Dragons earn region win on Senior Night
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports January 18, 2023
Jasper, Ga — It was time for the boys game on Tuesday, January 17th between the Pickens Dragons and the West Hall Spartans. Much like the Nettes, the Dragons had gone through a tough stretch losing to Northwest Whitfield, close 1-point games to Sonoraville and White County, and then to Wesleyan. The Dragons, turned things around in the second quarter and never looked back as they picked a big 70-55 win over the Spartans.
In the first quarter, the Spartans got things going with a layup by Quintavous Reid to make it 2-0. Camden Dunn tied it up as he made a cut to the basket for the lay in. Isaiah Holder and Andrew Malin both hit a pair of free throws to give West Hall a 6-2 lead. Dunn picked up his second basket of the game to cut it to 6-4. Zach Stephens, extended the Spartan lead back to four with a bucket to make it 8-4. After Caleb Keith split a pair of free throws to cut it to 8-5, the two teams traded three point makes to give West Hall an 11-8 lead going to the second.
Dragons on offense against the Spartans
Stephens, hit a pair of free throws to begin the scoring in the second quarter to give the Spartans a 13-8 lead. Senior Jaden Stewart, picked up his first points of the game as he hit a three pointer to make it 13-11. After West Hall got a bucket from Owen Jenkins, and a pair of free throws from Malin, the Dragons went on a 7-0 run sparked by a basket by Stewart, and 5 straight points from James Tilley to give the Dragons their first lead at 18-17. That first lead was short lived as the Spartans got back to back three pointers from Ethan Clifford and Ian Pardue to make it 23-18.
The Dragons responded with a three pointer from Caleb Lanford, a bucket by Stewart, and another three by Tilley to give Pickens a 26-23 lead. A basket by Holder to cut it to one, Dodge Davis, went on a 4-0 run to close out the first half to give the Dragons a 30-25 lead going into the break.
Dragons on defense in the second quarter
To begin the second half, the Dragons went on a 7-0 run. Lanford, got the scoring started with a three, McCord Purdy, made a layup, then Senior Kadyn Hampton, picked up his first points with a bucket to make it 37-25. Malin, ended the run with a basket to make it 37-27 Pickens. Later on in the third, with the Dragons up 43-33, Lanford and Tilley teamed up to hit back to back three pointers to close out the quarter to make it 49-33 Pickens going to the fourth.
Dragons talking it over in the third
The Spartans, went on a 5-0 run to to begin the fourth quarter to make it 49-38. Hampton, ended the run with a bucket to make it 51-38. The two teams then traded baskets with the lead getting as high as 18 for the Dragons. Pickens, picked up a big win in terms of the region standings as they defeat the West Hall Spartans, 70-55.
Leading Scorers For The Dragons:
Caleb Lanford: 15 points
Camden Dunn: 14 points
Jaden Stewart: 11 points
James Tilley: 11 points
Kadyn Hampton: 6 points
Dodge Davis: 4 points
McCord Purdy: 4 points
Seth Cronic: 2 points
Parker Davis: 2 points
Caleb Keith: 1 point
The Dragons, head back on the road on Friday, January 20th as they make the short drive up to Ellijay to take on the Gilmer Bobcats. The in season series is tied at one a piece, with this last game being the most important. Pickens sits just ahead of Gilmer in the region standings. It should be an action packed game as are the majority of these games. Tip off set for 8:30.
Nettes pick up region win on Senior Night
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports January 18, 2023
Jasper, Ga — It was a rough week for the Pickens Dragonettes last week as they dropped three straight road games against Sonoraville, White County, and Wesleyan. On Tuesday, January 17th, they were back at home as they welcomed the West Hall Lady Spartans to Roy Cowart Court for a 7-AAA match up. It was also a reason to celebrate because it was also Senior Night. All three seniors had big nights as the Nettes got back on the winning track defeating the Lady Spartans 65-9.
The Nettes got off to a quick start in the first quarter as Senior Madison Powell began the scoring with a layup. Bella Hopkins then hit a three pointer, and Caroline Mullins made a pair of free throws to make it 7-0. Powell, got her second bucket of the quarter to make it 9-0 Nettes. After a bucket by Summer Orlick to put West Hall on the board, Pickens went on a 6-0 run getting baskets from Mullins and Hopkins to make it 15-2 going to the second.
Nettes on offense in the first quarter
The second quarter began with the Nettes continuing their run they ended the first quarter with as Mullins hit a pair of free throws, Hopkins, Emery Bryant, and Senior Adrienne Plumley all made buckets as all together it was a 14-0 run to make it 23-2. After Orlick got a crazy shot to fall, she converted the and-1 attempt to end the run and make it 23-5. Pickens, went on another 6-0 run as Plumley, Hopkins, and Brylee Deering made baskets to make it 29-5. Just before the end of the half, Xitlally Villeda split a pair of free throws to make it 29-6 Nettes going into the break.
Nettes played tough defense all game
To start the second half, Pickens went on a big run. The run started with Plumley who got her 5th and 6th point of the game. Then the Nettes would hit 4 straight three pointers as Emmie Moore, Mullins, and Emery Steinhauer, who hit two back to back. Emery’s sister Ellison, decided she wanted to get in on the act and she made a bucket for her first points of the game to make it 45-6. Cayla Radich, ended the Pickens run with a basket to make it 45-8. Pickens, got two free throws to end the third and it was 47-8 Nettes going to the fourth.
Nettes with the ball in the second half
A free throw by Mullins and a bucket by Emory Bryant got the fourth quarter started for Pickens as they went up, 50-8. After Orlick split a pair of free throws to make it 50-9, the rest of the shortened fourth quarter became the Madison Powell and Emma Gleason show. Senior Emma Gleason, got her first points of the game with a layup. Powell followed up with a bucket and a three pointer. Gleason, then scored the last six points of the game as the Nettes got back to their winning ways defeating the West Hall Lady Spartans, 65-9.
