Lofton to Compete in State Farm 3-Point Championship

Chris Lofton will compete in the State Farm 3-Point Championship at the NCAA Final Four.
Here is a link to the story on UTsports.com.

Carly Case Manager for National Champions

Northern Kentucky University women's basketball team defeated the University of South Dakota 63-58 Saturday in the NCAA Division II national championship game. Carly Case, a freshman from Maysville, is a manager for NKU.

Fryman 5th in the Shot Put, 6th in the Hammer Throw

University of Kentucky senior Andy Fryman of Maysville finished fifth in the shot put (56-4.75) and sixth in the hammer throw (193-00) in the Yellow Jacket Invitational at Georgia Tech.
It was UK's first outdoor meet of the season.

Mason County Second Baseman Michael Fegley Injured in Wreck

Mason County Royals senior second baseman Michael Fegley was seriously injured in a two-vehicle accident on State Route 41 north of Aberdeen Thursday night. Fegley, 17, is a patient at University Hospital in Cincinnati. Our prayers go out for Fegley and his family.

O'Hearn and Three Players on Scholastic Ball Report

Mason County Coach Chris O'Hearn and players Keith Downing, Russ Middleton and Ryan Hamm will appear on the Scholastic Ball Report TV show Saturday at 11:30 a.m. on WKYT.
The state champions are the "Team of the Week". The show also will feature video highlights of the state championship game. O'Hearn and the players taped the segment Wednesday night. The Scholastic Ball Report is hosted by Gary Ball and Louis Stout.

Lofton's College Career Ends with Vols' Loss

Chris Lofton's college career ended with the Tennessee Volunteers' 79-60 loss to the Louisville Cardinals last night in the NCAA Tournament. Lofton made two three-pointers and scored 15 points. He had a rough night shooting from the field (3-of-15, including 2-of-11 from three-point range). He was 7-of-7 from the free throw line. Lofton ends up fourth on the Volunteers' all-time scoring list with 2,131 career points. He finished third on the NCAA career three-pointers list with 431. Lofton became the Volunteers' all-time leading scorer in NCAA Tournament action with 130 points. He is also the program's all-time leader in steals in NCAA Tournament play with 15.

Lil' Royals Football Camp Saturday

The Lil' Royals Football Camp, conducted by the Mason County football coaching staff, will be Saturday at the Tom Browning Boys and Girls Club. The camp for grades K-2 is from 9 to 10:30 a.m. The camp for grades 3-5 is from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Footballs provided by Southgate Car Wash will be given to participants while supplies last. Participants must fill out a membership application for the Tom Browning Boys and Girls Club Saturday morning or earlier. Applications are available at the club.

Royals Win Baseball Opener

The Mason County Royals opened the baseball season with a 6-2 win over the Nicholas County Bluejackets Wednesday.

Mason Girls' Tennis Team Wins, Boys Lose

The Mason County girls' tennis team defeated Bourbon County six matches to three Wednesday in Paris. Bourbon County won all five boys' matches.
Singles winners for the Mason County girls were Becca Wallingford, Taylor Sargent, Erica Combs and Alyssa McCall. Doubles winners were Taylor Sargent and Erica Combs,
and Alyssa McCall and Lyndsey Meek. Kayla Barnoski & Holly Moulis won an exhibition match.

UT vs. UofL Tonight, C-Lo Says He's Fine

The Tennessee Volunteers play the Louisville Cardinals tonight in the NCAA Tournament's Sweet 16. Chris Lofton's ankle injury was a big topic of discussion at yesterday's press conference. Lofton says he's fine. Here is the report in the Tennessean newspaper.

State Champions Visit State Capitol

The Mason County Royals traveled to Frankfort today. The team met Gov. Steve Beshear, toured the State Capitol and was honored by both the House and Senate for winning the state championship. Rep. Mike Denham and Sen. Charlie Borders hosted the Royals.

