Dragons’ Season Comes To An End In State Tournament
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports May 1, 2016
This past Friday, the PHS Dragons baseball team traveled down to Atlanta to take on the #3 seed out of region 6-AAAA, the St. Pius Golden Lions in the first round of the 4A State Tournament. This was a 3-game series meaning the team to first win two games, advanced to the next round.
The Dragons were the away team in game 1 and were looking to jump out early on the Golden Lions. Travis Huffman led things off with a double to left center on the first pitch he saw, firing up the Pickens dugout. Tyler Garner then cranked out a two-run bomb bringing the Dragon faithful to their feet as Pickens took a 2-0 lead. Not to be outdone, Dalton Presley found a pitch to his liking and sent it over the left center fence to make it 3-0 after one half inning. St. Pius got a run in the bottom of the frame, and after 1, the Dragons held a 3-1 lead.
Both pitchers were able to get out of jams and settle down for the most part to the 5th inning. The Golden Lions were able to plate 4 in the bottom of the inning to take the lead, 5-3. St. Pius then added on to that lead in the bottom of the 6th with 3 runs to stretch it out to 8-3 going to the 7th. The Dragons tried to get a rally going after a hit by pitch, a single, & an RBI single from Dylan Huffman, but it would not be enough as the Golden Lions took game 1, 8-4.
Travis Huffman went 6 innings giving up 6 ER, & striking out 5 on 99 pitches & went 1-3 with a double, & 1 run scored
Walker Lawrence went 1-3 with a single
Tyler Garner went 1-3 with a home run, 2 RBI, & a run scored
Dalton Presley went 1-2 with a home run, 1 RBI, & a run scored
Wyatt Gooch went 1-3 with a single
Dylan Huffman went 1-3 with a single, & 1 RBI
Caleb Brooks went 1-3 with a single
Dillon Champion scored a run
For game 2, the Dragons were the home team and West Ga commit Tyler Garner would be given the ball to pitch for Pickens. Garner got off to a good start, retiring the Golden Lions on 16 pitches. For St. Pius, Ga Tech commit Garrett Gooden took to the mound and proved to be as tough as advertised. In the top of the 2nd, the Golden Lions struck first with a two-run home run to go up 2-0. St. Pius added to that lead with 3 in the 3rd, to make it 5-0.
The Golden Lions stretched out the lead with three in the 5th to make it 8-0. St. Pius went on to get the win 8-0, and taking the series in the process, 2-0. The Dragons just could not get anything going only drawing two walks and getting a lone hit from Garner in game 2.
Pickens finishes the season at 16-11, and with a 2nd straight state tournament appearance. While the Dragons are losing a handful of seniors, they will be returning a big chunk of core guys with a lot of varsity experience and adding young kids that had success during the JV season for next season.
Dragons Celebrate Senior Night With Win
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports April 23, 2016
Yesterday, the PHS Dragons baseball team hosted the Raiders of Southeast Whitfield in the final regular season game of the season. Earlier in the season, the Raiders bested the Dragons in Dalton, with Pickens looking to avenge that loss. Prior to the game, the bat boy for the Dragons and the all-time home run leader for Pickens Jake King added to his record with an inside the park homer.
Senior Tyler Garner took to the hill for the Dragons in the final game before the state tournament. The Raiders had a mini threat brewing in the top of the 1st, but Garner and the Dragon defense were able to get out of it, sending us to the bottom of the opening frame. Travis Huffman led the inning off for Pickens with a triple to left center, and was brought in on a sac RBI by Walker Lawrence to give the Dragons a 1-0 lead going to the 2nd. Garner struck out two in the top of the 2nd, and Pickens went in order to send us to the 3rd with the Dragons still ahead, 1-0.
Southeast Whitfield plated a run in the top of the 3rd to tie things up at 1 a piece. The tie would not last long however as RBI hits from Joseph Gossett, Lawrence, & Garner gave the Dragons a 4-1 lead going to the 4th. The Raiders threatened in the top of the 7th with runners at 2nd and 3rd, but Dylan Huffman was able to work around it and close things out for the Dragons giving Pickens a 4-1 win on Senior Night.
After the ball game, seniors (as pictured above), Tyler Garner, Clayton Wilson, Walker Lawrence, Dillon Champion, & Caleb Brooks were recognized for their contributions to the program and to PHS Athletics.
