MURPHYSBORO — The battle for Jackson County bragging rights did not disappoint Tuesday night, as Carbondale won at Murphysboro 57-52 in overtime.
The Terriers led 19-16 at the half and scored the first two baskets in the third quarter to extend their lead to seven.
The Red Devils promptly went on a 15-3 run–eight of those 15 came courtesy JaQuan Jackson. Jackson’s three-point play tied the game at 24. His three-pointer gave Murphysboro the lead. The Red Devils took a 35-32 lead to the fourth quarter.
Carbondale trailed by as many as five in the fourth quarter, but Davaris Macklin rallied the Terriers. Macklin hit a pair of threes, including the tying triple with 12 seconds left. Macklin then took a charge as Calvon Clemons raced down the floor to try to get a potential game-winning shot off.
The Terriers scored the first six points in OT to take control. Dezmond Clark hit a three to pull Murphysboro within three, but the Red Devils could get no closer, as the Terriers held on for the win.
Both teams will have a busy weekend ahead. The Terriers will host Cahokia Friday night before taking on Triad at the Edwardsville Shootout Saturday.
The Red Devils will host Massac County Friday and visit Du Quoin Saturday.
Notes:
At halftime, a group of former Murphysboro great Ray Blakemore’s teammates and coaches presented the American Cancer Society a check for $2000. “Ray’s Red Devils” raised the money for the Relay for Life event in honor of Blakemore, who passed away last month.