Dragons pour in 93 points, advance to State Tournament
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports February 16, 2021
Pickens, County Ga — The second season started tonight as the Pickens Dragons welcomed the Southeast Whitfield Raiders to the Dragons Den for the first round of the 7-AAAA Region Tournament. The winner, punched their ticket to the 4A State Tournament and clinched a spot in the Region Semi-finals on Thursday. The Dragons, came in as the #3 seed in the tournament, while the Raiders came in as the #6 seed. In what was a total team effort, the Dragons came away with a 93-44 win.
Early in the first quarter, the Dragons jumped out to a 4-0 lead after buckets from Luke Rogers and Owen Moss. The Raiders, were able to tie things up after a free throw and three pointer. Pickens then went on a 16-0 run to make it 20-4. The Dragons got buckets from Tucker Lowe, Jaden Stewart, and Moss during the run. The two teams traded buckets to end the first quarter as the Dragons took a 25-10 lead to the second quarter.
The Dragons played intense defense on Tuesday
Early in the second quarter, A three pointer by Stewart and a free throw from Noah Sutton got the scoring going for the Dragons as they led it, 29-10. After a bucket by the Raiders, Sutton hit another free throw, made a bucket, Moss made a bucket, and Ean Goodwin made two free throws to make it 36-12. A bucket by Southeast Whitfield stopped the 7-0 run and made it 36-14. Pickens then went on a 10-0 run to make it 46-14. Goodwin, Lowe, Caleb Bryant, and Collin Kellogg all contributed to the run. The Raiders, made a bucket just before the end of the first half to make it 46-16 Dragons going to the break.
Dragons with the ball on offense
It was the Noah Sutton Show in the third quarter of this one. Sutton, got the scoring started with a 4-0 run to make it 50-16. After a free throw by the Raiders, Sutton hit a pair of free throws to make it 52-17. Sutton would then go on to make another bucket and a free throw to make it 55-19. All in all, Sutton scored 15 of the Dragons 36 third quarter points as Pickens took an 82-34 lead into the fourth.
Noah Sutton with 15 points in the 3rd
The second unit for the Dragons took over in the fourth quarter as they helped close this one out by outscoring the Raiders 11-10 in the frame. Final in Jasper, Pickens 93, Southeast Whitfield 44.
Dragons Leading Scorers:
Noah Sutton: 19 points
Ean Goodwin: 18 points
Tucker Lowe: 17 points
Jaden Stewart: 14 points
Owen Moss: 8 points
The Dragons, have now secured a spot in the 4A State Tournament. They advance to the 7-AAAA Region Tournament Semi-Finals where they will face the #2 seed Heritage Generals on Thursday at 5:30 pm. The game will be played at Northwest Whitfield. The Pickens Dragonettes, will follow the Dragons on Thursday as they take on the #4 seed Heritage Lady Generals in the second girls semi-final game. That one is set to tip off at 7 pm.
Dragons split with Bruins, finish region schedule at 8-4
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports February 10, 2021
Pickens County, Ga — After the Dragonettes picked up a win over the Lady Bruins, the Pickens Dragons (12-11, 8-4) looked to complete the varsity sweep as they welcomed the Northwest Whitfield Bruins (11-8, 5-6) to the Dragons Den. These two teams first played on January 22nd with the Bruins picking up a 71-62 win. The Dragons, came into the game winners of three straight, including two in region play. The Dragons, led the whole way through in this one as they claimed a 66-54 victory.
Northwest Whitfield got things going to start the ball game as they hit a three pointer to take an early 3-0 lead. Pickens came back with a three pointer from Tucker Lowe, to tie things up. That three pointer for the Dragons started what would end up being a 10-0 run as Owen Moss had 5 of the 10 points and Noah Sutton had the other 2. The Bruins, countered that 10-0 run with a 5-0 run as they hit a three pointer and a two pointer to make it 10-8. A bucket by Luke Rogers, increased the lead for the Dragons to 12-8. After a pair of free throws from Northwest Whitfield, Pickens went on a 6-0 run as Lowe hit another three, and Will Roliand banked in a three at the buzzer to end the first quarter. Going to the second, the Dragons led the Bruins, 18-10.
Dragons in-bounding the ball
Lowe started the second quarter hitting his third three pointer of the first half. After Northwest Whitfield made a bucket, Moss hit his second three of the first half to give the Dragons 24-12 lead. A 5-0 run by the Bruins cut the lead down to 24-17. Sutton put an end to that run with a bucket to make it 26-17. Northwest Whitfield came back with a bucket to make it 26-19. Pickens then went on a 5-0 run as Rogers hit a bucket and Jaden Stewart hit a three to male it 31-19. After a free throw from the Bruins, Moss made a free throw, and Ean Goodwin made a bucket as the Dragoons took a 34-20 lead into the half.
