Bringing home the gold at the Gene Messer Classic Tournament this year is something the Tigers took great pride in after losing last year.
“We were excited to be back in the Championship game again this year after losing in the semifinals last year,” said Paul Page, Head Boys Basketball Coach. “The guys really wanted to win the Gene Messer this year and were really focused and it showed throughout the weekend. It’s pretty special to win the tournament that you host!”
The Tigers defeated Hobbs, Caprock, Monterey, and Rockwall-Heath scoring in the 80’s in every game.
Gene Messer Tournament Results
- Frenship defeats Hobbs, 84-40
- Frenship defeats Caprock, 80-40
- Frenship defeats Monterey, 84-66
- Frenship defeats Rockwall-Heath, 81-71
“The championship game vs. Rockwall-Heath was the most challenging game for us. They are a very balanced and good shooting team that played well and made it extremely difficult to stay locked in on defense,” said Coach Page. “We were able to come back from being down in the fourth quarter with the help of our very deep bench. We had a lot of guys step up and that was really good to see.”
This past Tuesday, December 5, the Tigers traveled to Amarillo, falling six points short to the Randall Raiders. The final score was 69-63.
“After Patton Pinkins went down with an injury early in the game, it was good to see some of our other guys really step up to fill that void. Including Jakari Davis with 15 points and Daniel Gedeon with 13 points. Once again, our bench played a key role in helping fight back late in the fourth quarter to help give us a chance to win a tough road game,” said Coach Page.
Entering every game with a focused mindset and expectation of giving 100% energy is a key component Coach Page uses to encourage and motivate the team.
“We have to be ready to play and match the intensity of all our opponents because we have become the team that everyone wants to beat and so, therefore, they give us their best game,” said Coach Page.
Yesterday, the Tigers traveled to Cedar Hill for the CW Jackson Lions Club Tournament. After a successful first day, the team is most looking forward to playing without any added stress or distractions.
“It will just be fun for this group to get to simply focus on playing basketball without all the other distractions of hosting a tournament like last weekend,” said Coach Page. “We will use it as a bonding and growing opportunity and continue to play hard like we always try to do.”
CW Jackson Lions Club Tournament Day One Results
- Frenship defeats Arlington, 53-41
- Frenship defeats Red Oak, 64-57
The Boys will continue to advance in the bracket today with the tournament wrapping up on Saturday, December 9. Stay tuned for the final results.
Good luck, Tigers!
Photos by: Camden Reese, Frenship High School Junior