Leading Scorers for the Nettes:
Caroline Mullins: 14 points
Emma Gleason: 10 points
Bella Hopkins: 9 points
Madison Powell: 9 points
Adrienne Plumley: 6 points
Emery Steinhauer: 6 points
Emory Bryant: 4 points
Emmie Moore: 3 points
Ellison Steinhauer: 2 points
The Nettes, will be back in action on Friday as they head to Ellijay to take on the Gilmer Lady Cats in another 7-AAA game. Pickens, has already won the season series between their 515 rival, but will look to go for the sweep on the road. Tip off is set for 7 pm.
Late game heroics sends Dragons into playoffs as 3rd seed
PHS Football, Team FYN Sports November 5, 2022
Jasper, GA — It was the last regular season home game of the 2022 season as the Pickens Dragons welcomed the Wesleyan Wolves to Jasper for Senior Night. It was a first time ever meeting between these two teams, who had a lot to play for. A win for either team would secure the #3 seed in the upcoming State playoffs. In a game that was pretty much back and forth throughout, it was the Dragons that came up clutch to pick up the 20-13 win and the 3rd seed out of 7-AAA.
The Dragons, won the toss and elected to differ to the second half. The first possession for Wesleyan did not last very long as Senior Jack Flatt made a great play on the first pass attempt by the Wolves to get the interception. The first drive for the Dragons stalled as they were unable to capitalize on the turnover. Fortunately for Pickens, the defense came up with another interception on Wesleyan’s next possession as Senior Colby Brooks got in front of the receiver and took it to the Wolves 15-yd line. Miguel Salto ended the drive after one play as he took it in for a 15-yd touchdown. The PAT was no good and with 7:52 left in the first quarter, the Dragons led the Wolves, 6-0. Wesleyan, scored their first points of the game at the 3:55 mark of the first quarter after a 25-yd touchdown pass. Their PAT was successful and the Wolves now led Pickens, 7-6, as we headed to the second quarter.
Sam Streicher looking for Brooks
In the second quarter, the Dragons defense was up to it again as a high snap caused a timing issue for the Wolves and led to a fumble recovery for Pickens. The Dragons, cashed in on the Wolves third turnover of the game as Salto found the end zone from a yard out for his second score of the game. The PAT was again missed and Pickens would go into the break leading Wesleyan, 12-7.
This snap led to a Dragons fumble recovery
With no scoring in the third quarter, we’ll pick it up in the fourth. Wesleyan got down to the Dragon 1-yd line after a big pass and catch connection by the Wolves. To their credit, the defense for Pickens, still holding on to a 12-7 lead, held Wesleyan to a 20-yd field goal that made it 12-10 Dragons with 10:23 left in the ball game. Later on in the quarter, Pickens held the Wolves again to a field goal attempt. This one, from 36 yards out. Wesleyan also connected with that kick to retake the lead, 13-12 with 3:58 left in the game.
Trailing with time running down, this Dragons team, especially the Dragon team we’ve seen as of late, was not rattled. Hoping to engineer a potential game winning drive, Juniors Sam Streicher and Marcus Pike got their connection going. Streicher looked for Pike down the sideline, which drew the flag and set up the Dragons at the Wesleyan 9-yd line. Riding the hot hand, Streicher, connected with Pike in the corner of the end zone for a 9-yd touchdown. Pickens then made the decision to go for two to try to make it a 7 point game. They did just that as Streicher found Gabe Neil, who made an incredible one handed grab with a Wolves defender wrapped around him for the 2-point conversion.
With 1:03 left in the game, it was Wesleyan’s turn to try to come up with some magic of their own. Having just gotten over into Dragon territory with just around 20 seconds left, the Wolves threw a deep pass that was picked off by Mason Stanfield. That interception, sealed the Dragons fourth consecutive win, and the #3 seed out of 7-AAA.
Final 7-AAA Standings:
Dawson: 8-2 (6-0) Region Champion #1 seed
Lumpkin: 8-2 (5-1) #2 seed
Pickens: 5-5 (4-2) #3 seed
Wesleyan: 4-6 (3-3) #4 seed
White County: 4-6 (2-4)
Gilmer: 5-5 (2-4)
West Hall: 1-9 (0-6)
Dragons pick up big region win against Raiders
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports February 9, 2022
Jasper, Ga — After the girls game, the Senior Night festivities began as Seniors from both the Nettes and Dragons basketball teams, the dance team, and the cheerleading squad were recognized. As for the boys game, this was a must win for both the Dragons and the Raiders as both came in with identical 10-13 overall records, but Pickens came in with a better region record at 4-6 while Southeast Whitfield came in with a 4-7 region record. The Dragons, defeated the Raiders in Dalton on January 14th, 64-51 and were looking for the in season sweep. After a good, hard fought back and forth, Pickens came away with a 65-60 win.
Southeast Whitfield started the game off with a bucket to make it 2-0 early. Senior Collin Kellogg tied things up a 2 a piece, then fellow Senior Caleb Bryant gave the Dragons their first lead of the night with a layup to make it 4-2. Kellogg made a shot and hit the free throw to make it 7-2 Pickens. After a 5-0 run by the Raiders to tie things up at 7, Senior Luke Rogers gave the Dragons the lead back with a bucket to make it 9-7. Bryant extended the lead after splitting a pair of free throws to make it 10-7. A bucket by the Raiders cut the lead down to 10-9. Caleb Keith, then made two free throws to make it 12-9. After a bucket and a free throw make, Southeast Whitfield tied the game back up at 12. They would then retake the lead with a bucket to make it 14-12. Camden Dunn responded with a three pointer to give the Dragons a 15-14 lead. The Raiders then reclaimed the lead after a bucket to make it 16-15. Kellogg closed out the quarter with a bucket to give Pickens a 17-16 lead going to the second quarter.
Dragons looking for a stop defensively
Keith got things going in the second quarter as he hit a three pointer to make it 20-16 Dragons. The Raiders responded with an 8-0 run to take a 24-20 lead. Both teams then traded buckets until Southeast Whitfield went on a 5-0 run to make it 31-24. Pickens closed the first half on a 7-0 run as Marcus Pike got a tough layup to fall, Bryant got another bucket, and Jaden Stewart hit a three to tie things up at 31 going to the half.
