By Michael Lindsay
The Jackson County Blue Devils are headed to the region championship for the second time in three years following Tuesday’s 51-47 victory over Smith County in the Region 3-2A semifinals at Liberty Creek High School.
District 5-2A tournament MVP Will McCrary led Jackson County in the victory as the sophomore forward recorded 14 points and 8 rebounds along with 11 points by Isaiah Thomas and 8 from Parker Patterson.
Tyler Jones led Smith County with 16 along with 12 by Taylor Kemp.
Jackson County held an 11-8 lead after one period before extending their lead to double digits (29-18) late in the second quarter. A Jones buzzer-beating three-pointer brought Smith County back within 8 points at halftime at 29-21.
Smith County controlled the third quarter as the Owls opened the frame on a 12-2 run to take a 33-31 lead with 1:01 left in the frame via a Kemp layup. Jackson County responded over the final minute to take a 34-33 lead at the end of the period.
The Blue Devils pushed ahead in the fourth quarter as a McCrary basket with 4:11 remaining gave the Blue Devils a 40-37 lead. Jackson County closed out from there as they defeated Smith County by a 51-47 final score.
Up next for Jackson County is the Region 3-2A championship as they’re set to face White House Heritage on Thursday at 7 p.m. at Liberty Creek High School in Gallatin.
Jackson County also advances to the Class 2A sectional on Monday, March 4 as they’ll face either East Nashville or Whites Creek, location TBD.