Dragons working on the defensive end
Northwest Whitfield started the second half with a bucket to make it 34-22. The Dragons went on a 4-0 run as Moss and Rogers hit back to back buckets to make it 38-22. After a three pointer by the Bruins, and a free throw make by Lowe, Northwest Whitfield went on a 5-0 run to make it 39-30 Pickens. Sutton, again put an end to the Bruin run with a bucket. Lowe hit two free throws to make it 43-30. After a bucket by Northwest Whitfield, Moss and Rogers again teamed up for a 4-0 run to make it 47-32. The Bruins then went on a 7-0 run to cut the Dragons lead to 47-39. A three pointer from Lowe ended the third quarter as Pickens took a 50-39 lead into the fourth.
Dragons on offense in the 2nd half
Northwest Whitfield, hit three free throws to start the fourth quarter to cut the lead to 50-42. The Dragons came back with a 4-0 run as Kadyn Hampton and Sutton hit back to back buckets. A 5-0 run by the Bruins cut the lead down to 54-47. Sutton, came up big for Pickens as he hit two free throws, then hit a bucket to make it 58-47. After a free throw by Northwest Whitfield, great rebounding and hustle plays led to a 6-0 run from Pickens as Sutton, Lowe, and Hampton all scored. Both teams then traded buckets as the Dragons led 66-50. The Bruins went on a 4-0 run to end the game as Pickens came away with the win, 66-54.
7-AAAA Boys Basketball Region Standings:
*believed region tournament standings
Cedartown: 10-9 (9-3) #1 seed
Heritage: 14-7 (9-3) #2 seed
*Pickens: 12-11 (8-4) #3 seed
*Central-Caroll: 17-8 (8-4) #4 seed
Northwest Whitfield: 11-8 (5-6) #5 seed
Southeast Whitfield: 4-17 (1-10)
Ridgeland: 5-16 (1-11)
At this time, the Dragons do not have any other regular season games scheduled before the region tournament. We will definitely keep everyone informed should they choose to add another game.
Stewart drops 18 as Dragons sweep Bulldogs
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports February 3, 2021
Pickens, County Ga — After picking up a big win last Thursday against the Southeast Whitfield Raiders, the Pickens Dragons welcomed another region foe to the Dragons Den in the form of the Cedartown Bulldogs. In their previous meeting on January 8th, the Dragons took home a 54-41 win. Coming into the game, the Bulldogs held the 2nd spot in the 7-AAAA standings at 8-2, while Pickens came in as the 3rd place team at 6-4. Aided by a breakout game from Sophomore Jaden Stewart, the Dragons came away with a 49-40 win.
The two sides traded buckets to begin the ball game as Cedartown took an early 4-2 lead. Noah Sutton & Tucker Lowe hit back to back three pointers for the Dragons, to put them up 8-4. After a bucket by the Bulldogs, Pickens went on an 8-0 run to stretch the lead out to 16-6. 6 of those points came from two three pointers from Stewart. After a quick 4-0 run by Cedartown, the Dragons countered with a 5-0 run to end the quarter as Ean Goodwin got a tip in bucket and Stewart hit his third three of the quarter. Going to the second, Pickens led the Bulldogs, 21-10.
Dragons found success early on offense
To start the second quarter, the Bulldogs went on an 8-0 run to cut the Dragons lead down to 21-18. Stewart and Luke Rogers hit back to back buckets for Pickens to increase the lead to 25-18. After a bucket by Cedartown and the two teams hitting a free throw each, Stewart nailed his fourth three pointer of the first half. The Bulldogs got a late bucket just before the end of the first half as the Dragons took a 29-23 lead into the break.
The Dragons played aggressive defense
After Cedartown hit a bucket to start the third quarter making it a four point game, Stewart kept his hot shooting going by hitting his fifth three pointer of the night. After the two teams traded free throws, the Bulldogs connected on a bucket to male it 33-29 Dragons. Pickens countered with a 6-0 run getting buckets from Owen Moss, Goodwin, and Stewart to make it 38-29. After a bucket, a free throw, and two technical free throws, all from Lowe, the Dragons took a 44-32 lead into the fourth.
Sophomore Jaden Stewart had a big night
In the fourth quarter, the Bulldogs would outscore Pickens 8-5, but the Dragons were able to hold on and pick up a big region win, 49-40. With the win, the Dragons sweep the season series from Cedartown and stay in third place in the region standings by themselves.
7-AAAA Boys Basketball Standings:
Heritage: 14-6 (9-2)
Cedartown: 9-9 (8-3)
Pickens: 10-11 (7-4)
Central-Carroll: 15-8 (6-4)
Northwest Whitfield: 11-7 (5-5)
Ridgeland: 5-13 (1-9)
Southeast Whitfield: 4-17 (1:10)
On Thursday, the Dragons will be on the road as they head to Rome to take on the Unity Christian Lions in non-region action. Unity Christian, is out of the GAPPS 1-A North region. They are 11-9 overall and 6-1 in their conference. Tip off is set for 6:30 pm.