Dragons looking for offense in the second
The third quarter started off much like the first quarter did with the Raiders getting the opening bucket to retake the lead, 33-31. A quick 4-0 run from Kellogg and Kadyn Hampton gave the Dragons a 35-33 lead. After Southeast Whitfield split a pair of free throw attempts, Rogers extended the Pickens lead to 37-34 after a bucket. After the Raiders made a three pointer to again tie the ball game up, the Dragons went on a 6-0 run as Rogers made a pair of free throws and made a shot, and Bryant also made a shot to make it 43-37. A three by Southeast Whitfield put an end to the run and cut the lead down to 43-40. The two teams then again traded buckets as Stewart got the last points of the quarter with a three to make it 48-42 Dragons going to the fourth.
Dragons with the ball in the second half
The fourth quarter began with the Raiders getting a bucket to make it 48-44. Hampton answered with a bucket to make it 50-44. After Southeast Whitfield connected on a bucket and the free throw attempt, Rogers made a bucket to make it 52-47. After both teams made shots, the Raiders went on a 4-0 run to cut the Dragons lead down to 54-53. Hampton then made another tough bucket to make it 56-53. A pair of free throws by the Raiders made it 56-55. After a Stewart layup, Southeast Whitfield responded with a bucket to make it 58-57. Pickens answered that with a 5-0 run as Stewart made a three pointer and Hampton made a bucket to make it 63-57. A three pointer by the Raiders then cut the lead to 63-60. After a turnover by the Dragons, Bryant came up big with a steal and a layup at the other end to give the Dragons a 65-60 win.
Leading Scorers For The Dragons:
Jaden Stewart: 13 points
Caleb Bryant: 11 points
Kadyn Hampton: 10 points
Luke Rogers: 10 points
Collin Kellogg: 9 points
Caleb Keith: 7 points
Camden Dunn: 3 points
Marcus Pike: 2 points
7-AAAA Boys Region Standings:
Central-Carroll: 16-8 (10-2) will be the #1 seed in the region tournament
Northwest Whitfield: 21-3 (9-3) will be the #2 seed in the region tournament
Cedartown: 10-11 (7-4) will be the #3 seed in the region tournament
Pickens: 11-13 (5-6) will be either the #4 or #5 seed in the region tournament
Heritage: 9-13 (5-7) will be either the #$ or #5 seed in the region tournament
Southeast Whitfield: 10-14 (4-8) will be the #6 seed in the region tournament
Ridgeland: 8-16 (1-11) will be the #7 seed in the region tournament
One more game to go in the regular season as the Dragons will host the Cedartown Bulldogs on Thursday, February 10th in a big time region game. This is the make up game from a few weeks back as the original game could not be played due to weather. A win for the Dragons will make them the #4 seed in the upcoming region tournament. Tip off set for 7:30.
Nettes roll against Southeast Whitfield on Senior Night
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports February 9, 2022
Jasper, Ga — A big crowd was on hand as the Pickens Dragonettes 20-2 (10-0), welcomed the Southeast Whitfield Lady Raiders 1-21 (1-10) to the Dragons Den for Senior Night. The Nettes, came in riding an 18 game winning streak after defeating the 10th ranked team in Single-A Private, the Darlington Lady Tigers on Saturday. The Lady Raiders also had reason to be excited as they picked up their first win of the season against Ridgeland last week. Using a fantastic defensive effort, the Nettes came away with a 59-7 win.
Senior Carmyn Mullins got the scoring started for the Nettes in the first quarter as they took a quick 2-0 lead. Younger sister of Carmyn, Sophomore Caroline Mullins, followed that up with a steal for an easy layup to make it 4-0. After a nice set up from fellow Senior Amanda Nelson, Carmyn Mullins made another shot to make it 6-0. Junior Madison Powell nailed the first three pointer of the game to make it 9-0. Freshman Emmie Moore made an impact early on as she hit a three pointer to make it 12-0. Caroline Mullins got in on the three pointer party as she hit one to make it 15-0 Nettes going to the second quarter.
Nettes with the ball in the first quarter
In the second quarter, Pickens continued it’s great play on both sides of the court. To begin the scoring in the second quarter, Sophomore Bella Hopkins hit a three pointer to make it 18-0. Hopkins then nailed a floater after a nice dish from Caroline Mullins to make it 20-0. Senior Amanda Nelson then got her first points of the night as she hit a three pointer to make it 23-0. Hopkins, continued her stellar second quarter with another three pointer to make it 26-0. Carmyn Mullins then had a nice put back score after fighting for a rebound to make it 28-0. Another Freshman, Brylee Deering, got her first points of the game after a nice pump fake led to a nice make on a jump shot to make it 30-0. Junior Emma Gleason got her first points of the game late in the first half as Caroline Mullins found her wide open underneath the basket for a layup to make it 32-0. Just before the end of the first half, Junior Jazmine Chastain got a steal and took it all the way down the floor for the layup. Going into the break, the Nettes led the Lady Raiders, 34-0.
Nettes pitched a shutout in the first half
The second half, was a shortened half as both the third and fourth quarters were both 6 minute quarters instead of the usual 8 minute quarters. In the third quarter, the Nettes continued their scoring ways as the Senior to Senior connection was in play as Carmyn Mullins dished it to a cutting Nelson for the layup to make it 36-0. The Lady Raiders, got their first points of the game on a three pointer to make it 36-3. After a rebound by Hopkins, she found a sprinting Gleason down the floor who then laid it up an in to make 38-3. After getting fouled, Carmyn Mullins went 2-2 from the free throw line to make it 40-3. A nice in-bounds play set up a Moore jumper after a good pass from Nelson to make it 42-3. Good ball movement from the Nettes, and a pass from Moore, led to a three pointer from Gleason to make it 45-3. A scramble for a loose ball on the next Lady Raider possession led to Southeast Whitfield getting an open layup to make it 45-5. On the next possession for Pickens, Moore had a nice drive and kick as she found an open Deering for the three to make it 48-5. A final shot before the buzzer would not fall for the Nettes as we’d head to the fourth with Pickens ahead, 48-5.