Tyler Garner went 6 & 1/3rd innings giving up 1 run on 6 hits, walking 3, & striking out 9 on 117 pitches & had 1 RBI
Dylan Huffman went 2/3rd’s innings giving up no hits and no runs on 14 pitches
Travis Huffman went 1-2 with a triple and a run scored
Walker Lawrence went 1-2 with a single, 2 RBI, & a run scored
Caleb Brooks went 2-3 with a double, a single, and a run scored
Joseph Gossett went 2-2 with a single, a double, 1 RBI, & a run scored
The first round opponent for the 4A state baseball tournament has yet to be determined as of now for the Dragons. What is for sure is that it will either be against Redan or St. Pius on Friday, the 29th. Times and location will be determined later.
Dragons Grab 3rd Place With Sweep Of Ridgeland
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports April 20, 2016
Yesterday, the PHS Dragons baseball team hosted the Ridgeland Panthers at Dragons Field in the most important game of the season to date. Both teams came in tied for third in the 7-AAAA region standings, and the winner would have the inside track to the 3 seed in the upcoming 4A state tournament.
Travis Huffman got the call to start for the Dragons in this crucial game. Ridgeland was able to get on the board first in the top of the 1st scoring two runs. Pickens wasted little time getting their bats going as the Dragons got a pair of 2 RBI doubles from Dalton Presley & Dylan Huffman, plus RBI hits from Wyatt Gooch & Joseph Gossett to take a 6-2 lead going to the 2nd. In the top of the 2nd, the Panthers cut the Pickens lead in half making it 6-3. The Dragons got that run back when Walker Lawrence scored after drawing a walk, stealing 2nd, then advancing home on two fielding errors to make it 7-3 going to the 3rd.
In the 5th, Ridgeland cut even more into the Dragons lead as they were able to plate two runs, sending us to the bottom of the frame and Pickens clinging to a 7-5 lead. A wild pitch led to a Dragons run to stretch the lead to 8-5 going to the 6th. In the 6th, Pickens got an RBI from Presley, Gooch, Dillon Champion, & D. Huffman to break the lead open to 12-5. Tyler Garner came in and closed things out in the top of the 7th to give the Dragons a 12-5 win and control of 3rd place.
Travis Huffman went 6 innings giving up 3 ER on 6 hits, and striking out 6 on 98 pitches & went 2-4 at the plate
Walker Lawrence drew a walk and scored two runs
Tyler Garner went 2-4 and scored two runs & went 1 inning giving up 1 hit and struck out 1 on 13 pitches
Dominic Stephens went 1-4
Dalton Presley went 2-3 with a double, a triple, a walk, & 3 RBI
Wyatt Gooch went 2-4 with a single, a double, 2 RBI, & 1 run scored
Dillon Champion went 2-3 with a double, a single, 2 RBI, & 2 runs scored
Dylan Huffman went 2-3 with a double, a single, 3 RBI, & a run scored
Joseph Gossett went 2-3 with a double, a single, & 1 RBI
Caleb Brooks scored 2 runs
With the win, Pickens is now 15-9 on the season and 8-5 in 7-AAAA play. There will be one more home game this regular season and it will take place on Friday as the Dragons welcome the Raiders of Southeast Whitfield to Dragons Field. If the game is postponed, the two teams will play on Saturday.
Late Inning Magic Propel Dragons Past Cartersville
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports March 26, 2016
Last night, the PHS Dragons varsity baseball team hosted one of the highly rated teams in the state, the Cartersville Purple Hurricanes, in a big early region match up. The Canes came into the ball game at 6-6 and 2-0 in region play, while the Dragons came in with a record of 9-5 & 2-1 in region.
Travis Huffman got the start for the Dragons and turned in an amazing performance. In the top of the 1st, Cartersville was able to take the lead early as three hits, and a couple passed balls led to 2 runs for the Canes. Pickens, had it’s chance in the bottom of the frame as they were able to get two runners on with two out, but Cartersville was able to get out of that jam, and send us to the 2nd, with the Canes up, 2-0. T. Huffman was able to settle down in the 2nd, and get Cartersville in order to send us to the bottom of the 2nd.
In what seemed to be a theme throughout the game, the Dragons had a big chance in the bottom of the 2nd with the bases loaded, but were unable to capitalize as the Canes escaped the threat. T. Huffman again showed great stuff in the 3rd, as he K’d two Canes on the way to a 9 pitch inning. In the bottom of the 3rd, Pickens had another chance to cut into the 2-0 Cartersville lead, but runners were left at 1st & 3rd, sending us to the 4th. Both teams were shut down quietly in the 4th, as both pitchers were throwing great games.
