Earlier this evening, the PHS Dragons varsity basketball team played host to the Raiders of Southeast Whitfield in region play. The Dragons, were looking to get their first win in region 7-AAAA play this season.

In the 1st, Pickens got off to a a good start. They led the Raiders 15-12 going to the 2nd. In the 2nd, The Dragons added to their lead over Southeast Whitfield by winning the quarter, 13-10, to take a 28-22 advantage into the half.

In the 3rd, the Raiders got back into the game by outscoring Pickens 19-15. The Dragons however, still held the lead, 43-41 going to the 4th and final quarter. In the 4th, Holden Roop hit two key free throws and Blake Gorth laid in a clutch bucket to give the Dragons a 3 point lead. Pickens had a crucial defensive stand in the closing seconds to get a hard fought win, 65-62.

Leading the way for the Dragons were:

Trent Rizoti: 20 points, 2 assists, 6 rebounds, & 1 steal

Holden Roop: 17 points, 7 assists, 2 rebounds, & 1 steal (All in the 2nd half)

Tyler Garner: 7 points, 2 assists, 6 rebounds, & 2 blocks

DJ Walden: 7 points, & 2 rebounds

Blake Gorth had 6 points, 1 assist, 3 rebounds, & 1 steal, Avery Luke had 4 points, 1 assist, & 1 rebound, Joseph Gossett had 2 points, 2 assists, & 1 rebound, & Walker Lawrence chipped in 2 points.

The Dragons will look to continue their good play as they will travel to Rossville, Ga. to take on the Ridgeland Panthers on Friday in another 7-AAAA region game. Tip off scheduled for 7:30 p.m.