The Republic Tigers struggled at the free throw line all night, but Brody Thompson hit six straight free throws down the stretch to seal a 58-48 win over Carthage in their debut at the new arena. Thompson’s clutch shooting from the line helped stave off a Carthage rally that cut Republic’s lead from eight points to one, at 44-43. After that point, Republic outscored Carthage 14-5 down the stretch.
Kevin Stander had another big night for the Tigers, with 20 points, including the first five points of the game. Jonathan Combs added 15 points. Josh Morrow scored 9, Brody Thompson scored six, Ryan Mathis had 5, and Dylan Fletcher had 3 points.
Desmond Buerge led Carthage with 19 points.
Republic’s record improves to 8-2. Carthage falls to 7-6.
The freshmen won 46-39, and the JV won 76-56. That’s six total wins for the Tiger basketball teams in the new gym — three by the boys, and three by the girls Monday night.