The Salem Wildcats won a pair of games yesterday to put them in today’s consolation championship at the 15th annual Duster Thomas. Salem opened the day with a 42-26 win over Steeleville. Connor Tennyson had 12 of his 14 points in the first half; Jairen Stroud added all 13 of his points in the 2nd quarter as the Wildcats controlled the 2nd half outscoring the Warriors 22-10 in the final 2 frames.
Salem came back to beat Chester in the 2nd game of the day 34-30. Salem trailed 22-19 heading into the 4th quarter, but Stroud scored 7 of his 13 in the 4th quarter. Noah Nix had his best overall game of the year on both ends of the floor as the sophomore finished with 7. Connor Tennyson added 9 in the win.
Salem is now 3-11 as they head to today’s 1:30 trophy game against Carlyle after the Indians beat Roxana 50-42 in the other consolation semifinal.
Olney beat Pinckneyville in one semifinal 60-45 and will play Benton in the championship after they beat Mt Carmel 51-46.
In the 5th place bracket today, Jerseyville and Murphysboro play for 5th, Ballard Memorial and Meridian for 7th place. Steeleville and Okawville for 13th and Woodlawn will take on Trico for 15th place.
