Staff Reports

GAYLESVILLE – The Collinsville Panthers claimed a spot in the Gaylesville Christmas Classic championship game with a 62-56 comeback victory over Asbury on Thursday.

Gavin Lang led the Panthers with 22 points, including four 3-pointers. Dawson Cothran delivered 19 points and seven rebounds. Mason McAteer managed eight points, including a pair of treys. Jake Middlebrooks finished with six points and five boards.

Collin Parker topped the Rams with 17 points, including two 3-pointers. Landon Bethune also had a pair of treys and finished with 13 points. Jayven McCoy managed 11 points. Caleb Gentry connected on a pair of treys and had six points. Clay Johnson finished with five points.

Collinsville held a 17-11 advantage at the end of the first quarter, but Asbury battled back to take a 27-22 lead at halftime. The Rams led 43-34 after three quarters, but then Collinsville closed out the game on a 28-13 run for the final.

Collinsville plays Westbrook Christian at 6:45 p.m. in the tournament championship game on Friday.