Photos top to bottom:

Rep. Mike Denham greets Darius Miller as the team arrives;

The Royals with Denham and Gov. Steve Beshear on the steps of the Capitol;

Beshear shakes hands with Chris O'Hearn;

The Royals on the House floor;

The team with Senate President David Williams and Sen. Charlie Borders.

Lady Royals Post Another 3-1 Game

For the second straight day, the Mason County Lady Royals recorded a 3-1 win. Tuesday it was a victory over Fleming County. Sarah Mitchell, Chelsie Porter and Kristian Bellamy each drove in a run. Lacey Cline was 3-for-3 and scored two runs. Karissa Greenhill struck out eight batters. Fleming County's run was unearned.

Miller to Play for U.S. All-Stars in Charm City Challenge

Mason County senior and state tournament MVP Darius Miller has been selected to play for the United States All-Stars in the Charm City Challenge in Baltimore, Md. The United States All-Stars will play the Baltimore All-Stars on Sunday, April 6 at the Towson Center. Here is a link to the United States All-Stars roster.

10th Region Boys' Basketball Awards Banquet

I had the pleasure of again serving as emcee of the 10th Region Boys' Basketball Awards Banquet tonight at Mason County High School. Here is a list of the award winners:

Class A Coach of the Year
Mike Code, Bishop Brossart

Coach of the Year
Chris O'Hearn, Mason County

All Region Team
Dustin Staggs, Augusta
Petey Albrecht, Campbell County
Patrick Nerl, Campbell County
Robert Hatton, Clark County
Robbie Stenzel, Clark County
Kyle King, Deming
Brett Franklin, Harrison County
Russ Middleton, Mason County
Darius Miller, Mason County
Trevor Setty, Mason County
Josh Clark, Montgomery County
Jordan Stephens, Montgomery County
Kyle Campbell, Nicholas County
Chris Owens, St. Patrick
Nick Anderson, St. Patrick

Honorable Mention All Region
Chris Mofford, Augusta
Joe Flanigan, Calvery Christian
Brandon Rash, Montgomery County
Steven Pelle, Silver Grove
Jacob Reiger, Bishop Brossart
Luke King, Deming
Nikola Gligorevic, Scott High

Hall of Fame Veterans Inductee
Shirley Kearns, Connersville

Contributors Hall of Fame
Danny Boyd, Mason County

Players Hall of Fame
Darrel Hill, Maysville
Kyle Sherman, Mason County
Adam Reed, Bracken County
Jason Earlywine, Bourbon County
Andrew Preston, Clark County

Coaches Hall of Fame
James Scott, Montgomery County

Parade for the Royals this Sunday

A parade to celebrate the Mason County Royals' state championship is scheduled Sunday in downtown Maysville. Lineup is at 1 p.m. at the Rotary Park. The parade will begin at 1:30. Civic groups, fire departments, etc. are invited to participate.

Edited to change location of lineup

Another TV Feature on Chris Lofton

Here is a link to a feature on Chris Lofton by WBIR in Knoxville. Click on "watch video" above Lofton's photo on the right side of the web page.

Lady Royals Open Season with a 3-1 Win over St. Patrick

Lacey Cline (in photo) drove in a run with a two-out triple in the bottom of the sixth inning to break a 1-1 tie and the Mason County Lady Royals went on to beat the St. Patrick Lady Saints 3-1 in the season opener for both teams Monday. Cline scored the insurance run on an error. Hilary Doyle drove in the Lady Royals' first run with a ground out in the fifth inning. Kaitlyn Humphries' run-scoring triple gave St. Patrick a 1-0 lead in the fourth inning. Mason County pitcher Karissa Greenhill struck out nine batters and gave up just four hits. The Lady Saints' run was unearned.

State Championship Photos by Mark Day

State Championship Celebration Photos

Here are a few photos from the Mason County Royals' state championship celebration today at The Fieldhouse. I had several other photos that didn't turn out very good. If parents of the players have pictures they would like to share, give me a call and I'll give you my e-mail address. I can set up a slide show.