Dragons pick up huge region win against Southeast Whitfield
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports January 29, 2021
Jasper, Ga — On Thursday, January 28th, the Pickens Dragons (9-11, 6-4) welcomed the Southeast Whitfield Raiders (4-17, 1-10) to the Dragons Den for a big time 7-AAAA region game. Coming into the game, the Dragons were tied in the region standings with Northwest Whitfield for third. the Raiders, won their first region game of the season on Tuesday against Ridgeland. With this being the only region game of the day, a win by the Dragons would put them in third place all by themselves. In what may have been their most complete game of the season, Pickens came away with a 78-31 win over the Raiders.
In the first quarter, Southeast Whitfield got the games first bucket. Pickens, followed that with a 7-0 run aided by 4 points from Noah Sutton and three points from Tucker Lowe. The Dragons built up a 10 point lead at one time in the opening quarter. Pickens took a 19-11 lead over the Raiders going to the second.
Dragons with the ball early on
In the second quarter, the Dragons defense helped lead to plenty of offense as they scored 25 points in the quarter while allowing 11 points. Pickens, got scoring from 7 different players in the second quarter as they took a 44-22 lead over Southeast Whitfield into the half.
The Dragon defense was everywhere on Thursday
In the third quarter, the Dragons started off the second half with an 8-0 run. Lowe, Owen Moss, Luke Rogers, and Will Roland all scored during the run. The Raiders got a bucket to end the run, but that would be the only points they would score in the quarter. Pickens, went on a 12-0 run to end the third quarter as they stretched out their lead to 64-24 going to the fourth.
Collin Kellogg goes in for the layup
In the fourth quarter, the Dragons doubled up the Raiders, 14-7 in the frame to seal a much needed win, 78-31. 11 Dragons got their names in the score book on Thursday.
Dragons leading scorers:
Tucker Lowe: 22 points
Caleb Bryant: 10 points
Ean Goodwin: 8 points
Jaden Stewart: 8 points
Noah Sutton: 6 points
7-AAAA Boys Basketball Standings:
Heritage: 13-5 (9-1)
Cedartown: 8-8 (7-2)
Pickens: 9-11 (6-4)
Northwest Whitfield: 11-6 (5-4)
Central-Carroll: 13-8 (4-4)
Ridgeland: 5-11 (1-8)
Southeast Whitfield: 4-17 (1-10)
The Dragons, will be back in action on Tuesday as they host the Cedartown Bulldogs in another critical 7-AAAA region game. The Nettes and Lady Bulldogs will get things going at 6 pm and the Dragons and Bulldogs will follow.
Dragons head into region tournament on a high note
PHS Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports January 29, 2020
The Pickens Dragons (17-8, 7-5) came into their game last night against the Southeast Whitfield Raiders (0-25, 0-12) looking to create some big momentum after falling in their previous three games. Create momentum is exactly what the Dragons did as they took home the win, 86-51.
In the first quarter, the Dragons got off to a hot start with threes by Owen Moss, Tucker Lowe, and Will Roland to go up 9-1. The rest of the quarter, the Raiders outscored Pickens 16-11, but the Dragons held the lead 20-17 going to the second quarter.
Dragons on offense in the 1st quarter
In the second quarter, after Southeast Whitfield cut the Dragon lead down to 22-21, Pickens went on an 8-0 run to make it 30-21. Later in the quarter, the Dragons went on a 7-0 run courtesy of threes by Luke Rogers, Ean Goodwin, and a free throw by Noah Sutton to make it 37-22. Pickens outscored the Raiders 12-7 for the remainder of the frame to take a 49-29 lead into the half.
Pickens trapping on defense
The third quarter saw the Dragons continue to extend their lead over the Raiders getting buckets from Moss, Lowe, Sutton, Rogers, Roland, and Daniel Tetterton. Outscoring Southeast Whitfield 28-14 in the frame, Pickens took a 77-43 lead into the fourth.
Dragons in-bounding the ball in the fourth quarter
In the fourth, the Dragons closed the game by outscoring the Raiders 9-8. Four of those nine points came from Hays Pickett. Pickens picked up a much needed win, 86-51.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Owen Moss: 19 points (five threes made)
Noah Moss: 18 points
Tucker Lowe: 16 points (four threes) 11 assists
Will Roland: 9 points
Hays Pickett: 7 points
Pickens, finishes the regular season 17-8 overall and 7-5 in region play. The Dragons, will be the 3rd seed in next week’s 6-AAAA region tournament and take on the 6th seeded Ridgeland Panthers in the 1st round on Tuesday. The game will be played at Southeast Whitfield and has a tip off time of 6 pm.
Dragons fall in another tough region game
PHS Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports January 25, 2020
The Pickens Dragons (16-7, 6-5) took to the road on Friday night to take on the Northwest Whitfield Bruins in a 6-AAAA region contest. Coming into the game, the Bruins held the 2nd seed, while the Dragons occupied the 3rd seed. Northwest Whitfield, came away with the win, 75-53.