Senior Amanda Nelson with the ball
To start the fourth, Carmyn Mullins got fouled and hit both shots to make it 50-5. A little later on in the fourth, Hopkins found Nelson for a layup to make it 52-5. After the two teams traded possessions for a bit, the Lady Raiders got a jump shot to go to make it 52-7. After a steal by the Nettes, Carmyn Mullins found Nelson for the layup to make it 54-7. After grabbing the offensive rebound, and using good ball movement, Sophomore Emery Steinhauer found Deering who hit a bank shot three pointer to make it 57-7. A steal by Deering on the Lady Raiders next possession led to an open layup for Steinhauer as she made it 59-7. The final seconds would then tick away as the Nettes came away with their 19th straight win by defeating the Southeast Whitfield Lady Raiders, 59-7.
7-AAAA Girls Region Standings:
Pickens: 21-2 (11-0) will be the #1 seed in the region tournament
Heritage: 16-7 (9-3) will be either the #2 or #3 seed in the region tournament
Northwest Whitfield: 16-9 (9-3) will be either the #2 or #3 seed in the region tournament
Central-Carroll: 10-14 (6-6) will be the #4 seed in the region tournament
Cedartown: 4-15 (3-8) will be the #5 seed in the region tournament
Ridgeland: 5-19 (2-10) will be the #6 seed in the region tournament
Southeast Whitfield: 1-22 (1-11) will be the #7 seed in the region tournament
While they did already have Senior Night to recognize the Senior basketball players, cheerleaders, and dance team, there is still one more home game left to be played. Cedartown, will come to Jasper on Thursday, February 10th to close out the regular season. This is a make up game from several weeks back as the original game was canceled due to weather. Tip off for this one is set for 6 pm.
Dragons fall in a heart breaker to Lions
PHS Football, Team FYN Sports October 16, 2021
Jasper, Ga — It was another beautiful night for high school football in the north Georgia mountains as the Pickens Dragons welcomed the Central-Carroll Lions to Dragons Stadium for a big 7-AAAA showdown. This would mark the first ever meeting between these teams. Before the game, the Dragon senior football and cheerleaders were recognized for Senior Night.
The first quarter, saw both teams defenses step up as neither offense could get anything going on their respective drives. The Dragons, were able to breakthrough at the 2:48 mark of the opening quarter with a 38-yd field goal by Senior Jose Sanchez. Going to the 2nd quarter, Pickens led the Lions, 3-0.
Jose Sanchez hits the field goal attempt
The Dragons added to their lead early on in the second quarter as Sam Streicher found Isaiah Williams for a 24-yd touchdown. With 10:59 left in the first half, Pickens now led Central-Carroll, 10-0. Later on in the quarter, the Dragons were looking to add even more to their point total, but the Lions were able to pick off a pass attempt, and take it the other way for a touchdown. Going into the break, Pickens led Central-Carroll, 10-7.
Dragons defense pressures the Lions quarterback
In the third quarter, the Lions picked up their first offensive score of the ball game as the quarterback ran to the right and just barely crossed the goal line before being ruled down. The PAT attempt was no good. With 5:08 left in the third, Central-Carroll now led the Dragons, 13-10. This would be the score going to the fourth quarter.
Streicher looking for an open man
In the fourth quarter, Central-Carroll was driving to add to their lead. The Dragon defense, was able to force a turnover and give the offense a chance to regain the lead. After two back to back spectacular catches from Senior Tom Frechette and Sophomore Marcus Pike, Streicher found Senior Devin Hand in the left corner of the end zone for a 17-yd touchdown. The PAT was good and with 8:07 left in the ball game, Pickens led the Lions, 17-13. After stopping the Lions on their next possession, the Dragons took over looking to melt time off the clock and add to the lead. With the ball near the 40-yd line of the Lions, Pickens decided to go for it on 4th and 1. An early snap however through off the timing of the play and Central-Carroll would take over. After a long pass play, the Lions got it down to the Dragons 8-yd line. A run play got it down to the 1-yd line. On 3rd down the Dragons defense tightened up and stopped the QB run. On 4th down, with a little help from his running back, the Lions QB was able to get in for the touchdown. With 1:31 left on the clock and now down by three, The Dragons offense went to work. Streicher picked up a big first down on 4th down and Pickens used the sideline to their advantage. One of the bigger plays of the game was when Streicher was running out of bounds, he took a hit that looked late, but wasn’t called. That set up a 44-yd field goal attempt to tie it and send it to overtime. Unfortunately for the Dragons, the kick sailed left and was no good. Your final score, Central-Carroll 20 Pickens 17.
7-AAAA Standings:
Cedartown: 6-1 (3-0)
Northwest Whitfield: 4-3 (2-1)
Heritage: 4-2 (2-1)
Central-Carroll: 4-4 (1-2)
Pickens: 4-3 (1-2)
Ridgeland: 1-7 (0-3)
*Southeast Whitfield: 1-7 (0-0)
*Not playing a region schedule
The Dragons, will have a bye week next week as they get ready for their next game against the Heritage Generals on the road on October, 29th. Kickoff for that one is set for 7:30.
Dragons shut out Rebels on Senior Night
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports April 17, 2021
Pickens County, Ga — It was a night for celebration and to recognize as the Pickens Dragons (13-12, 5-10) welcomed the Fannin Rebels (6-19, 3-12) to Dunn Field on Friday, April, 16th for the second game of their home and home series. Before the game, Seniors Seth Densmore, Drake Sutton, Hunter White, and Jarod Whitmore were honored for their contributions to Dragons baseball over the years. The moms of the players then threw out a ceremonial first pitch to their sons. As for the game, the Dragons were able to pick up the sweep over the Rebels with a 9-0 win.
In the top of the 1st, Brady Martin was hit with a pitch and advanced to 2nd after a successful steal attempt. Sutton, the starter for the Dragons, collected his first strikeout of the game and induced a fly out to send it to the bottom of the 1st. In the bottom of the 1st, Trace Ledbetter reached 1st base after being hit by a pitch. Densmore, then followed with a 2-out double. Rebel starter, Wyatt Rogers, got a fly out for the 3rd out to send us to the 2nd, tied at 0.
