Tigers dismantle Jackson in 49th opener

For the third time this year, the Clay County Tigers dismantled district rival Jackson County.
This time, it was in the opening round of the 49th District Tournament in McKee.
Clay won easily 74-46 as Adon Grubb led the Tigers with 21 points.
Coach Michael Jones’s club has beaten Jackson County by 42, 41, and 28 points this season.  Coach Jones pulled his starters with 5:25 remaining in the game, but the Generals waited a little longer to change their lineup.
The Tigers led by 12 at the half, 32-20, but a huge third quarter blew the game open.  Grubb led the scoring barrage as Clay outscored the Generals 26-8 to take a commanding 58-28 lead into the final period.
The super sophomore scored five straight points after halftime to get his team rolling. He finished with 10 in the quarter.
What was the difference starting the third quarter?  Grubb said Coach Jones told the team to slow down.
“We were just playing too fast and making mistakes,” Grubb said.  “We were more comfortable, and the more we made shots, the more confidence we gained.”
Clay had three players in double figures with Grubb.  Aiden Wagers had 13, Landon Dezarn 12, Jerrod Roark nine, Ethan Jackson five, Grayson Hooker five, Maxton Gray three, Brody Hooker two, Isaiah Bundy two, and Skylyr Sizemore two.
Clay will now set their sights on North Laurel for the 49th District Championship on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at Jackson County High School.