State-ranked J.J. Pearce edges Lions, 66-62
January 9, 2010

By STEVE SHWARTS
Herald-Banner Staff

GREENVILLE -- Kenny Slocum pumped in 24 points, while Jake Allen fired in 15 to lead No. 17 state-ranked J.J. Pearce to a 66-62 victory over the Greenville Lions Friday night in the Lions Den.

The Mustangs started strong, outscoring the Lions 19-11 in the first quarter. The Mustangs stretched their halftime lead up to 34-25.

But Greenville, led by Devonte Green’s 25 points, never gave up.

“The kids played hard considering we were playing the No.17 ranked team in the state,” said Greenville coach Earl Claiborne. “I’m proud of my guys. We never quit. We’re still in the hunt at 2-2 in district.”

Greenville outscored Pearce 16-14 and 21-18 over the final two quarters but couldn’t catch the Mustangs, who stayed undefeated in district play at 4-0.

Byron Mack also tallied 11 points for Greenville, while Alton Dennis chipped in nine points.

Varsity boys

J.J. Pearce 19 15 14 18 --66

Greenville 11 14 16 21 --62

P: Kenny Slocum 24, Jake Allen 15, Darius Revels 7, Bryan Felts 6, Cole Holland 5, Brooks Vehslage 5, Curtis Gile 2, Taylor Pitts 2.

G: Devonte Green 25, Byron Mack 11, Alton Dennis 9, N.J. Mason 8, Dijuon Sheppard 6, Cal Crabtree 3, Manon Steward 2.

Records: JJP 15-7, 4-0; G 9-13, 2-2.

Next game: Greenville at Rockwall, Friday.

Junior varsity boys

J.J. Pearce 11 16 26 10 --63

Greenville 4 22 6 14 --46

P: Coleman 19, Bell 11.

G: Ladarian Davis 12.