In the top half of the 2nd, Rebels designated hitter Jake Kuna, reached on an error. Kuna, would be left stranded at 2nd as Sutton picked up his 3rd strikeout of the game to send us to the bottom of the 2nd. Pickens, broke through in the bottom half of the 2nd. Sutton got things going with a 1-out double. Harlan Will then reached 1st on a fielder’s choice. Colby Brooks, who courtesy ran for Sutton, scored on a passed ball to make it 1-0 Dragons. James Tilley, then reached on an error. Connor Shouse, cleared the bases as he belted a 3-run home run, the first of the season for the freshman, to make it 4-0. After a strikeout, Ledbetter hit a single, then scored on an RBI double from Densmore to make it 5-0 Dragons going to the top of the 3rd.
In the top of the 3rd, Martin drew a 2-out walk. Martin, would be left at 2nd after Sutton collected his 5th strikeout of the game. In the bottom of the frame, Sutton and Will were hit by pitches on back to back at bats with 1-out. Shouse, drove in courtesy runners Brooks and Ethan Gemberling with a 2-RBI double to make it 7-0. White, followed that up with an RBI single to bring in Shouse. Going to the 4th, the Dragons led the Rebels, 8-0.
The top of the 4th saw Fannin threaten with another scoring chance to try to cut the Pickens lead down. Logan Hughes and Sawyer Moreland reached with back to back singles with 1-out. After a ground out advanced the runners to 2nd and 3rd, Sutton forced a grounder to 1st to end the top half of the 4th. In the bottom of the 4th, Densmore led off by drawing a walk. Logan Shirley came in to pitch run for Densmore. After advancing to 2nd after Anthony Antinozzi was hit by a pitch, and to 3rd after a steal attempt, Shirley came in to score after Sutton reached 1st on a fielder’s choice to make it 9-0.
In the 5th, Densmore came on in relief of Sutton who pitched extremely well through 4 innings of work for the Dragons. Martin, tried to get a rally going for the Rebels as he reached base with a 2-out double. Densmore, got out of the top of the 5th by collecting his 2nd strikeout of the inning to send us to the bottom of the frame. In the bottom of the 5th, the Rebels right fielder Jason Pearson, who came on in relief in the bottom of the 4th, got the first 1-2-3 inning of the game in the bottom of the 5th to send us to the 6th, Dragons ahead, 9-0.
In the top of the 6th, Moreland reached base after a 2-out walk. A nice play over at 3rd base by Sutton on a dribbler by Kuna ended the top half of the inning and sent us to the bottom of the frame. Pearson, again fired another 1-2-3 inning as he collected his first two strikeouts to send us to the 7th.
In the top of the 7th, Rogers, reached on a 1-out single. Pearson, was then hit by a pitch. With 2 outs, Densmore was able to induce a grounder to third for the 3rd out and the Dragons took this one, 9-0.
Dragons Stats:
Connor Shouse: 2-4 with a home run, a double, 4 RBI, and 2 runs scored
Hunter White: 1-4 with a single, and 1 RBI
Trace Ledbetter: 1-3 with a hit by pitch, a single, and 1 run scored
Seth Densmore: 2-3 with 2 doubles, 1 walk, and 1 RBI & 3 IP, 3 K, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 1 HBP
Anthony Antinozzi: 1 hit by pitch
Drake Sutton: 1-3 with a double, a hit by pitch, and 1 RBI & 4 IP, 5 K, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 1 HBP, 76 pitches
Harlan Will: 1 hit by pitch
James Tilley: 1 walk, and 1 run scored
Colby Brooks: 2 runs scored
Ethan Gemberling: 2 runs scored
Logan Shirley: 1 run scored
Rebels Stats:
Jason Pearson: 1 hit by pitch
Brady Martin: 1-2 with a hit by pitch, 1 walk, and 1 double
Logan Hughes: 1-3 with a single
Sawyer Moreland: 1-2 with a single, and a walk
Wyatt Rogers: 1-3 with a single
Nettes continue winning ways on senior night
Sports, Team FYN Sports December 14, 2020
Jasper, Ga — The PHS Dragonettes hosted the Ridgeland Lady Panthers on Friday, December 11th in another 7-AAAA meeting. With the uncertainty surrounding the rest of the season, this night was deemed Senior Night that way the players from the Nettes and Dragons, as well as the cheer and dance teams could be recognized. The Nettes, came into the game after a big region win over the Heritage Lady Generals on Tuesday, and looked to improve their region record to 3-0 and the their overall record to 4-2. Ridgeland, came in 1-3 overall, and 0-2 in region play.
The first quarter started off slow for both teams. Plenty of shots were going up, just none would fall for either side. Reagan Harwood got the scoring started for the Nettes as she was able to connect on a layup attempt. Amanda Nelson then followed with a couple of free throws. Towards the end of the quarter Pickens saw shots start falling more consistently. Harwood got another bucket, Emma Gleason and Cassidy Richards hit back to back three pointers, and Nelson made a bucket to give the Nettes a 15-0 lead over the Lady Panthers after the first quarter.
Nettes running an in-bounds play
To begin the second quarter, the Nettes went on a 16-0 run. The Lady Panthers would end their string of bad luck with a three pointer, and a jump shot. The offense was on fire for Pickens in the second quarter scoring 35 points. Senior Kealy Hillhouse lead the way with several three pointers during the quarter. Heading into halftime, the Nettes held a 50-5 lead over Ridgeland.
The Nettes would score 35 points in the second quarter
In the third quarter, the Nettes got multiple players involved in the scoring as they continued to lead the Lady Panthers going to the fourth, 65-7.
The Nettes defense was again very good
In the fourth quarter, the Nettes closed things out and picked up their third straight win overall and in the region with a 78-7 win over the Ridgeland Lady Panthers.
Nettes scoring leaders:
Kealy Hillhouse: 19 points
Amanda Nelson: 14 points
Reagan Harwood: 10 points
Cassidy Richards: 9 points
Emma Gleason: 9 points
7-AAAA Girls Basketball Standings:
Pickens: 4-2 (3-0)
Cedartown: 2-0 (1-0)
Northwest Whitfield: 1-2 (1-0)
Heritage: 4-3 (2-1)
Central-Carroll: 3-4 (1-1)
Ridgeland: 1-4 (0-3)
Southeast Whitfield: 0-5 (0-3)
Dragons even region record on senior night
Sports, Team FYN Sports December 14, 2020
Jasper, Ga — Looking to bounce back after a tough loss in the final seconds to the Heritage Generals on Tuesday, the Pickens Dragons hosted the Ridgeland Panthers inside the Dragons Den for another 7-AAAA showdown on Friday December, 11th. The Dragons came into the game 2-2 overall and 0-1 in region play. The Panthers came in 1-3 overall and 0-2 in region play. After a back and forth battle, the Dragons came away with a 67-53 win.