In the 5th, Cartersville left a runner at 2nd, as T. Huffman was able to work around it. After drawing two walks in the bottom of the inning, the Dragons left runners at 1st & 2nd, sending us to the 6th, with the Canes still leading, 2-0. Both teams were unable to get anything going in the 6th, as we’d head to the final inning, Cartersville maintaining it’s lead, 2-0. T. Huffman k’d two in the top of the 7th, sending us to the bottom of the 7th, Dragons down to their final three outs, and trailing 2-0.
After Tyler Garner & Dalton Presley were able to get on, they were replaced by courtesy runners, Dylan Huffman, & Caleb Brooks. Walker Lawrence then got on with a single to load the bases. Zack Moore then brought in D. Huffman with a sac fly to make it 2-1 Cartersville. As Brooks was attempting a steal to 3rd, the throw over to 3rd sailed over the 3rd baseman’s head and Brooks came home to tie things up at 2. Dillon Champion & Joseph Gossett drew walks to load the bases, still with one out. With a 1-1 count to Wyatt Gooch, a wild pitch was sent to the backstop and Lawrence came in to give the Dragons a 3-2 win.
Travis Huffman went the distance giving up 2 runs on just 3 hits and striking out 10 on 98 pitches
Zack Moore had 1 RBI
Dylan Huffman scored 1 run
Caleb Brooks scored 1 run
Walker Lawrence went 1-3 with a run scored
This is a big win for Pickens. After leaving a total of 11 runners on base, they found a way to score when it mattered. With the win, the Dragons are now 10-5 on the season & 3-1 in region play. Pickens will host a pair of region games next week, starting with Northwest Whitfield on Tuesday. First pitch is scheduled for 5:55.
Dragons Improve To 6-4 With Win Over Towns Co.
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports March 15, 2016
Yesterday, the PHS Varsity Baseball team hosted the Towns Co. Indians in a non-region ball game at Dragons Field. Pickens came into the ball game at 5-4, and looked to keep things going with region play starting later this week.
Dylan Huffman got the call to start for the Dragons and looked very impressive. Towns Co. was able to get a run on two hits, but D. Huffman & the Pickens defense kept the damage to just one to send us to the bottom of the frame. The Dragons answered with 2 runs to take a 2-1 lead going to the 2nd.
In the 2nd, D. Huffman worked around a runners at 1st & 3rd jam to keep the Pickens lead at 2-1 going to the bottom of the 2nd. In the bottom of the 2nd, the Dragons bats came to life and Pickens would blow things open. The Dragons ended up batting around in the line up twice, scoring 15 runs, and mashing out 12 hits in the half inning to lead the Indians, 17-1 going to the 3rd. Towns Co. got a run out of the top of the 3rd, but that was it as the game was called after three innings due to the 15 run rule. Pickens got the win, 17-2.
Dylan Huffman went 2 innings giving up 1 run on 3 hits and striking out 4 on 45 pitches. Went 1-1 with a run scored
Travis Huffman went 1-1 with a single, 1 RBI, 3 runs scored, & 2 walks
Wyatt Gooch went 1-2 with a single, 2 runs scored, & a walk
Tyler Garner went 1-1 with a double, 4 RBI, & a run scored
Dalton Stephens went 1-1 with a single & a run scored. Gave up 1 run on 10 pitches in 1 inning
Dalton Pressley went 1-2 with a double, 3 RBI, & a run scored
Dalton Sipsy went 1-1 with a single, 1 RBI, & 1 run scored
Walker Lawrence went 2-3 with 2 singles, 1 RBI, & 1 run scored
Zack Moore went 2-2 with a triple, a single, 1 RBI, & 2 runs scored
Gabe Groover went 0-0 with a HBP & 1 RBI
Slade Hillhouse went 1-1 with a single, & 2 runs scored
Caleb Brooks went 1-1 with a single, & 1 RBI
Joseph Gossett went 1-2 with a single, 1 RBI, & 2 runs scored
The Dragons will be back at it on Wednesday as they travel to take on the Union Co. Panthers before hitting the road again on Friday as they open up region play with a doubleheader against LaFayette.
Dragons Get The Week Sweep Over Murray Co.
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports March 11, 2016
Yesterday, the PHS Dragons varsity baseball team hosted the Indians of Murray Co. for a non-region ball game. Pickens came into the ball game having defeated the Indians over at Murray on Tuesday 13-1, and were looking to get the week sweep inside their park.
