Titans down Rockets to advance to 12th Region Semifinals
Mercer County senior Alijah Mink went up for three of his six points in a 61-49 win over Rockcastle County Wednesday night.
Mercer County senior Will Hager finished with 20 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists in a win over Rockcastle County in the 12th Region Tournament Wednesday night.
The Harrodsburg Herald
sports@harrodsburgherald.com
The Mercer County boy’s basketball team advanced to the 12th Region semifinals after defeating Rockcastle County 61-49 Wednesday night in the opening round.
Senior Will Hager led the way for the Titans with 20 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists. Trevon Faulkner and Dylan James added 12 and 11 points, respectively.
Mercer County jumped out to a 20-13 lead after one quarter, and held a 32-22 halftime lead.
Although they trailed by 10 points at the break, the Rockets refused to go away, and tied the game, 42-42, with just seconds remaining in the third quarter. The Titans scored the final bucket of the quarter and led 44-42 after three quarters.
“Rockcastle County made shots,” said Mercer County Head Coach Josh Cook. “They came out and hit several straight three-pointers. I was upset our guys didn’t really close out on the three-point line.”
While Rockcastle County controlled the tempo in the third quarter, the fourth quarter was all Mercer County, as they outscored the Rockets 17-7.
“Our guys made adjustments and our leadership stepped up when they needed to and our guys were just focused on getting the win and they found a way to do that,” said Cook.
Mercer County will face Southwestern Monday, March 7 at 6 p.m. in the 12th Region semifinals at Pulaski County. The Titans defeated Southwestern 86-83 on Feb. 19.
“I am proud of our guys. It is a regional tournament game and they showed poise tonight and found a way to get a win,” said Cook. “It is going to be a tough test. Southwestern can really score the basketball. I feel confident our guys will come out ready and excited to play.”