Both teams traded buckets for the majority of the first quarter. Pickens opened up a 16-7 to lead at one point the quarter. Going to the second quarter, the Dragons held an 18-10 advantage over Ridgeland.
Junior Luke Rogers with an early bucket
In the second quarter, the Dragons were able to open things up a bit offensively, extending the lead over the Panthers to 17 at one point. Going into the break, Pickens lead Ridgeland 41-25.
Dragons on defense against Ridgeland
The third quarter was pretty even as far as scoring goes. Both the Dragons and the Panthers added 16 points each in the third. While Ridgeland cut the Pickens lead to 9 for a bit, the Dragons were able to extend it by quarters end and take a 57-41 lead over the Panthers going to the fourth.
Tucker Lowe had 19 to lead the Dragons
In the fourth quarter, the Dragons built up their lead to 20 points on two different occasions. Pickens, closed this one out and picked up their first region win of the season, 67-53.
Dragons leading scorers:
Tucker Lowe: 19 points
Noah Sutton: 15 points
Owen Moss: 10 points
Luke Rogers: 6 points
Kadyn Hampton: 6 points
Nettes’ split with gilmer and cass on senior night
PHS Volleyball, Sports, Team FYN Sports August 28, 2020
The Pickens Dragonettes (4-6, 1-0) welcomed the Gilmer Lady Cats and the Cass Lady Colonels in a non-region tri-match on Thursday, August 27th. With how things are in the world today, tonight was also Senior Night for the Pickens Dragonettes. The first match of the evening featured the all too familiar 515 rivalry of Pickens and Gilmer. The Lady Cats, came into the match with an overall record of 5-2. As you know, when it comes to Pickens and Gilmer, records get thrown out the window.
The first game was highly competitive as both teams made some spectacular plays, trading point for point the majority of the game. Gilmer was able to come away with the first game, 25-20 over the Nettes. The Nettes looked to even things up in game two, but the Lady Cats were able to take that one as well after another tough battle, 25-18.
Gilmer serving to Pickens in the first match of the evening
After the Lady Cats match with the Nettes, they had to turn right around and face the Lady Colonels of Cass in their second match. Cass jumped out to an early lead on Gilmer in the first game, but the Lady Cats came back to take it, 25-17. In the second game, Gilmer kept the ball rolling and won it 25-12 to sweep the match and end the night 2-0.
Gilmer setting up a spike attempt as Cass looks to block
With the sweep, Gilmer now sits at 7-2 overall. They will take on region opponent Cherokee Bluff and non-region opponent Hart County at Cherokee Bluff on Tuesday, and host Pickens and Fannin County in a non-region tri-match on Thursday.
After the Gilmer and Cass match ended, it was time for the Senior Night presentation. In what was a very classy gesture by the hosting Pickens High School, they recognized the three seniors from Gilmer, and the seniors from Cass prior to recognizing the nine seniors on the Nettes roster.
Once all the Senior Night festivities were over, it was time for the final match of the evening between the Nettes and the Lady Colonels. Cass, jumped out to an 8-3 lead and an 11-7 lead at one point before Pickens rallied back to take the first game 25-16. In the second game, both teams traded points as again the Nettes had to rally from behind. After tying things up at 13 points a piece, Pickens rattled off 12 straight points to take the second game 25-13 to sweep the match.
The Nettes were able to split after taking the match against Cass
On Tuesday, the Nettes will travel to Rossville Georgia to take on the Ridgeland Lady Panthers and the Heritage Lady Generals in a 7-AAAA region tri-match. That is slated to start at 5 pm. On Thursday, as mentioned earlier, the Nettes will make the short trip up to Ellijay to take on the Gilmer Lady Cats and the Fannin Lady Rebels in a non-region tri-match. That is also scheduled to start at 5 pm.
Dragons fall to Ramblers in region game
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports January 18, 2020
Friday night, the Pickens Dragons (15-5, 6-3) hosted the Lafayette Ramblers (18-2, 9-0) in a big 6-AAAA region game. Prior to the game, the seniors were recognized from the dance team, the cheerleaders, and the basketball teams for Senior Night. The Ramblers, were able to walk away with this one, 61-33.
In the first quarter, Lafayette got things going on their end with a quick 4-0 start. Owen Moss scored the first points for the Dragons with a bucket to make it 4-2. Noah Sutton made the second bucket for Pickens as that cut to the Ramblers lead to 8-4. Lafayette outscored the Dragons 6-2 for the remainder of the quarter to take a 14-6 lead into the second.
Luke Rogers looking for the open man
In the second quarter, Tucker Lowe got going with a three pointer to the Ramblers lead to 16-9. A bucket by senior Aidan Sanchez, trimmed the Lafayette lead down to 21-13, but the Ramblers came right back with a bucket of their own. Lafayette would take control of the rest of the half as they grabbed a 35-16 lead over the Dragons, going to the break.
Dragons looking to defend the Ramblers
In the third, Lowe got the scoring going with another three pointer. Lowe would stop a Rambler 6-0 run with another three pointer to make it 41-22. Sanchez, made a layup before the quarter came to an end making it 50-27 Ramblers going to the fourth.
Tucker Lowe looking for a lane
In the fourth quarter, A 6-0 run by Lafayette was stopped by a Luke Rogers free throw and another Lowe three pointer to make it 56-31. The Ramblers, would outscore the Dragons 5-2 the rest of the way to take the win, 61-33.
Leading the way for the Dragons were:
Tucker Lowe: 12 points
Noah Sutton: 6 points
Owen Moss: 5 points
Aidan Sanchez: 4 points
Luke Rogers: 3 points
Pickens, will be back on the court this afternoon as they welcome the Pepperell Dragons to town for an afternoon tilt. Tip off is set for 2:30 pm.