Dalton Sipsy started for the Dragons yesterday and got 2 K’s to begin the game, but the Indians were able to bring a run in and lead things 1-0 going to the bottom of the frame. A lead off triple by Travis Huffman sparked a four run inning for Pickens. Wyatt Gooch brought in 2 with an RBI double & Sipsy & Gooch later came in to score. Sipsy kept the Indians quiet in the 2nd as he struckout the side to send us to the bottom half of the inning.
In the 2nd, the Dragons as T. Huffman & Dillon Champion drove in runs to make it 6-1 going to the 3rd. After striking out the 1st batter he faced in the 3rd, Sipsy was relieved by Walker Lawrence who worked around a bloop hit to get the final two outs of the inning to bring the Dragons back up to the plate. Pickens scored 5 runs in the 3rd thanks an RBI from Slade Hillhouse, 2 RBI from Zack Moore, & an RBI from Joseph Gossett (one run was brought in on an error), to give the Dragons an 11-1 lead going to the 4th.
Josh Holbert relieved Lawrence in the 4th and also worked around a hit to finish off the inning to send us to the bottom of the 4th. The inning began with the 4th place hitter Dominic Stephens, and the game ended with Stephens as the Dragons again brought in 5 runs making it 16-1 after Stephens’ RBI hit and envoking the 15 run rule after 4 innings. Pickens took this one, 16-1. Pickens outscored Murray Co. during the week 26-2 in the two wins.
The Dragons got great pitching all game long and showed patience at the plate having only 8 hits to go along with their 16 runs.
Dalton Sipsy went 2 & 1/3rd innings giving up just 1 hit, 1 run, 1 walk, & striking out 6 on 47 pitches & drew a walk and scored a run
Walker Lawrence went 1 & 1/3rd innings giving up one hit, & striking out 1 on 13 pitches
Travis Huffman went 2-4 with a triple, a single, 2 RBI, & 2 runs scored
Dillon Champion had an RBI and a run scored while Caleb brooks drew a walk and brought in 1 run
Dominic Stephens went 2-4 with 2 singles, an RBI, & 2 runs scored
Wyatt Gooch went 1-1 with a double, 2 RBI, & a run scored & Tyler Garner went 1-1 with a double and a run scored
Dalton Presley went 1-2 with a single & a run scored
Slade Hillhouse brought in 1 run and scored 2
Zack Moore went 1-2 with a double, 2 RBI, & a run scored & Dylan Huffman went 1-1 with a single & a run scored
Joseph Gossett drew two walks, scored 2 runs, & drove in a run on a sacrifice fly
The Dragons are now 5-4 on the season and will look to continue their winning ways when they host Towns Co. on Monday as part of a make up game. First pitch scheduled for 4:30
Pickens Basketball Celebrates Season At Banquet
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports March 8, 2016
Last night, the PHS Basketball program celebrated their seasons with their end of the year banquet. Coaches talked about the good things during the season, the growth of the players, & sang happy birthday to the birthday girl, Nettes’ varsity head coach Donna Enis.
The cheerleaders were up first to celebrate their season and recognize everyone that helped them throughout the year. After the cheerleaders were given their certificates, it was girls JV coach Jenna Shaw’s turn as she talked about her teams season. She had several freshman and young girls on the roster and sees great potential in the girls. Next up, was coach Beckham for the C-team (9th grade), while they did not win a game during the season, coach Beckham was very encouraged by the progress they made during the year.
After the C-Team, it was JV boys coach Bo Page’s turn to recognize his team and their season. He acknowledged his team for improving during the season and for helping the Varsity prepare for their games. It would be the Dragonettes turn to be recognized as coach Enis shared her thoughts on the season. She noted that while she had a young team, she was thrilled how they came together to be just one game shy of having back to back state tournament appearances.
Sophomore Mackenzie Hampton was recognized as an All-region player and Madison McClure, Ashley Nelson, & Autumn Young were recognized as Honorable Mentions for the All-Region team. Sophomore Shelby Cook took home the Biscuit Award given to the girl who drew the most charges. Ashley Nelson received the Academic Award for having the highest GPA on the team.
Kaitlin Redman then was awarded the Most Improved Award. The Offensive Player went to Mackenzie Hampton while the Defensive Player went to Madison McClure. The Coach Pruitt Award went to Taylor Wigington. Ashley Nelson was rewarded with the Sierra Stephens Heart of a Dragon Award & Madison McClure received the Sierra Stephens Memorial Scholarship. The MVP went to Autumn Young.
