Patriots Hold Off Determined Hurricanes

JCHS Patriots vs Morristown East Hurricanes
-Staff Photo by Mike Stanley

In a game that was much closer than many anticipated, Jefferson County held on to stay perfect in district play, 72-66. Morristown East came in to the contest 3-19 overall, but winners in 2 of their last 3 games and led 21-13 at the end of the first quarter. Jefferson County would respond in the second quarter though, outscoring the Hurricanes 19-7 and taking a 32-28 lead in to the break. John Bryant would score 9 of his team high 19 points in the third quarter and the Patriots would lead after three quarters of play, 46-43.

The fourth quarter, however, was a wild one. After an apparent foul was not called, Jefferson County head coach Chris Poore was whistled for a technical foul with just under six minutes remaining in the ball game. With the ensuing free throws, East would hold a 51-50 lead with 5:38 to play. For the next four and half minutes the Patriots would play inspired basketball, forcing turnovers and outhustling Morristown East to a 69-57 lead. Two quick three point baskets by Chris Snapp would trim the Patriot lead to, 69-63, with 43.8 seconds to play. A one of two trip to the free throw line by Malik Styles and another Snapp three pointer would cut the lead to 70-66 with only 6.6 seconds remaining. Malik Styles would go to the line once more connecting on both free throws to seal the win, 72-66.

The Patriots would be led in scoring by John Bryant with 19 points, followed by Brice Cusick with 18. Kyle Briggs added 13 while Noah Carter and Danny Bates scored 9 and 7 respectively. Malik Styles chipped in 6 to round out the scoring for the Patriots.

Jefferson County improves to 22-3 on the year and is on pace to have the most successful season in school history. The 1978-1979 Patriots finished 27-5. The Patriots travel to Greeneville Saturday night at 8pm before returning home to host Morristown West on Monday.