Lofton Scores 9 as UT Advances to Sweet 16

Chris Lofton scored nine points on three three-pointers in the Tennessee Volunteers' 76-71 overtime win over the Butler Bulldogs today in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Lofton also had five rebounds, two assists and two steals. Tennessee advances to the Sweet 16 to play the winner of the Louisville vs. Oklahoma game.

State Championship Photos by Jason Butler

Royals are State Champions

Darius Miller scored 24 points to lead the Mason County Royals to a 57-48 win over the Covington Holmes Bulldogs in the championship game of the National City/KHSAA Boys' Sweet 16 at Rupp Arena Saturday night. It's Mason County's second state championship in six seasons.

Miller was named the Most Valuable Player. After trailing 14-13 in the second quarter, Mason County took control with a 16-2 run. The Royals led by 15 points in the third quarter, but Holmes pulled to within six points in the fourth quarter. Mason County made 5-of-6 free throws in the final 51 seconds. Mason County outrebounded Holmes 37-23. Miller and Trevor Setty each had eight rebounds. Russ Middleton scored 13 points, including seven in the first quarter. Keith Downing scored a career-high 10 points. Miller, Middleton and Ethan King were named to the All-Tournament Team. A celebration for the Royals will be held today at 3 p.m. at The Fieldhouse.

MC FG 48.7% 3 PT FG 16.7% FT 64.3% REB 37 TO 13

H FG 36.7% 3 PT FG 25% FT 53.3% REB 23 TO 6

MC (34-4) Middleton 13, Downing 10, Miller 24, Setty 6, King 2, Hamm 2

H (34-3) Avery 3, Pittman 12, Henderson 18, Johnson 15

MC 13 08 20 16-57

H 09 07 11 21-48

(Photo credit: Jason Butler)

Royals Beat Shelby County Advance to Finals

The Mason County Royals defeated the Shelby County Rockets 60-50 this afternoon and are about an hour away from playing Covington Holmes in the state championship game.
Holmes knocked off Lexington Catholic 57-50 in the other semi-final. Darius Miller led the Royals with 19 points and 10 rebounds. Ethan King scored 18 points. Russ Middleton added 14.

MC FG 43.5% 3 PT FG 23.5% FT 84.2% REB 26 TO 11
SC FG 40% 3 PT FG 38.9% FT 77.8% REB 27 TO 17

MC (33-4) Middleton 14, Downing 7, Miller 19, Setty 2, King 18
SC (25-9) Beckley 7, Sanford 9, Tomlinson 8, Minnis 14, Johnson 8, Beach 4

MC 16 06 16 22-60
SC 15 04 11 20-50

Mason County vs. Shelby County in State Semi-finals

The Mason County Royals play the Shelby County Rockets today at 11:30 a.m. in the semi-finals of the National City/KHSAA Boys' Sweet 16. Mason County beat Shelby County 53-52 in the first round of the 1981 Sweet 16 in the only game between the two schools. Here are the probable starting lineups:

Mason County
G Russ Middleton 6-3 1/2 180 Jr. 15.1 ppg
G Keith Downing 6-2 165 Jr. 3.1 ppg
F Darius Miller 6-7 215 Sr. 20 ppg
F Trevor Setty 6-7 180 Sr. 14.9 ppg
F Ethan King 6-3 165 Sr. 9.4 ppg

Shelby County
G Cache Tomlinson 6-0 148 So. 3.2 ppg
G Tim Sanford 6-0 191 Sr. 12.6 ppg
C Coty Minnis 6-4 185 Sr. 16.8 ppg
F Alex Shehan 6-4 170 Sr. 5.3 ppg
F Alex Matthews 6-4 175 Sr. 7.8 ppg

Royals Roll Past Paducah Tilghman 73-46

The Mason County Royals jumped out to a 10-0 lead and ran past the Paducah Tilghman Blue Tornado 73-46 tonight in the quarterfinals of the National City/KHSAA Boys' Sweet 16.