In the first quarter, the Bruins came out on a 9-0 run to start the game. Pickens, got things going after that with buckets by Owen Moss, Noah Sutton, and a three pointer by Tucker Lowe to cut it to 9-7. A Moss jumper got the Dragons within one at 12-11. Northwest Whitfield made a bucket to close the quarter to take a 14-11 lead into the second.
Dragons trying to get the offense going
Early in the second quarter, a couple of Will Roland buckets cut the Bruins lead down to three on a couple of occasions. After a three by Northwest Whitfield, Luke Rogers cut it to 21-17 with a bucket. After both teams traded buckets, Northwest Whitfield went on a 4-0 run to make it 32-21 at the half.
Pickens playing defense in the second half
Pickens opened up the second half with a 4-0 run to cut the Bruins lead to 32-25. Northwest Whitfield responded with a 10-0 run to make it 42-25. A free throw by Lowe and buckets by Ean Goodwin and Sutton made it 42-30. After trading buckets for a bit, the Bruins closed the third with a 7-0 run to make it 55-35 going to the fourth.
Owen Moss driving in the lane
The fourth quarter, was pretty close scoring wise as the Dragons got a good run in the middle of the frame thanks to Lowe, Sutton, and Rogers. Northwest Whitfield came away with this one, 75-53.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Noah Sutton: 15 points
Tucker Lowe: 11 points
Luke Rogers: 8 points
Will Roland: 7 points
6-AAAA Boys Standings:
Lafayette: 20-2 (11-0)
Northwest Whitfield: 14-10 (9-2)
Pickens: 16-7 (6-5)
Heritage: 10-14 (6-6)
Gilmer: 9-9 (5-6)
Ridgeland: 6-16 (2-9)
Southeast Whitfield: 0-23 (0-11)
Pickens, will be back at it on Saturday afternoon as they head to Adairsville to take on the Tigers in non-region play. Tip off for this one is set for 5:30 pm.
Pickens Dragons fall to rival Gilmer Bobcats
PHS Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports January 22, 2020
The Pickens Dragons (16-6, 6-4) hosted the Gilmer Bobcats (9-8, 5-5) in 6-AAAA play for the final time for a while on Tuesday night. The first region match up saw Pickens come away winners after a pair of last second free throws. Gilmer, had other plans for this game as they picked up a 68-47 win.
In the first quarter, the Bobcats got off to a fast start with back to back three pointers to take a 6-0 lead. Owen Moss hit a jumper to make it 6-2, then Tucker Lowe hit a free throw to make it 6-3. Gilmer hit a jumper to make it 8-3, then Noah Sutton hit back to back shots to make it 8-7 Bobcats. From then on Gilmer outscored the Dragons 12-4 to take a 20-11 lead going to the second.
Owen Moss looking to inbound the ball for Pickens
The second quarter, saw the Bobcats break things open a bit as they began the frame with an 8-0 run to make it 28-11. The Dragons, outscored Gilmer 6-5 the rest of the quarter, however the Bobcats were able to take a 33-17 lead into the break.
Gilmer running a play in the second quarter
In the third quarter, Gilmer opened up the frame with a three pointer to make it 36-17. After trading a couple of buckets and free throws, the Dragons went on a 7-0 run after buckets by Ean Goodwin, Luke Rogers, and a three pointer by Lowe to cut the Bobcat lead down to 39-27. Gilmer ended that run with an 8-0 run to make it 47-27. Pickens went on a 4-0 run to close the quarter as the Bobcats took a 47-31 lead into the fourth.
Tucker Lowe making a move into the lane
The Dragons, continued the run they started at the end of the third quarter with three free throws to start the fourth to make it 47-34. The Bobcats used a 5-0 run to make it 52-34. Gilmer, came away with the win 68-47 and the region season split.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Tucker Lowe: 14 points
Noah Sutton: 13 points
Luke Rogers: 8 points
Ean Goodwin: 6 points
Leading the way for the Bobcats were:
Braddy Jenkins: 28 points
Brady Sanford: 14 points
Cade Carter: 13 points
Lewis Mulkey: 8 points
6-AAAA Boys Standings
Lafayetter: 19-2 (10-0)
Northwest Whitfield: 12-10 (8-2)
Pickens: 16-6 (6-4)
Gilmer: 9-8 (5-5)
Heritage: 9-14 (5-6)
Ridgeland: 6-16 (2-9)
Southeast Whitfield: 0-22 (0-10)
Pickens, will head to Northwest Whitfield on Friday to take on the Bruins in 6-AAAA action. A win for the Dragons would help create a little separation between them and Gilmer as you see in the standings above. Pickens does have sweeps of Heritage and Ridgeland on their side whereas Gilmer has been swept by Heritage. Tip off for the Dragons and Bruins is set for 8:30 pm.