Last but not least, varsity boys coach Brad Steinhauer came up to the podium to talk about his team. He mentioned winning two games in one day to reach the state tournament and beating rival Gilmer four times in one season.
Holden Roop was recognized as All-Region for the Dragons & Trent Rizoti received All-Region Honorable Mention. Both players will be playing in the N. Ga All Star game on Thursday. Sam Davis was awarded the Defensive Player award while Holden Roop got the Offensive Player award.
Winner of the Academic Award was Avery Luke for having the team high GPA. The Best Rebounder Award went to Trent Rizoti. Tyler Garner took home the Jennings Key Memorial Award. The RJ Casey Spirit Award went to Joseph Gossett. The Heart of a Dragon Award went to Walker Lawrence. The Stephen Ledford Memorial Award went to DJ Walden. The Final award of the night was the MVP Award and was given to Holden Roop.
It was a great night celebrating everyone that had a part in making this season of PHS Basketball successful. Both teams have a lot of young talent and the future is bright for both the Nettes’ & Dragons.
8 Run Inning Powers Dragons Past Apalachee
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports February 28, 2016
After a thrilling 9 inning game between the Dawson Tigers and the Apalachee Wildcats, the Dragons were next to play the Wildcats. Pickens wasted little time getting the scoring started.
After Senior starting pitcher Tyler Garner got a 1-2-3 top of the first, the Dragons got on the board in the bottom of the frame as Senior Walker Lawrence drove in Travis Huffman on a sac fly to give Pickens a 1-0 lead going to the 2nd. Garner continued his stellar work on the mound as he fanned all three Wilcat batters he faced in the top of the 2nd. The Dragons added to their lead in the bottom half as Travis Huffman drove in Joseph Gossett & his brother Dylan Huffman, then Garner helped his own cause after driving in T. Huffman to stretch the lead to 4-0 going to the 3rd.
In the 3rd, Garner again struck out the side to send us to the bottom of the 3rd. In the bottom of the 3rd, the Dragons opened things up with an 8 run inning on 7 hits, getting an RBI from Wyatt Gooch, D. & T. Huffman, Zach Moore, Garner, Lawrence, Dalton Presley, & Gossett. Dominic Stephens replaced Garner in the 4th and shut down Apalachee allowing only one hit and one walk. Pickens came away with the win after 5 innings, 12-0. Evening their season record at 2-2.
Tyler Garner went 3 IP, 6 K’s, 0 H, 0 BB, 0 R on 53 pitches & went 1-4 with 1 single, 2 RBI, & 1 run scored
Dominic Stephens went 2 IP, 3 K’s, 1 H, 1 BB, 0 R on 33 pitches
Travis Huffman went 3-3 with 2 singles, 1 double, 3 RBI, & 3 runs scored
Dylan Huffman went 2-3 with 2 singles, 1 RBI, & 2 runs scored
Walker Lawrence had a single, & 2 RBI
Dalton Presley went 2-3 with an RBI, & 2 runs scored
The Dragons will again be on the home field this Wednesday as they host former region foe, the North Hall Trojans. First pitch is set for 5 p.m.
Dragons Fall To Tough Dawson Team
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports February 28, 2016
Yesterday, the PHS Dragons Varsity baseball team hosted the Tigers of Dawson Co. & the Wildcats of Apalachee in a three game Saturday matinee. The first game for the Dragons pitted them against Dawson.
After a lead off double by UGA commit, Tucker Maxwell, Dragons starting pitcher Travis Huffman got Pickens out of the inning with no harm done. Pickens went quietly in the bottom of the 1st and we went to the 2nd, scoreless. In the top of the 2nd, the Tigers brought in 3 runs with one of those runs coming off of a passed ball. A lead off single is all the Dragons mustard in the bottom of the frame as the 2nd inning came to a close, Dawson leading, 3-0.
A scoring threat by the Tigers was derailed by Pickens as T. Huffman struck out two and Dawson left two runners on. The Dragons had a scoring chance of their own in the botttom of the fourth, but the runner would be left stranded and as we went to the 5th, the Tigers still led, 3-0. Dawson added a run in the top of the 5th to make things 4-0. Again, Pickens had a scoring chance but left runners stranded at the corners to send us to the 6th, Tigers up, 4-0.
