As we narrowed down the 16 teams in the Marion County Tournament to just 4, the anticipation was high to take the top spot in the county. Southport came into the matchup with a 7-5 record after enduring many highs and lows throughout the season. A junior trio between A.J. Dancler, Nickens Lemba, and Keyon Miller have kept their season afloat. For North Central, the team expects big things this season with an impressive 9-3 record. The Panthers are led by 3 seniors; Blake Flemming, David Lloyd, and Davis Olson who have all played at a high level this season. 

   The Panthers had a fast start in the first quarter as they were up 17-6. Nickens Lemba was aggressive all over the court for Southport, but it was not enough to slow down North Central’s Davis Olson. In the second quarter, Southport managed to cut down their deficit to just 10 points. Nonetheless, North Central still looked to be in full control as David Lloyd took over the court! North Central expanded back out to a 40-24 lead in the third quarter with the help of Christian Woodson and Joey Brown. Southport’s A.J. Dancler, Shane Handlon, and Nickens Lemba continued to fight in the fourth quarter though it was not enough. North Central earned a slot in the Marion County Championship after defeating Southport 64-47!

Final Score:

North Central- 64

Southport- 47

Scoring Leaders:

A.J. Dancler – 25 pts. – Southport

David Lloyd – 17 pts. – North Central

David Lloyd knocks down the three continuing North Central’s dominant start!

No slowing up for the Panthers as Christian Woodson hits a three in the corner to end the 3rd quarter. 

A beautiful play from Nickens Lemba and A.J. Dancler of Southport, but they end up falling to North Central 64-47.