Dragons get road win, host Lafayette on Friday
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports January 14, 2020
On Monday, Jan. 13, the Pickens Dragons (15-4, 6-2 Region 6-4A) traveled to Dalton to take on Morris Innovative (1-7) in non-region competition. This game took place inside the old Dalton High School gym, which is now the gym for City Park Elementary. The Dragons came away with an 85-16 victory.
In the first quarter, the Dragons got on the board first with a pair of baskets from Ean Goodwin and Will Roland. Morris Innovative came back with a made shot of their own from Jose Cru, to make it 4-2. Pickens then went on an 11-0 run sparked by seven points from Luke Rogers. Marco Andres stopped the Dragons run with a made basket to make it 15-4. The Dragons then went on a 5-0 run highlighted by made shots from Roland and Daniel Tetterton and a free throw from Aidan Sanchez. Cruz scored just before the end of the quarter to make it 20-6 Dragons.
To start the second quarter, Pickens got made shots from Sanchez, D. Tetterton, and Whit Pierce to make it 26-6. Cruz again came back with a 3-pointer to make it 26-9. The Dragons got scoring from Clay Shoffer, Zach Tetterton, and Tucker Lowe to go along with Pierce, Rogers, Roland, and D. Tetterton. At the half, Pickens led, 52-9.
In the third, the Dragons began the half with a 9-0 run. Cruz got Morris Innovative on the board in the second half with a shot. Pickens closed the quarter on a 14-0 run to take 75-11 lead into the fourth.
In the fourth, Sanchez got things going for Pickens with a 4-0 run. Abdiel Negron stopped the run with a nice shot and then soon after Cruz hit another long 3-pointer. The Dragons came away with an 85-16 win.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Tucker Lowe: 18 points
Luke Rogers: 14 points
Daniel Tetterton: 13 points
Will Roland: eight points
Aidan Sanchez: seven points
On Friday, Jan. 17, Pickens will welcome the Lafayette Ramblers to the Dragons Den for a big time region match up. The Ramblers currently sit atop the 6-4A standings at 7-0, while the Dragons are in third place at 6-2. Frida, will also be recognized as Senior Night. Tip off is set for 8:30 p.m.
Dragons sweep Panthers after close game
PHS Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports January 11, 2020
The Pickens Dragons (14-4, 6-2) got a big win on Tuesday against Heritage on the road. Last night, they looked to treat the home crowd in the Dragons Den to another win when they took on the Ridgeland Panthers (5-13, 1-7) in a 6-AAAA match up. The last meeting between these two teams came down to the wire in Rossville, with the Dragons picking up the win. This one, would be tightly played as well.
Pickens, got off to a 7-0 start in the first quarter getting four points from Owen Moss, two points from Noah Sutton, and a free throw from Luke Rogers. The Panthers, countered that 7-0 run with a 7-0 run themselves to tie things up. The two teams traded buckets for the rest of the quarter with the Dragons getting a late bucket from Moss to take a 13-11 lead into the second.
Dragons looking for a shot on offense
In the second quarter, the game remained close with both the Dragons and Panthers taking turns holding slim leads. Pickens, went on a 7-0 run in the middle of the with a three by Tucker Lowe, and buckets from Sutton and Moss to take a 27-20 lead. Ridgeland closed the half on a 5-2 run as Pickens took a 29-25 lead into the break.
Dragons defending the drive inside
In the third, the Dragons started the quarter off with an 8-0 run fueled by five quick points by Ean Goodwin. Pickens, went on to hold a lead as high as 14 in the third. The Panthers, went on a 5-0 run to end the third and cut the Dragons lead down to 47-39 going to the fourth.
Dragons looking to in-bound the ball
In the fourth, after two free throws from Sutton gave Pickens a 49-39 lead, Ridgeland made their move. Using an 11-0 run, the Panthers took a 50-49 lead. The Dragons counter punched and went on a 9-0 run with help from Sutton, Lowe, and Will Roland to put Pickens back up 58-50. Pickens, held on and got the win over the Panthers, 59-55.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Noah Sutton: 22 points
Tucker Lowe: 16 points
Owen Moss: 12 points
Ean Goodwin: 5 points
6-AAAA Boys Basketball Standings:
Lafayette: 16-2 (7-0)
Northwest Whitfield: 10-8 (7-1)
Pickens: 14-4 (6-2)
Gilmer: 7-7 (3-4)
Heritage: 7-12 (3-5)
Ridgeland: 5-13 (1-7)
Southeast Whitfield: 0-19 (0-8)
Pickens, will be on the road today as they take on the Adairsville Tigers in non-region action. Tip off is set for 7:30 pm.
