The Geraldine tournament over Thanksgiving weekend showcased a variety of teams from the Gadsden area, providing an early glimpse of the basketball season. While some teams were still waiting for their football players to join the roster, the tournament offered an exciting preview of the upcoming season, with the prospect of area tournaments in late January.
Despite facing larger schools, the Sand Rock girls held their own against 5A Boaz and 6A Fort Payne, falling by only two points in both matchups. In a gripping showdown against Boaz, the Wildcats initially took the lead before struggling with their shooting accuracy. Nevertheless, their tenacious defense allowed them to narrow the gap in the final moments, showcasing their determination and resilience. With a challenging schedule ahead, Sand Rock’s performance against tough competition bodes well for their future success.
Geraldine also made a strong start to the season, boasting a 3-0 record before succumbing to Douglas in the final game of the Thanksgiving shootout. Notably, the team’s senior leaders, Connor Johnson, Lucas Bryant, and Redick Smith, continued to deliver double-digit scoring performances, despite the absence of some players still participating in the AHSAA football playoffs. Their upcoming return will undoubtedly bolster Geraldine’s formidable lineup.
In contrast, Southside’s prospects were dampened by injuries to several senior players, placing additional pressure on the younger members of the team. Despite this setback, there remains optimism for the Panthers’ potential, as they look to regroup and fill the void left by their injured teammates.
Meanwhile, the Cherokee County girls demonstrated their depth and versatility, with multiple players showcasing their scoring prowess. While Mary H Johnson leads the team as the primary option, her teammates have proven themselves capable of making significant contributions on the court, indicating a promising season ahead for the Cherokee County girls.
As the tournament concluded, it was evident that the teams had provided an exciting and promising start to the season, setting the stage for compelling matchups and intense competition in the weeks to come.
Authored by Maxwell Donaldson, a dedicated sports journalist covering high school sports and Jacksonville State athletics for the esteemed Gadsden Times, this insightful recap offers valuable perspectives on the performances at the Geraldine tournament over the Thanksgiving weekend. For more updates and engaging sports commentary, follow Maxwell Donaldson on Twitter @_Max_Donaldson and reach out to him at [email protected].