Nettes sweep Lafayette on senior night
PHS Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports January 18, 2020
On Friday, the Pickens Dragonettes (14-7, 7-2) welcomed the Lafayette Lady Ramblers (12-8, 4-5) for a 6-AAAA contest. It was Senior Night in Jasper last night and the Nettes picked up another big win 59-56. Also, there was a little history made in the process.
The first quarter started out pretty evenly as we had a tie game, 6-6. From there, Pickens went on a 12-0 run to take an 18-6 lead before Lafayette hit a bucket. The Nettes, closed on a 5-0 run highlighted by a play by senior Mykenzie Weaver where she stole the ball in the corner, then turned around and shot a three pointer and sent the home crowd in a frenzy when it connected. Going to the second, Pickens led the Lady Ramblers 23-8.
Nettes setting up offense in the 1st
In the second quarter, Lafayette went on a run of their own and cut the Nettes lead down to 25-18 at one point. The Lady Ramblers would hit a layup just before the half ended to make it 28-21 Pickens as we went to the break.
Nettes looking to stop a drive through the lane
In the third quarter, again, Lafayette made a run. The Lady Ramblers had the Nettes lead down to just 32-29 at one time. During the third, we saw history made. Weaver, scored a bucket and that would be her 2,000th career point scored in a Dragonettes jersey. Time was called and she received a standing ovation from the home crowd and hugs from her teammates and coaches. After the mini celebration, Pickens had to refocus as they maintained their close lead on Lafayette. Going to the fourth, the Nettes held a 44-39 lead.
Mykenzie Weaver drawing a foul
Early in the fourth quarter, Lafayette hit one of two free throws to cut the Pickens lead to 44-40. Cassidy Richards stepped up and hit a big three for the Nettes to make it 47-40. With the score 47-46 Pickens, senior Sarah Morris got an open look and nailed a three to make it 50-46. After the Lady Ramblers made a free throw, Morris again launched a three point attempt that found it’s mark. Lafayette, would not go away as they again cut the Nettes lead down to 57-54. Another Nettes senior, Chloe Walker, calmly stepped to the line and hit two free throws to make it 59-54. Lafayette made a layup at the buzzer as Pickens came away with this one, 59-56.
Leading the way for the Nettes were:
Mykenzie Weaver: 31 points
Sarah Morris: 13 points
Reagan Harwood: 5 points
Cassidy Richards: 4 points
Carmyn Mullins: 2 points
Amanda Nelson: 2 points
Chloe Walker: 2 points
6-AAAA Girls Standings:
Gilmer: 14-5 (9-0)\
Northwest Whitfield: 16-5 (9-1)
Pickens: 14-7 (7-2)
Lafayette: 12-8 (4-5)
Southeast Whitfield: 5-15 (2-7)
Ridgeland: 2-16 (1-9)
Heritage: 4-17 (1-9)
Pickens, will again be home on Tuesday as they welcome the Gilmer Lady Cats to the Dragons Den. The Lady Cats, as you see above, lead 6-AAAA and the Nettes are two games back in third. This will surely be another exciting installment in the Pickens/Gilmer rivalry. Tip off is set for 6 pm.
Dragons Win Shootout On Senior Night To Clinch Playoff Berth
Sports, Team FYN Sports November 2, 2019
Jasper, Ga — Last night, it was do or die for the PHS Dragons varsity football team as they hosted the Lafayette Ramblers for Senior Night. It was simple. A win for the Dragons and they would be in the playoffs. A loss, meant their season was over.
The Dragons, received the opening kickoff, and only took 1:51 off the clock as Senior QB CJ Streicher ran it in from 36-yds out for the score. The extra point was no good, & Pickens led early, 6-0. Lafayette answered on their opening drive with a 5-yd touchdown run at the 4:36 mark. The PAT was good & the Ramblers took a 7-6 lead. After a punt by the Dragons, Lafayette would take the lead with a 71-yd touchdown run, giving them a 14-6 lead, as we’d head to the 2nd.
At the 7:42 mark of the 2nd quarter, Lafayette stretched their lead out with a 72-yd touchdown run, making it 21-6 Ramblers. Needing a big play to jump start the team, Streicher delivered a 71-yd touchdown run to cut into the Rambler lead, 21-12, with 6:56 left in the 1st half. Lafayette, took 2:10 off the clock as they scored on a 14-yd touchdown run to make it 28-12, with 4:46 left in the half. Pickens, would make it a one score game with a 1-yd touchdown run by Streicher. The Dragons would convert the 2-point conversion. At the half, The Ramblers led the Dragons, 28-20.
To start the 3rd quarter, the Dragons got the big play they needed on defense as they were able to force and recover a Rambler fumble. Streicher capped off the ensuing drive with an 18-yd touchdown run. The 2-point conversion was successful, & just like that, we had a tie game at 28, with 10:18 left in the 3rd. Lafayette, took the lead back with a 16-yd touchdown run, to make it 35-28, with 6:35 left in the 3rd. Pickens, came right back as Streicher connected with a wide open Jarod Whitmore on a 23-yd touchdown pass to tie things up at 35. It wouldn’t be tied for long however as the Ramblers reclaimed the lead with a 79-yd touchdown run, to make it 42-35, with 3:14 to go in the 3rd. Streicher, would again find the end zone with a 13-yd touchdown run to make it 42 all, going to the 4th.
Early in the 4th, Lafayette would drive deep into Pickens territory, but the Dragons would hold them to a 38-yd field goal, making it 45-42 Ramblers, with 10:18 left in the game. At the 7:27 mark of the 4th, Streicher would barrel his way into the end zone for his 6th rushing touchdown of the game, & 7th total, to give the Dragons their first lead of the contest. Driving down late in the game, Lafayette thought they had a go ahead touchdown. However, a chop block penalty negated the score. The Ramblers, would choose to go for it on 4th down, but the pass came up incomplete, & the Dragons would take over. Pickens, would drive down towards midfield & were faced with a 4th & 3. Coach Nelson decided to go for it, & put it in the hands of his Senior QB. Streicher, would fight hard on the run with help from the o-line. It would come down to a measurement. The ball, measured just across the sticks & the Dragons would get the win, 49-45, to secure a playoff spot for the 6th consecutive season.
