Republic blew a 10-point lead in the 4th quarter, but the Tigers more than made up for it in overtime. Republic outscored Ozark 14-3 in the extra period, winning 56-45 and capturing the championship of the Republic Invitational for the first time since 2013.
Treydon Rackley and Ty Stevens combined for 41 of Republic’s 56 points. Stevens had 21 and Rackley had 20. Both had big plays in the overtime (see sidebar).
Coach Trevyor Fisher says he tried to build his players back up after they lost the lead in the 4th quarter, focusing on defense as the overtime began.
“We just talked about building defensive stops together. We knew if we did that, we would give ourselves a chance…to win the game,” Fisher says. “We only gave up three points in overtime, and two of them were at the very end. So ultimately, our message was ‘Keep getting stops, rebound, and take care of the ball.’”
For the first three quarters, Republic’s defense helped them stay in control. The teams were tied 8-8 after the 1st quarter, but Republic led 24-17 at halftime. They led 33-27 going into the 4th quarter. Ozark seized the momentum in the 4th quarter, tying the game on its final possession of regulation when Quinn Nelson splashed in a 3-pointer. Treydon Rackley had an opportunity to win it, drawing contact on his drive to the bucket, but the officials didn’t blow the whistle and Rackley’s shot was no good.
In addition to the outbursts from Stevens and Rackley, Republic got seven points from Cameron Doke, five from Broc Smith, two from Caleb Singley, and one from Devon Ward.
“Anytime you win a tournament, it’s great––especially when it’s your own,” Fisher says. “To beat three quality teams––hopefully it’s something to build on. There’s still a lot of room for improvement, but it doesn’t get any easier as we move forward.”
Republic is 3-0. They’re off until next Saturday, when they play Cardinal Ritter in the Ozark Mountain Shootout at Glendale High School.
Crackerjack Shack Player of the Game
Ty Stevens and Treydon Rackley took turns in the spotlight. They combined for 41 points, and each turned in a big play in overtime. Rackley’s 3-pointer as the overtime period began put Republic in control, and Stevens’ steal and two ensuing free throws helped put the game away. They’re the Crackerjack Shack co-Players of the Game.
Our Tiger Player of the Game Honor is sponsored by the Crackerjack Shack. When it comes to Screen Printing, Embroidery, and Promotional Products, they’ve got your back! Check out their website for sales and design ideas.
