MANCHESTER, Ky. – Fans who attended the Tigers Friday night scrimmage versus Mercer County saw up close just how talented this year’s group is, and how well they can play. Adon Grubb’s two thunderous dunks sent chills down the spines of those who saw them. Now, Grubb and the Tigers get the chance to electrify the crowds once again against four strong opponents right out of the gate to open the regular season.
Tigers vs. Pineville
When? Tuesday, December 2nd (7:30PM)
Where? @ Pineville High School
Tale of the tape: The Tigers have opened their season against the Mountain Lions in four of the last four years. Clay County is 2-1 in that stretch, while also having knocked Pineville out of the region tournament last year. Now, in 2025, the Tigers will meet a Pineville squad without Sawyer Thompson and Ashton Moser, the high-scoring duo lost to graduation. Pineville aims to rebuild around sophomore guard Preston Zachary, and 6’8 transfer Kenton Brock. Clay County has the edge in this one but expect Pineville to play the Tigers hard just as they always do.
Tigers vs Harlan (Independent)
When? Thursday, December 4th (7:30PM)
Where? @ Clay County High School
Tale of the tape: Harlan comes to Manchester looking to show how much they’ve grown, as what was the region’s youngest team from last season now return everyone from last year. Sophomore’s Kobe Noe, Izack Saylor and Jaxson Perry will look to avenge losses handed to the Green Dragons by the Tigers through recent years. Clay County has owned this series as of late, and should continue to do the same in this matchup of a young team versus a region competitor.
Tigers vs Knox Central (PRTC Classic)
When? Friday, December 5th (9:30PM)
Where? @ Jackson County High School
Tale of the tape: New life has been breathed into the Knox Central basketball program as Coach Tony Patterson once again roams the sidelines for the Panthers. A winner of three straight regional tournaments, Patterson inherits a squad that lost star guard Grayson Burton, but retained contributors Hayden Melton, Nathan Dunn, and Christian Bargo. Patterson led teams always play physical, so expect much of the same in this early season monster matchup.
Tigers vs South Laurel
When? Tuesday, December 9th (7:30PM)
Where? @ Clay County High School
Tale of the tape: Clay County narrowly defeated the Cardinals 63-58 in last year’s incredible contest between these two 13th region powerhouses. Jeff Davis 2025/26 group lost four starters from last year but returns two former NLHS Jaguars Kaiden McQueen and Joe Smith. Guard play and quick rotations will be in abundance for the Cardinals, as Coach Davis always brings the pressure on defense. Expect a dogfight in this contest as the Tigers will look to make a statement early in the season against a strong opponent.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here