Dragons fall to 7-A lassiter, prepare for region play
PHS Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports December 31, 2019
The PHS Dragons (11-3, 3-1) looked to replicate what their classmates on the Dragonettes did and ring in the new year with a win to close out 2019. The Dragons, hosted the Lassiter Trojans (9-6, 0-2) for the final game of the Pickens Holiday Classic. Both teams came into the game having gone 1-1 so far in the round robin style tournament.
In the opening quarter, it was an early game of runs. Both teams went back and forth to begin the frame. Lassiter went on a 5-0 to take a 7-4 lead. The Trojans went on another 5-0 run later in the quarter to go up 16-8. The Dragons, went on a 4-0 run to close the first quarter and cut the Lassiter lead down to 16-12, going to the second.
Dragons working the ball on offense
The second quarter, was a tough one for Pickens. Nothing seemed to fall for them on a consistent basis, and Lassiter took advantage of the charity stripe. Of the 18 points the Trojans scored in the frame, 11 of those points came from the free throw line. Outscoring the Dragons 18-9 in the second, Lassiter took a 34-21 lead into the break.
Dragons looking for a stop on defense
The third quarter, was a defensive battle for the most part. The Trojans, barely outscored the Dragons 9-8, to take a 43-29 lead into the fourth and final quarter.
Dragons inbounding the ball
The fourth quarter, the Dragons tried to get back into it, but Lassiter kept their scoring pace up. The Trojans outscored Pickens 24-14 in the frame to get the win, 67-43.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Noah Sutton: 9 points
Luke Rogers: 8 points
Owen Moss: 7 points
Daniel Tetterton: 5 points
Ean Goodwin: 4 points
The Dragons, will be home on Friday as they begin 2020 with a region game against the Southeast Whitfield Raiders. Tip off is set for 8:30 pm.
Dragons hold off eagles in tournament opener
PHS Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports December 27, 2019
After the Nettes secured their win, the Pickens Dragons (11-1, 3-1) hosted the Excel Christian Academy Eagles (2-8, 1-1) for their day one match up in the Pickens Holiday Tournament. The last game for Pickens, was an emotionally thrilling win in Ellijay against Gilmer. That however, was ten days ago.
The first quarter saw the Dragons go on a 9-0 run to begin the ball game. Tucker Lowe started it off with a three pointer, then Noah Sutton scored six straight to spark the early run. The rest of the quarter, it was a tightly contested frame as both teams scored 11 points. Going to the second, Pickens led the Eagles, 20-11.
Noah Sutton attempting a layup
In the second quarter, the frame was mostly back and forth as both teams traded bucket for bucket. Both scored 13 points each, as Pickens kept their nine point lead over the Eagles at 33-24.
Dragons defending an Eagles inbound play
To start the third quarter, the Dragons went on a 6-0. Owen Moss & Ean Goodwin got things going for Pickens and led them on that run. The Dragons again went on another run in the middle of the quarter. This time, it was a 7-0 run involving Goodwin, Lowe, and Sutton. Pickens, outscored Excel Christian 22-15 in the third, to take a 55-39 lead into the fourth.
Tucker Lowe driving in for a layup
In the fourth quarter, the Eagles made a run. Down 16 to start the frame, Excel Christian cut the Dragon lead down to 57-50 at one point. To the credit of the Dragons, they stayed calm, and outscored the Eagles 11-3 to close the game and pick up their 11th win of the season, 68-53.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Noah Sutton: 18 points
Tucker Lowe: 17 points
Owen Moss: 14 points (10 in the second half)
Luke Rogers: 8 points
Ean Goodwin: 6 points
Aidan Sanchez: 3 points
Tomorrow, the Dragons will be back on their home floor for day two of the Pickens Holiday Tournament when they take on the Sornoraville Phoenix. Tip off is set for 5:30 pm.
Comeback attempt falls short for dragons against bruins
PHS Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports January 5, 2020
After getting a much needed win on Friday against Southeast Whitfield, the Pickens Dragons (12-4, 4-2) looked to carry that momentum into their game against the Northwest Whitfield Lady Bruins (7-4, 5-1). As was the case in the girls game, this game had 2nd place in the region on the line with both teams at 4-1.
In the first quarter, both teams traded buckets as the Dragons got early buckets from Luke Rogers and Tucker Lowe. Northwest Whitfield went on a 5-0 run, to take a 9-4 lead. Ean Goodwin then nailed a three pointer to cut that lead down to 9-7. It would be a quarter of runs as the Bruins went on a 6-0 run, then Pickens would go on a 5-0 run. Going to the second, Northwest Whitfield held a 23-14 lead.
Dragons running a play on offense
In the second quarter, the Dragons kept trying to chip away before the half, but the Bruins seemed to have a counter for everything. Northwest Whitfield, outscored Pickens 16-11 in the frame, to take a 39-25 lead into the break.
Tucker Lowe attempting a three
In the third quarter, the Dragons cut the Bruins lead down to 10 after a bucket from Owen Moss. Northwest Whitfield, would go on a 9-0 run to stretch their lead out to 53-34. Pickens went on a 4-0 run to end the third as the Bruins took a 58-42 lead into the fourth.
