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Coach Vaughn Blankenship applauds as McKinsey Gray holds the team trophy high after the Lady Blue Devils defeat the Sweetwater Lady Bulldogs PHOTO BY CHARLINDA OGLE
The first Cordell Classic Basketball Tournament unfolded with thrilling matches and standout performances from the girl’s and boys’ teams.
On Thursday, in an exceptional display of skill, the girls’ team secured a resounding victory, triumphing 81-14 against Olustee-Eldorado High School. Leading the charge were standout players Rylee Chagollia, scoring 17 points; Peyton Garrison, scoring 16; Birdie Brown, scoring 15; McKinsey Gray, scoring 13; Calliy Walker, scoring 9; Kyndal Norris, scoring 7; and Allee Brock, scoring 4. Unfortunately, Allee Brock’s injury during the game hindered the high spirits. The boys faced a tough challenge against Geary High School and fell short with a score of 58-39. Harlee Taylor and Dason Ramsey both had 13 points each, Gage Miller had 6, Jordan Wood had 4, and Scout Regier had 3, showcasing their skills on the court. Notably, an intentional foul was called on Harlee Taylor during the match.
On Friday, the girls continued their winning streak, defeating Erick High School with a score of 50-24. Key contributors included Rylee Chagollia with 16 points, Birdie Brown with 10, Calliy Walker with 9, McKinsey Gray with 8, and Peyton Garrison with 7. The boys’ team asserted their dominance with a convincing 68-28 win against Olustee-Eldorado High School. Harlee Taylor (17 points), Gage Miller (16 points), Dason Ramsey (11 points), Jordan Wood (9 points), Border Dodd (4 points), Kinser Todd (4 points), Matthew Fuller (3 points), Scout Regier (2 points), and Eathan Fenning (2 points) contributed to this commanding victory.
On Saturday, the girls faced a nail-biting showdown in the championship game against Sweetwater High School, emerging victorious with a close score of 5351. McKinsey Gray had 1 point, Peyton Garrison had 4 points, Rylee Chagollia had 8 points, Calliy Walker had 13 points, and leading our team to victory, Birdie Brown scored 27 points, displaying teamwork and determination. In the boys’ consolation championship, the team secured a solid 64-42 win against Grandfield High School. Scout Regier scored 2 points, Matthew Fuller scored 6 points, Harlee Taylor scored 8 points, Jordan Wood scored 9 points, Dason Ramsey scored 19 points, and Gage Miller scored a remarkable 20 points. Adding a fun twist to the tournament, a scrimmage featuring Cordell cheerleaders and the mascot entertained the crowd during the boys’ halftime break.
The Cordell Classic Tournament was a true testament to the team’s skills, determination, and sportsmanship. Congratulations to both the girls’ and boys’ teams for their outstanding performances throughout the weekend!