BY KYLE LOVERN
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INSTITUTE, W.Va. — Tug Valley downed No. 2-ranked Webster County 69-59 in the Par Mar Shootout played Feb. 8 at the Convocation Center on the campus of West Virginia State University in Institute, W.Va.

The Panthers, ranked No. 3 heading into the game, were playing their second game in less than 24 hours. They had defeated Mingo Central the previous night and then traveled up Corridor G and down I-64 for the Wednesday afternoon contest.

The win could prove to be a big win for Tug Valley when it comes to the seeding in the upcoming state tournament. This victory could possibly give TVHS the No. 2 seed if they get through their sectional and regional tournaments.

Ashton Davis scored 25 points and Parker Davis 24 to lead Tug Valley. Parker Davis had 15 in the first half as Webster led by one, 35-34. They were named Co-Players of the Game. Joey Golllihue also got into double figures with 10 points, while Braydun Ferris added four points and five assists. Jonathan Wagoner, Kaden Hale and Buddy Marcum each added a basket for two points.

Coach Garland “Rabbit” Thompson said this was an important game for his squad. “I am hoping and praying, if we win out, we can get a two seed. Beating Webster was just one step. That was a critical game.”

The Panthers shot 49% from the floor and made seven treys shooting 39% from behind the 3-point line. They were 12-21 at the foul line for 57%.

For Webster County (13-4), Rayden Triplett fired in 27 points and Riley Clevenger added 16.

The win improved Tug Valley to 15-3 and was their 11th straight.

Score by quarters:

Tug Valley:14 20 17 18 – 69

Webster Co: 12 23 5 19 – 59