Mason County hit six three-pointers in the first quarter. The Royals led by 39 points (58-19) in the third quarter. Darius Miller celebrated his 18th birthday with a 17 point game. Russ Middleton and Ethan King each scored 12 points. Middleton was 4-of-4 from three-point range. Trevor Setty made three three-pointers and scored 11 points. Mason County will play Shelby County in the semi-finals Saturday at 11:30 a.m. Shelby County defeated Hazard 53-50. Lexington Catholic and Holmes meet in the first semi-final. Lexington Catholic beat Owensboro 54-47 and Holmes defeated Paintsville 61-53. Here are the statistics on the Mason County-Paducah Tilghman game.

MC FG 49.2% 3 PT FG 47.6% FT 71.4% REB 32 TO 14

PT FG 46.2% 3 PT FG 37.5% FT 36.8% REB 24 TO 23

MC (32-4) Middleton 12, Downing 2, Miller 17, Trevor Setty 11, E. King 12, Tolle 2, Barner 4,

R. King 2, Rice 3, Pawsat 4, Treg Setty 4

PT (28-7) Williams 10, Wright 13, Hazard 2, McClure 10, Jackson 2, Coughenour 4, Forrest 4,

Vaughn 2

MC 24 15 19 15-73

PT 06 05 10 25-46

(Postgame press conference by Jason Butler.) L-R Coach Chris O'Hearn, Russ Middleton, Ethan King and Darius Miller

Lofton Scores 5 Points in Vols Win Over American U.

Chris Lofton scored five points in Tennessee's 72-57 win over American University today in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Lofton moved past Reggie Johnson into fourth place on Tennessee's all-time scoring list. Lofton has 2,107 career points. The Volunteers will play Butler in the second round on Sunday.

Mason County vs. Paducah Tilghman in Quarterfinals

The Mason County Royals play the Paducah Tilghman Blue Tornado tonight at 8 o'clock in the quarterfinals of the National City/KHSAA Boys' Sweet 16 at Rupp Arena. Paducah Tilghman (28-6) routed Greenwood 77-53 last night. The Blue Tornado is very athletic. Paducah Tilghman beat Mason County 64-51 in the quarterfinals of the 2002 Sweet 16. Here are the probable starters:

Mason County

G Russ Middleton 6-3 1/2 180 Jr. 15.1 ppg
G Keith Downing 6-2 165 Jr. 3.1 ppg
F Darius Miller 6-7 215 Sr. 20 ppg
F Trevor Setty 6-7 180 Sr. 14.9 ppg
F Ethan King 6-3 165 Sr. 9.4 ppg

Paducah Tilghman

G Jeffrey Williams 5-8 140 Sr.
G Bryon White 5-10 160 Jr.
C Issac McClure 6-5 195 Sr.
F Tony Hazard 6-3 165 Jr.
F Stefon Perry 6-4 200 Sr.

Royals Escape with 66-62 Win over Elliott County

The Mason County Royals rallied from a seven-point fourth quarter deficit to beat the Elliott County Lions 66-62 tonight in the first round of the National City/KHSAA Boys' Sweet 16 at Rupp Arena. Mason County had defeated Elliott County 90-61 a month ago at The Fieldhouse.

The Royals led by nine in the second quarter and by five at the half tonight, but Elliott County led 57-50 with 4:17 left in the game. The Lions were up 59-53 with 3:14 remaining. Mason County then went on a 9-0 run. Trevor Setty started the run with a three-pointer. Russ Middleton hit a three and Setty hit another trey to make it 62-59 Mason County with 1:45 to go.

Elliott County hit two free throws to make it 62-61. Mason County twice missed the front end of the one and one but the Royals got the rebound both times. After the second miss, Setty got a put back to give Mason County a 64-61 lead. Darius Miller hit two free throws to clinch the victory. Setty hit five three-pointers and scored 19 points. He scored 11 points in the fourth quarter. Miller had a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Russ Middleton had 15 points and Ethan King added 11. Jonathan Ferguson led Elliott County with 19 points.

