Apaches Slay Dragons in Thrilling Conference Win

Tyler, TX – Another thrilling conference victory for the Apaches at Wagstaff Gym, as they defeated the Paris Dragons in a heart-stopping finish, fueled by an electric crowd.

The Apaches came out strong in the first half, with multiple players contributing to an impressive offensive performance. Shots were falling from all angles, and the defense looked solid, holding off most of the Dragons' offensive drives. Timely steals led to easy fast-break layups, and the Apaches were in control.

At halftime, the Apaches held a 34-25 lead. Key contributors in the first half included Caden Bell, who scored 12 points, and Chris Uwayo Jr., who dazzled with his ball-handling skills and composed drives to the basket, adding 6 points.

However, the Dragons came out fighting in the second half. They ramped up their offense and started hitting key baskets, tying the game with eight minutes remaining. Leading the charge for the Dragons were Amari Brown (number 3), Kordrick Turner (number 23), and Caleb Barrett (number 24), all of whom finished in double figures and helped Paris catch up.

With the game tied at 64-64 and just a minute to go, it was anyone's game. In the final 40 seconds, the Apaches managed to edge out a slight lead. However, the Dragons quickly found themselves at the free-throw line with 20 seconds on the clock. The first shot clanged off the rim, sending the Apache crowd into a frenzy, but the second shot was good, cutting the Apache lead to 67-65.

The Dragons fouled Joey Brown to stop the clock, and Brown calmly sunk both free throws, pushing the Apaches' lead to a more comfortable 69-65. Yet, with 17 seconds remaining, the Dragons weren't done. They drove to the basket, and the referees called an Apache foul, sending JaKory Withers (number 15) to the line. Withers nailed both free throws, bringing the score to 69-67.

The Apaches regained possession and were once again fouled by the Dragons, putting Caden Bell at the line with just 7 seconds left. Bell stepped up and drained both free throws, giving the Apaches a 71-67 lead. The Dragons responded with one final drive to the basket, but their shot was good, cutting the lead to 71-69 with only 0.7 seconds left.

After a Paris timeout, the Apaches inbounded the ball and held firm to secure the win, 71-69.

Standout performances came from Caden Bell, who finished with 21 points, Joey Brown with 16 points, and Chris Uwayo Jr., who contributed 13 points.

Don't miss the Apaches in action again this Saturday, December 14th, as they take on Lamar State-Port Arthur, streaming live at 4 pm.