By Payton Hannah (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
Willard secured a hard-fought 57–49 victory over Republic on Monday night, punching their ticket to the Blue Division final.
The contest started with a quick pull-up three-pointer from sophomore Willard guard Uzziah Huskinsson, which was quickly matched by Republic guard Brody Blades with a crafty layup off the top of the glass. Republic was firing on all cylinders in the first period, with excellent ball movement and spacing that allowed center AJ Uhl to work effectively in the paint. Uhl also found his shot from range, hitting a deep three to help push Republic to an early lead. Late in the period, Willard found life with two long-range threes from senior Nahmy Kelley, which made it an 11–10 game in favor of Republic after one period of play.
Republic started hot again in the second period, with Blades once again cutting through the defense for a finesse layup. But Willard soon made adjustments that created problems for the Republic offense. Willard increased their defensive intensity and forced several turnovers that led to points. Kelley capped off a huge Willard rally by driving through the defense for a tough finish after a steal from Kingston Guavis, giving the Willard Tigers a 25–15 lead at the half.
CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS OF THE GAME
Willard stayed hot to start the second half, but Republic was able to find momentum after a series of successful possessions led by Uhl and Blades, cutting the Willard lead to just six points. Willard eventually stopped the Republic run with a Carson Foster three-pointer and would end the third period leading 43–34.
The Republic offense found new life in the fourth, clawing back to get within three points after some excellent defense, which ultimately led to a thunderous two-handed jam by Keiran Govan. After a timeout, Willard came out poised and quickly regained control of the game. Once again, Kelley found multiple ways to score and ultimately secured the win for Willard, with a final score of 57–49.
“To be honest, it’s trust,” said Willard head coach J.J. Adamson regarding how his team handled the close calls in the game. “We have a group of young men who are willing to be coached, who play for one another, and who are willing to trust the game plan; it’s phenomenal to be around.”
Kelley also highlighted trust as a key factor in the team’s success, noting, “Our coaches set us up for success, and I can always look to my teammates—they keep me right. I can always lean on Jude, Uzziah, and any of my teammates.”
CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO OF THE GAME
Willard will now face Logan-Rogersville for the Blue Division title, a championship the Tigers have been chasing since their last Blue & Gold championship in 2006, long before any of their current players were born. Speaking on what a victory would mean for the community, Kelley said, “I think our student section and fans would really get behind us and help push us heading into the rest of the season.”
The Blue Division Championship will tip off at 8:30 p.m. Tuesday night.
Willard: 10-15-18-14-(57)
Republic: 11-4-19-15-(49)
Top Performers
Willard: Uzziah Huskisson 22, Nahmy Kelley 19, Colbee Mowell 6
Republic: AJ Uhl 24, Brody Blades 10, Jin Villasica 8
