Darren Kinnard
Section618.com

HARRISBURG — The Hardin County Cougars used a big third quarter to break open a close game and go on to win the Greater Egyptian Conference Tournament championship, 48-35 over NCOE.

The Cougars led 20-19 at the half, and extended that lead in the third.

Jake Vaughn led Hardin County with 19 points, and Kailen Gerdes added 10, but it was Gavin Smith’s nine points during the decisive third quarter that helped turn the tide. Smith hit three 3-pointers from just about the same spot on the left wing. Smith’s third 3-pointer of the quarter extended the Cougars’ lead to 35-26 heading to the fourth.

The Cougars only made one field goal in the fourth quarter, but hit 11-12 from the free throw to keep NCOE from mounting a rally. The Fighting Cardinals could get no closer than eight down the stretch.

NCOE’s Joel Hortin led all scorers with 22, including 16 of the Fighting Cardinals’ 19 first half points.

The GEC Tournament was the only area tournament to be played during last year’s Covid season, but it was done on campus sites in front of limited crowds. This year it was back at SIC and with exuberant fans. After receiving the trophy, Vaughn and the Cougars took it over to the student section to allow them some time with the trophy as well.