CATOOSA — The Tahlequah boys basketball team met a top 4A team to kick off the Port City Classic.
The host Catoosa Indians remained undefeated in the tournament and continued their start with a 72-45 victory on Thursday, January 22nd.
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“We got a little complacent, too much isolation basketball. We missed a lot of shots around the rim in the first half; I would say we missed 12 to 15 shots around the rim the whole game,” THS head coach Matt Qualls said. “They have to get stronger and more aggressive to beat their opponent’s defense. Catoosa is a good team. We seeded the game in November; if they seeded it today, they would be the No. 1 seed. They are a tough team and they are undefeated for a reason.”
At 3:12 into the first quarter, the Tigers’ defense limited the Indians’ 8-7 lead. The Tigers scored in the first quarter from Carston Wilson, Weezy Johnson and Duke Dobbins.
CHS regained the lead a few minutes later, but the Tigers’ man-to-man defense ensured a 9-8 lead in the second quarter.
“I thought our first quarter was better than the last few games,” Qualls said.
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In the second quarter, the Indians found their rhythm with three-pointers, making all five of their three-pointers and leading 27-16 at halftime.
THS continued to lead as Jeter Morrison, Connor Tindall and Johnson all scored in the quarter.
The Indians continued to apply pressure after halftime, extending the lead to 50-35 at the end of the third quarter. At the end of the game, Catoosa extended its lead to 72-45.
The Tigers continue in the Port City Classic against the loser of Carthage and East Central Juniors on Friday, January 23 at 2:30 p.m.
“We have to have short memories and we have to react to adversity,” Qualls said. “We have to learn how to make the adjustments we need to make. There are some things you just have to take on the chin, but you have to respond with growth.” lo