Mason County hit just 5-0f-16 free throws. The Royals will play Paducah Tilghman in the quarterfinals Friday night at 8 o'clock. The Blue Tornado routed Greenwood 77-53. In other games today, Hazard beat South Laurel 50-47 and Shelby County defeated Lincoln County 77-53.

MC FG 50.9% 3 PT FG 36.8% FT 31.3% REB 34 TO 8

EC FG 38.9% 3 PT FG 29.2% FT 86.7% REB 30 TO 8

MC (31-4) Middleton 15, Downing 2, Miller 17, Setty 19, King 11, Tolle2

EC (26-4) Et. Faulkner 15, Ev. Faulkner 10, C. Knipp 2, Ferguson 19, T. Knipp 6, Maynard 10

MC 19 16 08 23-66

EC 15 15 11 21-62

The photo by Jason Butler shows Coach Chris O' Hearn, Russ Middleton, Trevor Setty and Darius Miller at the postgame press conference.

Punk Griffin Remembered at Sweet 16

A moment of silence was observed in memory of the late Arthur "Punk" Griffin prior to the Mason County vs. Elliott County game in the National City/KHSAA Boys' Sweet 16 tonight.

Griffin, the longtime scorekeeper for the Maysville Bulldogs and a fixture at the state tournament died in January. Griffin attended the Sweet 16 every year since Maysville won the state tournament in 1947. A spot on press row in the end zone remains vacant in Griffin's honor.

Griffin's photo (above) was shown on the big screen at Rupp Arena.

Mason County vs. Elliott County in Sweet 16

The Mason County Royals play the Elliott County Lions tonight at 8 o'clock in the final first round game of the National City/KHSAA Boys' Sweet 16 at Rupp Arena. Mason County routed Elliott County 90-61 on Feb. 16 at The Fieldhouse. Elliott County led the state in scoring, scoring margin and free throw percentage. In the regular season game, Mason County shot 62.3% from the field, while Elliott County shot 31%. Here are the probable starters:

Mason County
G Russ Middleton 6-3 1/2 180 Jr. 15.1 ppg
G Keith Downing 6-2 165 Jr. 3.1 ppg
F Darius Miller 6-7 215 Sr. 20 ppg
F Trevor Setty 6-7 180 Sr. 14.9 ppg
F Ethan King 6-3 165 Sr. 9.4 ppg

Elliott County
G Ethan Faulkner 6-1 156 Jr. 15.7 ppg
G Evan Faulkner 6-1 158 Jr. 16.7 ppg
G Chris Knipp 6-1 165 Jr. 6.1 ppg
G Jonathan Ferguson 6-2 173 Jr. 24.9 ppg
C Timmy Knipp 6-7 175 Fr. 9.3 ppg

Lofton on SI Cover Again

Chris Lofton will be on the cover of a regional edition of Sports Illustrated's 2008 NCCA Tournament Preview. Here is a link.

Miller Kentucky Gatorade Player of the Year

Darius Miller is the Gatorade Player of the Year in Kentucky. The Gatorade Player of the Year program recognizes one award winner in each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia.
The state winners are selected not only for their athletic excellence, but also for their academic achievement and exceptional character. The selection process is adminsitered by RISE magazine. All state winners are automatically eligible for the Gatorade National Player of the Year Award. Miller is the second Mason County player to win the state award. Chris Lofton won it in 2004.

Sweet 16 Day One

Day one of the National City/KHSAA Boys' Sweet 16 is in the books. Lexington Catholic led by as many as 23 points and beat University Heights Academy 69-54 in the tournament opener.
Taylor Stewart scored 25 points and Vee Sanford added 22 points for Lexington Catholic.
McDonald's All-American Scotty Hopson scored 21 points for UHA.
Brock Moorman scored 29 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to lead the Owensboro Red Devils to a 63-48 victory over the Louisville Central Yellowjackets.
Brandon Slone scored 35 points to lead the Paintsville Tigers past the Jeffersontown Chargers 93-87. The Tigers shot 64.7% from the field.
Covington Holmes defeated Bardstown 64-44 in the final game of the night.
Four more first round games will be played Thursday including Mason County vs. Elliott County at 8 p.m.