In the bottom of the 6th, the Dragons were finally able to get on the scoreboard as Junior Dalton Presley drove in Zach Moore to cut the Dawson lead to 4-1. That was all the scoring the Dragons could manage in this game as the Tigers put away Pickens in the 7th to get the win, 4-1.
Dalton Presley went 1-3 with 1 double & 1 RBI
Walker Lawrence went 2-3 with 2 singles
Tyler Garner went 1-3 with a double
Travis Huffman went four innings, gave up 2 ER, & struck out 4 on 72 pitches
Dragons Bats Come Alive Against Jackson For First Win Of The Season
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports February 21, 2016
After falling to the Madison Co. Red Raiders in their first game of the season, the PHS Dragons varsity baseball team looked to bounce back later that afternoon against the Red Devils of Jackson. Pickens got both great pitching, and great offense in this one.
In the top of the 1st inning, starting pitcher Travis Huffman got off to a quick start striking out two of the Red Devils hitters. The Dragons bats got hot early in the bottom of the inning As Dominic Stephens, Joseph Gossett, & Slade Hillhouse combined to drive in 4 runs for Pickens going to the 2nd inning. Huffman continued his early dominance, striking out the side, sending us to the bottom of the frame.
Huffman wasn’t only doing things with his arm, but he led off the bottom of the 2nd with a double and later came around to score after Stephens drove him in for his 2nd RBI of the game. Huffman added to his strikeout total in the 3rd, racking up two more in the half inning. Pickens added five runs to their run total in the bottom half getting 2 RBI from Zach Moore and Walker Lawrence and an RBI from Dalton Presley.
Huffman went on to fan two more in the 4th, and the Dragons were able to close things out in the top of the 5th, to take this one 10-0 and get their first win of this season.
Travis Huffman went 4 innings, gave up 1 hit, walked 4, & struck out 9 on 75 pitches while going 2-2 with 2 doubles, 1 BB, & 3 runs scored
Dominic Stephens went 2-3 with 2 RBI & a run scored
Walker Lawrence went 1-2 with 2 RBI & a walk
Zach Moore went 2-4 with 2 RBI & 2 runs scored
Slade Hillhouse went 1-3 with 2 RBI
Tyler Garner drew three walks in his plate appearances and scored 2 runs
The Dragons will now get ready for another non-region opponent in the Union Co. Panthers on Wednesday at home. First pitch is set for 5 p.m.
Dragons Fall To Red Raiders In Season Opener
Team FYN Sports February 21, 2016
Yesterday, the PHS Dragons varsity baseball season officially got underway with a pair of out-of-region games. The Madison County Red Raiders were the first opponent of the day for Pickens as they looked to start their season off on the right foot.
West GA Baseball commit Tyler Garner took the mound for the Dragons in game one. Madison Co. struck first in the 1st inning after getting a lead off triple to go up 1-0 heading to the bottom half of the 1st. The Dragons were poised to answer with the bases loaded, but could not bring in any runs and we’d go to the 2nd with the Red Raiders ahead, 1-0.
In the 2nd, Madison Co. tacked on another run to their lead to make it 2-0 going to the bottom of the frame. Pickens went quietly in the 2nd, and we went to the 3rd, Red Raiders up, 2-0. Madsion Co. yet again added another run in the top half of the 3rd to make things 3-0 in their favor. The Dragons bats finally came alive in the bottom of the inning as they struck for four runs to take a 4-3 lead going to the 4th.
The lead did not last long however as the Red Raiders tied things up with a solo shot. Madison Co. added another run in the inning to reclaim the lead, 5-4. The Red Raiders added two more runs, and held off Pickens to get their 2nd win on the young season, 7-4. The Dragons had their chances in this one having the lead off man on in 5 of 7 innings and leaving 8 men on base.
Dillon Champion went 2-3 with a double, a single, & 2 RBI
Slade Hillhouse & Dominic Stephens had 1 RBI each
Zach Moore went 1-2 with 2 walks & 1 run scored
Dragons Season Comes To A Close At State Tournament
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports February 18, 2016
Last night, the PHS Dragons varsity basketball team traveled down to Atlanta to take on the #1 seed out of 6-AAAA, the Grady Grey Knights in the first round of the Boys 4A state tournament. This was the first appearance for the Dragons since 2012, and only the 2nd appearance since 2001, when they advanced to the elite 8.
