The second ranked Saint Xavier Tigers (6-0) secured a hard-fought 76-64 victory over the Lloyd Memorial Juggernauts (4-1) in the opening round of the2024 Gardner Law King of the Bluegrass tournament. Saint X junior Chief Cameron earned Central Bank Player of the Game honors for his standout performance.
The game opened with a competitive first quarter, as both teams traded scores and established their rhythms. Jeremiah Jackson got Saint Xavier rolling with a three-pointer, while Lloyd Memorial’s EJ Walker and Jayden Humphrey responded with inside baskets. Cameron made an early impact, sinking two three-pointers and adding a crucial steal that he converted into a fast-break layup. The Tigers ended the quarter with a slim 18-16 lead.
In the second quarter, Saint Xavier began to take control. Cameron’s efficient scoring, combined with Chance Dillingham’s sharpshooting, sparked a dominant 12-2 run that extended the Tigers’ lead to 34-19. Dillingham hit three three-pointers in the half, while the Tigers’ defense forced nine turnovers, converting them into key points. Despite a late push from Lloyd Memorial, led by Carter Bresser’s perimeter shooting, Saint Xavier held an 10-point lead at halftime, 36-26.
The Juggernauts fought back in the third quarter with a 16-2 run, led by Anthony Blaackar’s strong interior play and Humphrey’s consistent scoring. Walker added a crucial three-pointer, cutting the Tigers’ lead to just five points. However, Cameron stepped up with timely baskets, including a putback and a mid-range jumper, to keep Saint Xavier ahead. By the end of the third quarter, the Tigers led 53-45.
Cameron delivered in the final quarter, scoring seven of his game-high 21 points when it mattered most. He added a three-pointer and a fast-break layup to extend the lead, while Dillingham’s clutch free throws secured the victory. Saint Xavier’s balanced effort was reflected in their 51.8% shooting from the field and strong rebounding presence, with Cameron contributing six rebounds, three assists, and two steals.
For Lloyd Memorial, Walker and Blaackar each scored 16 points, while Humphrey added 13. Despite their efforts, the Juggernauts were hampered by 17 turnovers and were out-rebounded by the Tigers, 30-26.
Saint Xavier advances to Friday's quarterfinals where they'll meet the winner of Ashland Blazer vs. Woodford County at 7:30pm. Lloyd Memorial will look to bounce back in the consolation bracket playing the loser of Ashland Blazer-Woodford County at 7:30pm Friday.
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