Earlier tonight, the PHS Dragons varsity basketball team hosted the Ramblers of LaFayette in a region 7-AAAA game. This game also marked the first true home game of the season for the Dragons. Pickens came into the game looking to go above .500 for the first time this season and to start off region play with a win.

In the 1st quarter, things got off to a slow start for the Dragons. Pickens picked things up a bit by the end of the quarter, but found themselves down 17-9 heading to the 2nd. LaFayette was able to increase it’s lead by one going to the break with a 19-18 quarter run, The Ramblers took a halftime lead of 36-27.

Again in the 3rd, LaFayette saw a small increase in their lead as they were able to outscore the Dragons 13-10 to take a 49-37 lead into the 4th and final quarter. In the 4th, Pickens finally got some momentum. After Being down as many as 14 in the quarter, the Dragons cut it to single digits. Pickens used a 20-12 run in the frame but it would not be enough. The Ramblers were able to hit some key free throws and hold to win this one, 61-57.

Leading the way for the Dragons on the night were:

Holden Roop: 19 points, 6 assists, 3 rebounds, & 2 steals

Trent Rizoti, 13 points, & 7 rebounds

Joseph Gossett, 11 points, & 4 assists

Tyler Garner: 9 points, 1 assist, 4 rebounds, & 2 steals

The Dragons scheduled game on Friday at home against Cartersville has been rescheduled to the 18th due to the football State semi-final being played at Cartersville on that same night. The Dragons next game will be on the road next Tuesday as they take on the Generals of Heritage. Tip off scheduled for 7:30 p.m.