Tigers face challenge at Dan Noll Classic

Reginald Wade

Despite three game-high performances from Reginald Wade, the Troup Tigers fell short against stiff competition in the Dan Noll Classic, held Dec. 27-29 in White Oak.

Facing off against the host Roughnecks in the first round, the Tigers lost 56-41. Wade chipped in 21 points to lead all scorers, but the home team grabbed a big first quarter lead, 21-11, and then outscored Troup in the final stanza, 25-11, to secure the win.

Other scorers for the Tigers were Der'Rick Thompson with 13, Jake Johnson 5 and Cody Lepelley 2.

Troup's second-round game looked promising early, as the Tigers took the firstquarter lead, 22-18, over Maud. By halftime, Troup trailed by three, 35-32.

Behind Wade's 32 points, the Tigers outscored their opponent in both the second and third quarters to force an overtime period. Troup ultimately fell short, 64-63.

Thompson added 23 points, followed by Johnson, Jeremy Richardson and Charlie Ralph all with 2.

Playing in the tournament's consolation game, Troup lost to Spring Hill 54-46.

Wade again had 32 points, including three from long range territory.

Once again, the Tigers were slow to start as Spring Hill claimed an 18-8 lead in the first quarter, but Troup managed to narrow the deficit to one point heading into the locker room.

The teams remained close, 37-36, going into the fourth period, but the Panthers eventually pulled away.

Zach Childress scored 5 points for Troup, followed by Tee Franklin with 3 and Thompson, Richardson and Johnson all with 2.

The three tournament losses drop the Tigers' season record to 2-16. District play resumes today with Troup (0-1) traveling to Tatum.