and missed a three that would have cut it to 10. We just didn’t make plays.”

Hendersonville outscored the Tigers, 15-14, in the fourth quarter.

West was assessed a technical foul with 5:24 remaining in the game, but he still didn’t know why afterwards.

“They didn’t give me (a reason),” West said. “I think they heard somebody in the crowd. I’ve earned a technical before, but I didn’t get my money’s worth on that one.”

Hendersonville High junior Ryne Loper releases a 3-pointer during third-quarter action. Loper scored four points.

Hendersonville High junior Ryne Loper releases a 3-pointer during third-quarter action. Loper scored four points.

Junior Michael Ashburn and senior Trace McPherson led the Tigers with 12 points each. Ashburn hit three of Macon County’s five 3-pointers.

It reminded West of the Commandos’ win over Westmoreland last Tuesday.

“Both of them shot the ball so well,” West said. “Westmoreland hit eight threes against us, Macon starts 5 of 6 against us in the first quarter. It’s definitely getting us prepared to guard some shooters.

“I think that’s our first loss to Macon in the six years we’ve been playing them. We’ve had some good, close games here. It’s a disappointing loss, but it’s early.”

Reach Chris Brooks at cbrooks@tennessean.com or at 615-575-7118. Follow him on Twitter @CB_SumnerSports.

HENDERSONVILLE (45) – Dyilin Hoosier 12, Austin Kirby 7, Jason Hernando 6, Jordan Amis 5, Cooper Smith 5, Ryne Loper 4, Preston Brown 3, Alec Kirby 3.

MACON COUNTY (63) – Michael Ashburn 12, Trace McPherson 12, Clay Carnahan 8, Seth Carlisle 7, Riley Phillips 7, Matt Austin 5, Tyler Carlisle 4, Heston King 3, Cameron Welch 3, Clay West 2.

Half: 33-15, Macon County. Three-point goals: Hendersonville 5 (Hernando 2, Hoosier 1, Alec Kirby 1, Austin Kirby 1), Macon County 5 (Ashburn 3, T. Carlisle 1, Welch 1). Records: Hendersonville 1-1, Macon County 2-1.

Anderton, Nixon to play in all-star game

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Station Camp High senior Payton Anderton and Pope John Paul II High senior Nicholas Nixon have been selected to play in the Toyota East vs. West Tennessee All-Star Classic, which will be held at Cookeville’s Tennessee Tech University on Friday, Dec. 11.

Anderton – a 6-foot-3, 265-pound tight end and defensive lineman – was selected as a tight end.

Payton Anderton

Payton Anderton

Anderton caught two passes for 19 yards, and he made 62 tackles (35 solo) and recorded nine quarterback sacks. He was a 6-5A All-Region honoree.

Station Camp finished with a 4-6 record this season.

Nixon – a 6-foot-4, 250-pound two-way tackle – helped the Knights average 23 points per game. PJP II scored 30 points or more in three games, and they produced more than 20 points in five other contests.

Nicholas Nixon

Nicholas Nixon

The Knights averaged 318 yards per game, 175 rushing and 143 rushing.

Nixon is a four-year starter who was a Division II-Class AA All-East/Middle Region selection this fall.

Both were selected to the West squad, which will be coached by McGavock head coach Jay Gore.

The East squad will be coached by Elizabethton head coach Shawn Witten.

The all-stars were nominated by their high-school coaches and then selected by the coaching staffs for the game.

Players will report to Tennessee Tech on Tuesday, Dec. 8 and will practice through Thursday, with a walk-through for each team slated to take place on Friday.

Kickoff for the game is slated for 7 p.m.

The West squad won last year’s contest by a 28-16 score.

The West team has won five of the eight contests.