In the opening quarter, Grady got out quickly with an 8-0 run. Pickens got things going themselves and had a 12-6 run to cut the Grey Knights lead to 14-12. Grady made a mini 5-0 run to end the quarter and take a 19-12 lead into the 2nd. In the 2nd, the Grey Knights had things working on both sides of the ball. Grady blew the lead open going into the break, 49-17.
In the 3rd, both teams were able to get their share of scoring. Both teams put in 19 points a piece as we went to the 4th, Grady leading, 68-36. In a shortened 4th quarter, both teams emptied out their bench, as the Dragons seniors walked off the court for the final time. The Grey Knights closed this one out to advance, 78-44.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Holden Roop: 13 points, 5 assists, 1 rebound, & 2 steals
Trent Rizoti: 13 points, & 4 rebounds
Tyler Garner: 6 points, 4 rebounds, 1 steal & 1 block
Avery Luke: 6 points, 1 assist, & 1 rebound
Sam Davis: 2 points, 2 assists, 4 rebounds, & 1 block
Walker Lawrence: 2 points, 1 assist, 2 rebounds, & 1 steal
Chase Simmons: 2 points, & 1 steal
This team did a great job of competing and getting closer to where they want to be. Reaching the region semis after winning two game in one day, and reaching the state tournament despite the record. Losing six seniors like Holden, Trent, Tyler, Sam, Walker, & DJ will be tough. There is a good group of young talent in the system though. Things look to be turning around for this Pickens Dragons basketball program.
Dragons To Face Grady On Wednesday
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports February 14, 2016
Yesterday afternoon, the PHS Dragons varsity basketball team made their final trip of the week to Southeast Whitfield for the last day of the 7-AAAA Region Tournament. After falling to Cartersville on Friday, Pickens looked to secure 3rd in the region as they took on the Bruins of Northwest Whitfield.
In the opening quarter, Northwest got out to a good start. Pickens came back a little by the end of the quarter as the Bruins held the lead, 31-15. In the 2nd, the Dragons got into a groove of their own and got back into it. Pickens outscored Northwest 20-17 in the frame to cut the Bruins lead to 48-35 going into the break.
In the 3rd, Northwest was able to capitalize on some opprotunities and stretch out their lead on the Dragons. The Bruins went on to outscore Pickens 21-12, to bring their lead to 69-47, going to the 4th and final quarter. In the 4th, Northwest capped off the win with a 23-12 run and take this one, 92-57. Northwest Whitfield will now be the #3 seed for 7-AAAA and will travel to face Lithonia in the 1st round of the 4A tournament next week.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Holden Roop: 26 pts, 4 asts, 2 rebs, & 2 stls (Averaged 24 pts, 5.3 asts, 3 rebs, & 2.5 stls during the tournament)
Avery Luke: 6 pts, 3 asts, 8 rebs, & 1 stl (Averaged 5.8 pts, 4 rebs, & 1.5 stls during the tournament)
Blake Gorth: 6 pts, & 5 rebs
Trent Rizoti: 5 pts, 7 rebs, & 1 stl (Averaged 9.5 pts, & 7 rebs during the tournament)
Walker Lawrence: 5 pts, & 2 rebs
Sam Davis: 4 pts, 3 asts, 2 rebs, & 1 blk
Joseph Gossett: 4 pts, 2 rebs & 1 stl
Tyler Garner: 4 pts, & 3 rebs (Averaged 7.5 pts, & 7.5 rebs during the tournament)
DJ Walden: 2 pts, 1 ast, & 3 rebs
Seth Bishop: 2 pts, 1 ast, & 2 rebs
Pickens will now enter the 4A state tournament as the #4 seed from 7-AAAA and will travel to take on the #1 seed out of 6-AAAA Grady on Wednesday at 7 p.m.
Dragons To Face Northwest Whitfield For 3rd Place
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports February 13, 2016
Last night, the PHS Dragons varsity basketball team traveled once again to Southeast Whitfield for the 7-AAAA Region Tournament. This time, Pickens faced the #1 seeded Canes of Cartersville for a shot at a region championship, and a home state game in the 1st round.
In the opening quarter, things did not get off to a good start for the Dragons as Cartersville went on a 9-0 run. However, the offense picked up for Pickens as they went on a run of their own, even taking the lead during the run. A 14-5 run for the Dragons tied things up at 14 as we went to the 2nd. In the 2nd, both teams went back and forth. The Canes pulled away a bit by the end of the quarter to take a 34-26 lead into the break.
