By Shannon Fagan, WEIS Sports Director
CENTRE – A week ago, the Cherokee County Warriors went toe-to-toe with the Alexandria Valley Cubs. They ultimately fell in overtime by two, but the area game against No. 6 Alexandria gave the ninth-ranked Warriors a bit of confidence.
The two teams had their rematch on Tuesday in Centre, but junior post player Ben Moseley’s early foul trouble prevented the Warriors from getting into a rhythm. The Valley Cubs took advantage in a 61-46 victory.
“They really hurt us on the rebounding,” Cherokee County coach Caleb Hays said. “We were trying to play as smart as we could and make sure he (Moseley) was available in the fourth (quarter). They just attacked us on the offensive glass and we didn’t do a great job. When (Quendavion) McDowell gets the ball down there it’s tough for anybody to guard him. He’s super-physical, a great finisher. They’ve got shooters too, so it’s hard to do what you need to do to stop just him because then they’re going to go out there and make shots, and they shot the ball well tonight.”
Jaylen Henderson was one of those sharpshooters. He connected on three 3-pointers and finished with a game-high 22 points for the Valley Cubs (18-3, 4-0).
Meanwhile inside, McDowell posted 16 points and grabbed 19 rebounds.
“The biggest thing was we just kept giving them second chances to get shots,” Hays said. “Even if they missed the first one, they were getting another opportunity. Those guys aren’t going to miss twice most of the time.”
Moseley’s 6-foot-5 presence was missed by the Warriors (8-5, 3-2). He picked up three fouls in the first quarter, which changed the Warrior game plan.
Alexandria jumped out to a 22-12 advantage in the first quarter and led 32-26 at halftime. The Valley Cubs held a 48-38 edge after three quarters.
Reid Jacoway led the Warriors with 15 points. Tatum Perry added 13. Moseley finished with eight points.
Cherokee County looks to rebound in the Cherokee County Tournament semifinals on Friday. The Warriors will take on Sand Rock at Richard Lindsey Arena in Centre at 8:30 p.m.
