Last night, the PHS Dragons varsity basketball team headed down to Gainesville to take on the War Eagles of Chestatee in the season opener for the 2017-18 season. This one had a little of everything you want in sports. Excitement, drama, great plays.

In the 1st quarter, Chestatee got out to a quick lead, & built it up prior to the end of the frame. Heading to the 2nd, the War Eagles held a 21-8 lead after one. In the 2nd, Pickens got things going, and made a massive run. The Dragons, outscored Chestatee in the 2nd quarter, 25-16, to trim the War Eagle lead to 37-33, going into halftime.

In the 3rd, the Dragons kept the momentum built from the 2nd quarter, and used it to take the lead from Chestatee after a 26-19 quarter run. Going to the 4th, Pickens led the War Eagles, 59-56. In the 4th, the two teams took turns with the lead. Several players would foul out for both teams, & a couple of technicals were handed out as well. Chestatee would use a 26-21 run, & several late free throws to get the win, 85-77.

Leading the Dragons in points were:

Joseph Gossett: 26 (18 in the 2nd half)

Seth Bishop: 19

Keinyuan Hooks: 14

Pickens, will now look forward to the annual Thanksgiving Tip-Off Tournament that is starting on Saturday, & will be held in Ellijay this year. The tournament features Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin, & Hiwassee Dam. The Dragons, will start the tournament off with their rival, the Gilmer Bobcats on Saturday at 4:30 pm.