Benton 69, Waxahachie 62
Benton made sure not to leave King Cotton without a win by opening Monday’s action with a 69-62 win against Waxahachie (Texas).
Panther freshman Anthony Spratt Jr. stood out with a 27-point, eight-rebound performance. A.D. Gray followed with 17 points and 12 rebounds. University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff signee Harrison Pickett scored 12 points with a team-high six assists.
Benton junior Javarious Russell hit a floater as time expired in the first quarter to give the Panthers an 18-16 lead. Pickett, who scored the day’s first points for the second consecutive day, knocked down a shot to end the second quarter, extending the lead to 35-30.
The Panthers cruised in the second half. Waxahachie kept it close but never truly threatened the Benton lead as both teams finished the tournament 1-2.
The Indians’ loss came despite a 23-point showing by junior Michael Gatewood. Christian Brown added 13.