Bulldogs Make Elite 8
Courtesy of TCHS
The Toombs County High School Bulldog basketball team is heading to the Elite 8 after defeating Central Macon and the #3 ranked team in the state, Thomson, last week at home.
Vs. Central
The Toombs County Bulldogs boys’ basketball team roared into the Sweet 16 of the GHSA State AA Playoffs with a dominant 79-35 victory over Central HS from Macon on Wednesday night. Their stifling defense, led by a stellar performance from Dominic Eason, shut down Central’s offense, paving the way for a convincing win.
The Bulldogs’ defensive prowess was on full display, holding Central to a mere 18 points through three quarters. This defensive lockdown set the tone for the entire game and showcased the team’s commitment to shutting down their opponents.
The Bulldogs were on top 19-7 by the end of the first quarter and never looked back. They extended their lead in the second quarter as they outscored the Chargers of Central 18-5. That gave Toombs a 37-12 lead at halftime. continued from page
In the third quarter, the score was 44-12 with 6:13 left on the clock. It was 5314 with 3:05 left in the third after baskets by Eason, Jesus Quintero, and Parker Stanley. Eason threw down a couple of dunks to make it 61-16, and then a good move in the lane by Mike Polke pushed the lead to 63-16 with 1:05 left in the third quarter. By the end of the third, the Bulldogs were in front, 66-18.
Toombs went on to take the win, 79-35, over Central of Macon.
Eason, the Region Player of the Year, shone once again, leading the team with 24 points, 8 rebounds, an assist, and a steal. His offensive firepower and defensive leadership continue to be crucial for the Bulldogs’ success.
Beyond Eason, the offense enjoyed a balanced attack. Quintero chipped in with 13 points and 4 steals, while Stanley added 12 points and 7 rebounds. Juju Cutler also contributed with 9 points, 6 rebounds, and a block, showcasing the team’s depth and versatility. vs. Thomson
Toombs, the #4 team in the state, had the task of hosting the #3 team in the state, Thomson on Saturday. It was a battle throughout, but the Toombs defense came through in the second half as they came away with the win.
Thomson came out and took the early lead and were on top 17-13 by the end of the first quarter. Toombs kept battling in the second quarter, but by halftime they was trailing 3123.
Toombs made some adjustments during halftime of the game, and in the second half, the defense took over the game. Toombs held Thomson to just 13 points in the second half on the way to a comefrom- behind win. Toombs closed the lead to 40-37 by the end of the third quarter. In the fourth, Toombs outscored Thomson, 16-4, as they came back to claim a 53-44 win.
Toombs was led by Eason with 24 points, Quintero added 14, and Polke posted 8 in the win. Toombs is now 27-2 on the year and heading into the Elite 8 of the State Playoffs. This week Toombs will take on the Spartans of Athens Academy on the road on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. The Spartans are ranked #10 in the state and come into the game with a record of 23-5.