6-AAAA Standings:
Heritage: 4-1
Northwest Whitfield: 4-1
Ridgeland: 4-1
Pickens: 4-2
Gilmer: 1-4
Lafayette: 1-4
Southeast Whitfield: 0-5
All eyes will be on the Heritage/Northwest Whitfield match up next week as that game will determine the seeding as far as the playoffs are concerned. Should Heritage win & Ridgeland win their game against Southeast Whitfield, Ridgeland would win the region title, Heritage would be the 2nd seed, Pickens would be the 3rd seed, & Northwest Whitfield would be the 4th seed. Should Northwest Whitfield defeat Heritage, the Bruins would win the region, Ridgeland would be the 2nd seed, Heritage would be the 3rd seed, & Pickens would be the 4th seed. Pickens, will either play North Oconee or Oconee County in the 1st round of the playoffs.
Dragons End Regular Season By Sweeping LaFayette
PHS Baseball April 19, 2019
Yesterday, the PHS Dragons varsity baseball team hosted the LaFayette Ramblers at PJHS for a doubleheader to close out the regular season. Pickens, defeated the Ramblers on Tuesday at LaFayette, 2-0, behind a complete game shutout by Colby James, & looked to win the series, & to finish 3rd in the region heading into the state tournament. It was also Senior Night as the Seniors were recognized in between games.
Game 1:
Senior & College of Charleston signee Caswell Smith started game 1 (game 2 overall of the series) & he pitched a masterpiece.
In the bottom of the 1st, the Dragons struck first with 2 runs to take a 2-0 lead. Pickens added to that lead in the bottom of the 2nd, as two more runs would come home, making it 4-0 Dragons. One more run would score in the bottom of the 4th as Pickens extended it’s lead to 5-0 over LaFayette.
With the way Smith pitched, the Dragons only needed 1 run as Smith tossed a complete game, no-hit shutout as the Dragons took the first game of the doubleheader, 5-0.
Game 2:
The 2nd game was started by another senior, & another college signee. Will Lawrence, who is signed with Wallace State to continue his baseball career, took the mound for the final game of the series. Lawrence got off to a good start, striking out the side in the top of the 1st. In the bottom of the 1st, Brady Moore, led off with a walk, stole 2nd, stole 3rd, & scored after the ball got passed the 3rd baseman. Dragons led, 1-0.
Pickens, held that 1-0 lead over the Ramblers until the top of the 4th, when LaFayette plated 2 runs to take a 2-1 lead. Their first lead of the game & of the series. The Dragons, retook the lead in the bottom of the 5th with 2 runs of their own to make it 3-2. LaFayette answered right back with a run in the top of the 6th, to tie things up at 3 a piece.
With 2 outs in the bottom of the 7th, catcher Tyler Vreeland got on base with a single. Jarod Whitmore would then be brought in to courtesy run for Vreeland. Whitmore, would steal 2nd, then make his way to 3rd after the ball got passed the infield & into the outfield. Whitmore, would then come home to score the game winning run on a wild pitch. Pickens, finishes the regular season in exciting fashion winning 4-3.
Pickens, finishes the regular season at 19-11, & 12-6 in region play. The 19 wins are the most in a season for any PHS Baseball team. The Dragons, will represent 6-AAAA as the 3rd seed & take on the 2 seed out of region 7, the Marist War Eagles, in the first round of the 4A State Baseball Tournament. First pitch is set for Wednesday at 5:30.
PHS Golf Splits Match With Sonoraville, Senior Night Tuesday
Team FYN Sports April 12, 2019
It was a windy, but beautiful afternoon at Bent Tree yesterday afternoon as the PHS Golf team hosted the Sonoraville Phoenix. The Dragons & Dragonettes golf teams have performed very well this season & looked to continue with the regular season coming to an end.
The front 9, was closed so the teams got a little treat in being able to play the back 9, & test their skill with all that it brings. In the end, Pickens & Sonoraville split the match. The PHS Girls, took home the win, 160-181, while the Phoenix got the win in a closely nit battle with the Dragons, 168-172.
Pickens, will have one more match before they head to the 6-AAAA Region Tournament. That match, will be next Tuesday at Bent Tree, where they will host the Gilmer Bobcats & Lady Cats for Senior Night. Tee off is set for 4 pm.
Dragons Fall To Southeast Whitfield, Turn Attention To Region Tournament
PHS Basketball, Team FYN Sports February 1, 2019
After the Nettes’ big win, the Dragons took the floor to take on the Raiders of Southeast Whitfield in their final game of the regular season. Coming into the game, Pickens knew where they would be next week when the region tournament starts, but looked to get some momentum built going into it.
Southeast Whitfield, got off to the quick start in the opening quarter, but the Dragons were able to cut into the lead & the Raiders held a 14-9 advantage going to the 2nd. In the 2nd, the Raiders outscored Pickens 16-9, to extend their lead to 30-18 going into the break.
In the 3rd, the Raiders outscored the Dragons slightly, 14-12, to extend their lead to 44-30, going to the 4th and final quarter. In the 4th, Pickens, did what they’ve done lately & made things interesting at the end. Trailing by 14 to start the frame, the Dragons stormed back and got within a couple of points of Southeast Whitfield. Pickens, outscored the Raiders 21-14 in the 4th, but Southeast Whitfield was able to hit a few late free throws to seal it, 58-51.
Stats:
Zach Goss: 22 points, 2 assists, 8 rebounds, 2 steals
Hunter Hermann: 10 points, 2 assists, 3 rebounds, 3 steals, 3 blocks
Brady Moore: 7 points, 1 assist, 3 rebounds, 3 steals, 1 block
Seth Bishop: 6 points, 1 assist, 3 rebounds
Owen Moss: 2 points, 3 assists, 2 rebounds, 1 steal
Tucker Lowe: 2 points, 2 assists, 3 rebounds
Hayes Pickett: 2 points
Pickens, will now look towards the 6-AAAA Region Tournament being held at Southeast Whitfield next week. The Dragons, will come in as the 6th seed, & take on the 3rd seeded Heritage Generals in the 1st round on Tuesday. Pickens & Heritage split their two regular season meetings with each winning on the others floor. Tip off is set for 6 pm.