In the 3rd, the ball game was still up in the air. Cartersville outscored 18-16 to take a 52-42 lead into the 4th and final quarter. In the 4th, the Canes were able to close things out using a 23-13 quarter run to get the win, 75-55. With the win, Cartersville will now face #3 seed Heritage for the region title today at 7:30.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Holden Roop: 20 points, 4 assists, 2 rebounds, & 2 steals
Trent Rizoti: 10 points, & 6 rebounds
Tyler Garner: 8 points, 1 assist, 8 rebounds, & 2 steals
Avery Luke: 8 points, 1 assist, 2 rebounds, & 1 steal
With the loss, the Dragons will now face the #2 seeded Northwest Whitfield this afternoon for 3rd place at 4:30. 7-AAAA is facing 6-AAAA in the first round of the state tournament. Depending on the 6-AAAA region championship game, and the outcome of the Dragons game today, Pickens will either be traveling to play Lithonia or Grady in the opening round.
Dragons Upset Raiders Make State Tournament For The 6th Time
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports February 12, 2016
After getting past their 515, rival, the Gilmer Bobcats earlier in the day, the PHS Dragons varsity basketball team looked to earn a 4A State Tournament berth. It would not be easy as they had to battle the hosting school, the Southeast Whitfield Raiders for that bid.
Pickens got momentum early as Joseph Gossett, nailed 2 of his 3’s on the night back to back. After a back and forth opening frame, the Dragons led things, 24-20. In the 2nd, Pickens continued it’s scoring ways. Outscoring the Raiders 13-11, the Dragons took a 37-31 lead into the break.
In the 3rd, Pickens stretched out their lead even more. A 21-13 quarter, gave the Dragons a 58-44 advantage over Southeast heading to the 4th and final quarter. In the 4th, Pickens exploded for 29 points. The Raiders poured it in as well, scoring 34 in the quarter. The Dragons were able to hit timely buckets and win the free throw game to take this one, 87-78. The win gives Pickens it’s 6th State Tournament berth in 60 years.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Holden Roop: 36 points, 8 assists, 5 rebounds, & 3 steals
Joseph Gossett: 15 points, 4 assists, 2 rebounds, & 3 steals
Tyler Garner: 12 points, 2 assists, & 7 rebounds
Trent Rizoti: 11 points, 3 assists, & 7 rebounds
Blake Gorth: 8 points, 1 rebound, & 1 steal
Avery Luke: 5 points, 3 rebounds, & 2 steals
The Dragons will have little time to rest, as they will be back at Southeast Whitfield later tonight for the semifinals of the 7-AAAA Region Tournament. Pickens will be facing the #1 seeded Purple Hurricanes of Cartersville. Winner will play for a region championship tomorrow, and earn a home game in the first round of the 4A State Tournament. Tip off set for 8:30 p.m.
Dragons Defeat Bobcats For The Fourth Time This Season
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports February 12, 2016
Yesterday, the PHS Dragons varsity basketball team traveled to Southeast Whitfield looking to do something practically unheard of: win two games in one day to make it to the state tournament.
Due to the snow storm, Games were pushed back two days. Forcing four boys teams, (Pickens, Gilmer, Ridgeland, & LaFayette), the challenge of possibly playing two games in one day. For Pickens to get to that second game, they had to get past a familiar foe, the Gilmer Bobcats.
In the opening quarter, Pickens struggled getting things going as Gilmer raced out to an eight-point lead going to the second, 20-12. In the second quarter, the Dragons were able to outscore the Bobcats 14-10. Gilmer still held a 30-26 lead heading into halftime.
In the third, Pickens turned the intensity up on offense and defense. The Dragons outscored the Bobcats in the quarter, 14-5, to take a 40-35 lead going to the fourth and final quarter. In the fourth, both teams went back and forth trading bucket after bucket, Pickens was able to hold off Gilmer late, and come away with the win, 62-55. With that win, the Dragons now had to focus on their next opponent, the #4 seed in the tournament, and host school, Southeast Whitfield.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Tyler Garner: 16 points, three assists, 12 rebounds and four steals
Holden Roop: 14 points, six assists, three rebounds and three steals
Trent Rizoti: 12 points, one assist, eight rebounds and one steal
Blake Gorth: Eight points, two rebounds and one steal
Avery Luke: Four points, three rebounds and two steals
Walker Lawrence: Four points and one steal
Sam Davis: Two points, four assists, two rebounds, two steals and one block