In a nail-biting finish on January 9, 2024, the Fredericktown Blackcats claimed a 53-51 victory over the Doniphan Dons thanks to a series of late-game heroics. With only five seconds remaining, guard Mason Cureton converted a fast break layup, marking the decisive moment of the match. This victory extends Fredericktown’s winning streak to four games.
The contest, held in Doniphan, showcased intense gameplay, particularly in the final minutes. Fredericktown, which is now 8-6 for the season, executed a crucial 7-0 run in the last minute, overcoming a late deficit. Tucker Reutzel played a pivotal role, tying the game with a fast break basket just before Cureton’s winning shot.
Game Highlights and Player Performances
Both teams demonstrated resilience, with Doniphan (7-8) initially taking control. Star player Corey Hagood delivered an impressive performance, scoring a game-high 26 points and pushing the Dons to a 51-46 lead with just over a minute left. However, Fredericktown responded swiftly, as David Slinkard drained a critical three-pointer to narrow the gap.
Reutzel’s defensive prowess was evident throughout the match, as he recorded eight points, ten rebounds, and four assists. His ability to strip the ball and facilitate quick transitions proved vital in Fredericktown’s late-game surge. Slinkard and Blake Terry-Breakfield each contributed 14 points, underscoring a balanced scoring effort from the Blackcats.
After a competitive first half where Fredericktown led 31-25, the Dons rallied in the third quarter, outscoring the Blackcats 12-7. Yet, Fredericktown’s determination shone through in the final moments, as they forced two critical turnovers that shifted the game’s momentum.
Other Match Results from the Night
In additional matchups on the same evening, Kingston secured a 63-57 victory over Cystal City, bolstered by a standout performance from Brady Thompson, who scored 22 points. Kingston established a solid early lead, which they maintained despite a strong push from Crystal City.
South Iron also triumphed, defeating North County 60-55. South Iron’s strong start, holding their opponents scoreless for over six minutes, laid the groundwork for their victory. Cason Chilton led South Iron with 14 points, while the team capitalized on free throw opportunities, converting 14 of 16 attempts.
Lastly, Jefferson dominated West County with a 57-30 scoreline, led by Blayne Wilson, who tallied 21 points. The Blue Jays outscored the Bulldogs 27-10 in the final quarter, showcasing their offensive prowess.
As the season progresses, these thrilling matchups highlight the competitive spirit of high school basketball in the region, with teams striving for excellence as they head into the latter part of the schedule.