Dragons defending Northwest Whitfield
In the fourth quarter, the Dragons tried to make a furious comeback. Down 20 at one point in the third, Pickens cut the lead down to 10. Pickens would get it down to single digits, but the Bruins held on to get the win, 71-62.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Luke Rogers: 15 points
Noah Sutton: 15 points
Tucker Lowe: 12 points
6-AAAA Boys Standings:
Lafayette: 14-2 (6-0)
Northwest Whitfield: 7-4 (5-1)
Pickens: 12-4 (4-2)
Heritage: 7-10 (3-3)
Gilmer: 6-7 (2-3)
Ridgeland: 4-11 (1-5)
Southeast Whitfield: 0-17 (0-6)
On Tuesday, the Dragons will be on the road as they take on the Heritage Generals. Third place will be on the line in this one. Earlier in the season, Pickens picked up a win over the Generals by a score of 52-45. Tip off for this one is set for 7:30 pm.
Moss’ late free throws help seal rivalry road win for the Dragons
PHS Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports December 18, 2019
The Pickens Dragons (10-1, 3-1) took the short drive up 515 last night to take on the Gilmer Bobcats in Ellijay for a big rivalry game. Both teams came into the game tied for fourth in 6-AAAA at 2-1.
In the opening quarter both teams traded buckets to begin the game with Cade Carter opening the scoring for Gilmer, and Tucker Lowe getting the first points for the Dragons. The Bobcats held a small, three-point lead for a time, but Pickens went on a 9-0 run to take the lead for the first time. Gilmer went on a 5-1 run to close the quarter, but the Dragons held the lead, 20-16.
In the second quarter, it was again back-and-forth throughout the frame. Aidan Sanchez brought the Pickens lead up to six with a pair of free throws early on. Brady Sanford went on a personal 5-0 run himself to cut the lead down to 22-21. From then on it was matching bucket for bucket. Gilmer did take a two-point lead two different times after buckets by Luke Wimpey, but a 6-0 run by the Dragons gave Pickens a 34-30 lead at the break.
In the third quarter, Gilmer got the upper hand. After tying things up at 35 after making a 5-1 run, the Bobcats used a 12-0 run to retake the lead. Gilmer outscored Pickens in the frame, 17-6, to take a 47-40 lead into the fourth.
The fourth quarter was exciting. Carter stepped up and knocked down two free throws to make it 58-55 Gilmer. With a little over three seconds left, the Bobcats fouled Lowe to send him to the line to shoot the one and one. Lowe made both to give the Bobcats a it 58-57 lead. On the ensuing inbounds play, the Bobcats tried to throw it deep. Owen Moss picked off the attempted pass, threw up a prayer, and was fouled with .5 seconds left. Moss hit the first one, missed the second one, but calmly knocked down the third free throw to give the Dragons the win, 59-58.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Tucker Lowe: 20 points
Owen Moss: 10 points
Noah Sutton: 10 points
Luke Rogers: 9 points
Ean Goodwin: 7 points
6-AAAA Region Standings
Lafayette: 4-0
Pickens: 3-1
NW Whitfield: 3-1
Gilmer: 2-2
Heritage: 2-3
Ridgeland: 1-4
SE Whitfield: 0-4
The Dragons are off until Dec. 27th when they host a Christmas Tournament featuring a wide variety of teams. Pickens will play the Excel Christian Academy Eagles on Friday, Dec. 27th, to start the three-day affair. Tip off scheduled for 5:30 p.m.
Dragons end skid with big region win
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports January 4, 2020
The Pickens Dragons (12-3, 4-1 Region 6-AAAA) ended 2019 on a tough note by dropping games to Sonoraville and Lassiter. On Friday night, Jan. 3, 2020, they looked to get back on track as they hosted the Southeast Whitfield Raiders (0-17, 0-6) in a region battle.
To start the first quarter, the Dragons went on an 8-0 run with three made shots from Noah Sutton and one from Ean Goodwin. The rest of the frame was back-and-forth as Pickens outscored Southeast Whitfield 8-7 to take a 16-7 lead going to the second quarter.
In the second quarter, after a pair of made free throws by the Raiders, Pickens went on another 8-0 run fueled by Sutton and Luke Rogers. Later in the quarter, the Dragons went on an 11-0 run with Sutton making a couple of shots, Whit Pierce making a shot, Tucker Lowe hitting a 3-pointer and a pair of free throws, and Aidan Sanchez hitting a free throw to cap off the run. Going into the half, Pickens led Southeast Whitfield, 36-13.
In the third quarter, Sutton and Goodwin led a 6-0 run for the Dragons to make it 42-13 early. Later in the third, Owen Moss went on a personal 6-0 run with two made shots and a pair of free throws. To close out the quarter, Sanchez connected on a layup to make it 55-17 Pickens going to the fourth quarter.
