Stephens Splits Hoops Openers With Franklin

The Stephens County High School basketball teams start the season with a split over a non-region rival.

Stephens County hosted Franklin County Saturday at the Currahee Arena and the result was two close games.

First, the Lady Indians came from 14 points down early in the fourth quarter to edge Franklin County 60-59.

Mya Cleveland led the Lady Indians with 16 points, while Nikelsha Owens had 12 and Kentasia Trimier had 11.

Meanwhile, the Lady Lions were led by Ivey Ginn, who scored 16 points. Tiara Ellis had 13 points, Bree Teasley scored 12 and Dominique Arthur added 10 for the Lady Lions.

Moving to the boys’ game, Stephens County was behind by nine starting the fourth quarter, but came all the way back to tie it late.

However, two Brooklon Wright free throws sealed the deal for the Lions in an 80-77 win over the Indians, who had the final possession but could not get up a tying three-pointer.

Nunu Walker led the Indians with 20 points, including six threes. Chris Jones added 17 points, De’Undre Singleton scored 12, and Quentin Montgomery contributed 10 for the Indians.

Phoenix Roberts scored 26 points to lead the Lions, including making 19 straight free throws. Franklin County also got 18 points from Wright and 17 from Mason Scott.

Stephens County is back in action on the road against White County on December 2. That is a region opponent, but will not count in the region standings.