Twas the Night Before the Sweet 16

I'm really looking forward to the National City/KHSAA Boys' Sweet 16 which starts tomorrow at Rupp Arena. There's a lot to look forward to beginning with the opening game - University Heights Academy vs. Lexington Catholic - at noon. UHA is the All "A" Classic champion. Lexington Catholic is the tournament favorite. The top two teams - Lexington Catholic and Mason County - are in opposite brackets. If the Knights and Royals take care of business in the first three rounds, they will meet in the championship game Saturday night. The two leading candidates for Mr. Basketball - Darius Miller of Mason County and Scotty Hopson of UHA - can showcase their talents on the state's biggest stage. Can Mason County win its second state championship in five years? Keep checking the blog. I'll have updates each night.

Lofton Named 2nd Team All-America by USBWA

Chris Lofton was named Second Team All-America by the U.S. Basketball Writers Association. Here is a link to the press release.

Miller is KABC 10th Region Player of the Year

Mason County senior Darius Miller has been named 10th Region Player of the Year by the Kentucky Association of Basketball Coaches. Miller is averaging 20 points and 7.8 rebounds a game. Montgomery County's Keith Griesser is the 10th Region Coach of the Year.
The award winners from each region will be recognized at the National City/KHSAA Boys' Sweet 16. Here are links to the press releases on the award winners:

Player of the Year

Coach of the Year

Lofton Scores 25 in Vols' Loss to Arkansas

Chris Lofton made five three-pointers and scored 25 points but his potential game-winning shot at the buzzer rimmed out and Tennessee lost to Arkansas 92-91 tonight in the semifinals of the Southeastern Conference Tournament.

Fans Once Barred from District Game

Seeing the sparse crowds at the Southeastern Conference Tournament because most fans were barred from Alexander Memorial Coliseum after the tournament had to be moved from the Georgia Dome reminded me of a time when fans were kept away from a 39th District Tournament game at the Mason County Fieldhouse. It happened in 1975 or 1977. There was a huge fight involving the fans after a Maysville and Fleming County boys' game. It was such a serious situation that tournament officials barred fans from attending the Maysville vs. Fleming County girls' game. The game was played in the afternoon. Tournament officials, the two teams and the media were the only people allowed in the gym. The Fieldhouse was off limits to students that day. Don Stahl did the play-by-play on WFTM. If my memory is correct, one of my teachers allowed us to listen to part of the game.

State Tournament Ticket Information

Here is the press release from Mason County High School:

The Mason County High School Athletic Department has a limited number of tickets in sections 40, 41 and 241 to sell for the Royals first game at the Boys State Tournament Thursday evening at 8:00. Ticket price is $8 each. They will be sold Monday in the following order:

6:30 pm- Those holding Adult Season Tickets, Senior Citizens Cards, District Teacher and Staff passes- limit one per pass-to be sold in the high school office.

7:15 pm- All community individuals wishing to attend the game- limit 2 each person at the Fieldhouse ticket window.

C-Lo Does it Again

How many game-winning shots has Chris Lofton made? He made another one today to give the Tennessee Volunteers an 89-87 victory over the South Carolina Gamecocks in the quarterfinal round of the Southeastern Conference Tournament. Lofton, who was just 2-of-10 from three-point range, swished a three-pointer well beyond the top of the key with 11.4 seconds to play to give the Volunteers their 29th win of the season. Lofton scored 10 points. He also had four rebounds and three assists.

TV Feature on Chris Lofton

10th Region Postgame

Push play on the flash-based media player below to listen to my postgame interviews with the Mason County Royals.