The fourth quarter was shortened but productive for the Dragons as Clay Shoffer made two made shots, Will Roland connected on a shot, Daniel Tetterton made a shot, Spencer Moody made a free throw, and Hayes Pickett made two shots. The final in this one was 68-22 to Pickens.
Leading the way for the Dragons were: Noah Sutton (22 points), Luke Rogers (10 points), Owen Moss (nine points), and Tucker Lowe (six points).
Pickens will be back on the court Saturday, Jan. 4, as the Northwest Whitfield Bruins come to Jasper for an afternoon tilt. Both teams are close in the region and this game will be crucial to the standings going forward. Tip-off is set for 4:30.
Dragons suffer tough first loss at Lafayette
PHS Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports December 14, 2019
After Pickens took the first three of the four match ups on the evening, the Dragons looked to make it a complete sweep as they took the floor against the Ramblers of Lafayette. Coming into the game, both teams were undefeated on the season with Pickens at 8-0 & Lafayette at 6-0. Both teams also came in tied atop the region standings at 2-0. This would be a good test for a much improved Dragons team.
In the first quarter, both teams really spent the majority of the frame going back and forth. Noah Sutton got the scoring going for the Dragons with a bucket to put them up 2-0. Lafayette tied it, then Owen Moss made a bucket to make it 4-2. The Ramblers then went on a 4-0 run, which was quickly halted by a Tucker Lowe three pointer. Lafayette went on another little run before Ean Goodwin would make a bucket. At the end of the 1st, the Ramblers led the Dragons, 17-11.
The 2nd quarter, would turn out to be a turning point in the overall scale of the game. Lafayette, went on an 8-0 run to start the frame before Sutton would connect on a layup. Later in the quarter, the Dragons went on a 4-0 run to try and cut the Rambler lead. Going to the half, Lafayette held a 40-21 advantage.
To start the 3rd, the Dragons came out with energy on offense and defense. Pickens, went on a 7-0 run to start the quarter & caused a couple of turnovers in the process. The Rambler lead was cut down to 13 at one point as the Dragons looked to get back into the game. Lafayette would go on a run themselves during the quarter to help maintain their lead. Pickens, did outscore the Ramblers in the 3rd, 13-12, but still trailed going to the 4th, 52-34.
In the 4th, the Dragons, kept playing with energy & toughness just trying to get something going. Pickens went on a 6-0 run at one point. Lafayette would end up coming away with the win, 68-46.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Tucker Lowe: 18 points
Noah Sutton: 15 points
Owen Moss: 7 points
6-AAAA Boys Region Standings:
Lafayette: 3-0
NW Whitfielld: 3-1
Pickens: 2-1
Gilmer: 2-1
Heritage: 1-3
Ridgeland: 1-3
SE Whitfield: 0-3
Pickens, will be back home this afternoon taking on the Gordon Central Warriors. The Dragons, are looking for a season sweep of the Warriors as they defeated them 74-33 on the road to begin the season. Tip off is set for 2:30 pm.
Dragons have three score double figures to sweep Gordon Central
PHS Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports December 14, 2019
After suffering their first loss of the season to Lafayette on the road the night before, the PHS Dragons varsity basketball team looked to get back to their winning ways as they hosted the Gordon Central Warriors in non-region action. In their first meeting, Pickens won in impressive fashion, 74-33.
The first quarter saw a very competitive, back and forth start to the game by both teams. Towards the end of the frame, the Dragons went on a 9-4 run to take a 24-14 lead going to the 2nd.
Will Roland going in for a layup
In the 2nd quarter, the Dragons were able to maintain, & build on their lead from the first quarter. Getting big buckets from the likes of Ean Goodwin, Luke Rogers, Tucker Lowe, Owen Moss, Noah Sutton, Zack Tetterton, and Aidan Sanchez. Pickens, went into the half holding a 46-28 lead over Gordon Central.
Dragons looking to double team a Warrior player
The third quarter, saw more of the same from the Dragons as Lowe, Moss, and Sutton took over. Pickens, outscored the Warriors 21-11, to take a 67-39 lead, going to the 4th.
Owen Moss looking to inbound the ball
The fourth quarter, was a wild one to say the least. Gordon Central, down 28 to start the quarter, went on an incredible run. The Warriors went on a 21-0 run. You read that right. A 21-0 run to cut the Dragon lead to 67-60. Pickens, finally got things going and finished the game on a 14-4 run of their own to take the win, 81-64.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Tucker Lowe: 20 points
Noah Sutton: 19 points
Owen Moss: 15 points
Luke Rogers: 9 points
Ean Goodwin: 7 points
Will Roland: 5 points
Pickens, will be in Ellijay on Tuesday evening to take on the Gilmer Bobcats in a key 6-AAAA region game. Both teams are tied at 2-1 in the region. Tip off, is set for 8:30 pm.