West roster

Classification Name Position Height Weight School Coach College commitment

6A Johnson, Kendall ATH 5-9 175 McGavock Jay Gore

6A Kirk, Shedrick ATH 6-2 190 McGavock Jay Gore

5A Bunch, Andrew QB 6-1 180 Independence Scott Blade

3A Weatherly, Zack QB 6-1 180 Christ Presbyterian Academy Ingle Martin UT-Chattanooga

4A Turner, DeVante RB 5-9 170 Memphis East Marcus Wimberly

1A Wilkes, Stavonski RB 5-9 180 Lake County Josh Puckett

2A Brown, Deshawn RB 5-8 190 Camden William Blow

4A Groves, Rontavius WR 6-0 170 Pearl-Cohn Tony Brunetti

6A Rowland, Chris WR 5-8 185 Ravenwood Will Hester

5A King, Jay WR 6-2 195 Hillsboro Craig Clayton

6A Gobbell, Cal WR 6-0 185 Hardin County Matthew Smith

5A Prater, Muncie WR 6-0 175 Rossview Ron Lambert

5A Anderton, Payton TE 6-3 265 Station Camp Shaun Hollinsworth

DII Nixon, Nicholas OT 6-4 250 PJP II Justin Geisinger

1A Brantley, Robert OT 6-4 285 Nashville Christian Jeff Brothers

5A Wilkinson, Nathan OT 6-3 290 Centennial Brian Rector

2A Smith, Benjie OG 6-3 290 Adamsville Brandon Gray

4A Jackson, Sam OG 6-3 280 Lipscomb Academy Scott Tillman

5A Timmons, Jonathan OG 6-5 320 Southwind Rahnmann Slocum

5A Counce, Matthew C/LS 6-0 235 Henry County James Counce, Jr.

4A Moore, Irana C/LS 6-0 210 Memphis East Marcus Wimberly

3A Gilmore, Bryce K/P 6-4 180 Dyersburg Bart Stowe

1A Garrison, Thomas K/P 5-11 175 Columbia Academy Charles Lansdell

1A McGraw, Mareio CB 6-1 185 Nashville Christian Jeff Brothers

6A Dismuke, Mario CB 6-1 195 Cane Ridge Eddie Woods

6A Lutgens, Andrew S 6-1 190 Ravenwood Will Hester

4A McGhee, Teddrick S 6-1 180 Memphis East Marcus Wimberly Idaho

1A Stevens, D’Carrius S 6-0 190 Union City Darren Bowling

DII Wilhoit, Larry S 6-0 185 Franklin Road Academy Bill Whittemore

4A Nance, Jeremiah S 5-11 185 Crockett County Kevin Ward

2A Goldsmith, Andrew LB 6-0 212 Trinity Christian Blake Butler

1A Bituli, Daniel LB 6-3 238 Nashville Christian Jeff Brothers Tennessee

5A Dodson, Tyrel LB 6-3 215 Centennial Brian Rector Texas A&M

5A Beasley, Tanner LB 5-11 190 Henry County James Counce, Jr.

3A Wilkes, Dantae LB 6-3 215 Liberty Tech Tyler Turner

1A Blackwell, Jaimeson LB 6-2 240 Union City Darren Bowling

1A Hutcherson, Sadarius DE 6-6 250 Huntingdon Eric Swenson

4A Tisdale, Tariqious DE 6-5 250 Lexington Bryant Hollingsworth Mississippi

5A McLemore, Resean DE 6-3 215 Centennial Brian Rector

2A Tucker, Chris DE 6-3 242 Trinity Christian Blake Butler

5A Swann, Malcom DT 6-2 280 Hillsboro Craig Clayton

6A Poydras, Rakavian DT 6-2 280 Clarksville Isaac Shelby MTSU

DII Darvin, Jeremy DT 6-3 288 Father Ryan Bruce Lussier Western Kentucky

4A Gooden, Emmit DT 6-4 285 Haywood Steve Hookfin

Head coach: Jay Gore (McGavock)

Coordinators: Offense – Will Hester (Ravenwood); Defense – Dennis Moreno (McGavock)

Assistant coaches: Jeff Brothers (Nashville Christian), James Counce, Jr. (Henry County), Ron Lambert (Rossview), Bart Stowe (Dyersburg), Marcus Wimberly (Memphis East)

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