Gabcast! 10th Region Postgame #0

Royals are 10th Region Champions

Mason County started the second quarter with an 11-0 run and went on to beat the Montgomery County Indians 82-61 tonight in the championship game of the 10th Region Tournament at Montgomery County. The game was tied 14-14 at the end of the first quarter, but Montgomery County didn't score in the second quarter until the 4:36 mark. Trevor Setty ended the half with a shot from the top of the key that went in and out and back in on the buzzer to put the Royals up 37-22. Darius Miller scored 18 points in the first half and finished with a double, double - 28 points and 13 rebounds. Setty hit five three-pointers in the second half and ended up with 22 points. Setty scored his 1,000th career point in the third quarter. Montgomery County opened the game in a triangle and two defense and Ryan Hamm came off the bench and hit two three-pointers and scored nine points. Mason County's defense held Montgomery County to 31.1% shooting (19-of-61). The Royals led by as many as 27 points in the fourth quarter. Mason County has now won 12 regional titles including two in the last three years and five in the last seven years. The Royals will play 16th Region champion Elliott County in the first round of the National City/KHSAA Boys' Sweet 16 on Thursday, March 20 at 8 p.m.

Mason County FG 56.6% 3 PT FG 50% REB 38 TO 9
Montgomery County FG 31.1% 3 PT 37.5% REB 65.4% TO 11

Mason County (30-4) Middleton 9, Downing 6, Miller 28, Trevor Setty 22, King 3, Hamm 9, Treg Setty 3, Pawsat 2

Montgomery County (24-8) Stull 15, Gibbons 3, Stephens 9, Clark 6, Rash 17, Curtis 1, Hendrix 8, Dailey 2

Mason County 14 23 25 20-82
Montgomery County 14 08 21 18-61

(Photo credit: Jason Butler)

Mason Co. vs. Montgomery Co. for Trip to Rupp

The Mason County Royals play the Montgomery County Indians tonight at 7 o' clock in the championship game of the 10th Region Tournament at Montgomery County. The Royals defeated the Indians 69-55 on Jan. 6 in the championship game of the Pepsi-Mason County Invitational Tournament and 71-65 on Feb. 5 at Montgomery County. The winner of tonight's game will advance to the National City/KHSAA Boys' Sweet 16 against the 16th Region champion. Elliott County and East Carter meet in the 16th Region championship game tonight at Morehead State University. Here are the probable starters for Mason County and Montgomery County:

Mason County

G Russ Middleton 6-3 1/2 Jr.
G Keith Downing 6-2 Jr.
F Darius Miller 6-7 Sr.
F Trevor Setty 6-7 Sr.
F Ethan King 6-3 Sr.

Montgomery County

G Blaine Stull 5-11 Sr.
G Brandon Rash 6-4 Jr.
C Jordan Stephens 6-8 Sr.
F Josh Clark 6-4 Sr.
F Garrett Gibbons 6-4 Sr.

Lofton First Team All-Sec

Chris Lofton was named First Team All-Southeastern Conference in voting by the league's coaches. Here is a link to the press release on the league awards.

Montgomery County Over Scott 77-56 in Region SF

The Montgomery County Indians used a fast start to beat the Scott Eagles 77-56 tonight in the semifinals of the 10th Region Tournament. The Indians led 25-7 at the end of the first quarter.
Nic Hendrix came off the bench to score a game-high 17 points for Montgomery County.
Mason County and Montgomery County will meet in the championship game Wednesday at 7 p.m. at Montgomery County.

Royals Run Past Clark County 68-45 in Region SF

The Mason County Royals cranked up their defense in the second quarter and broke open a tie game to beat the Clark County Cardinals 68-45 today in the semifinals of the 10th Region Tournament. It was tied 15-15 early in the second quarter, but Mason County ended the half on a 16-3 run. Trevor Setty's deep three-pointer with one second left in the half made it 31-18. The Royals scored the first nine points of the third quarter to lead 40-18. It was 55-28 with 5:12 left in the game making it a 40-13 run since that 15-15 tie. Trevor Setty led Mason County with 15 points. He was 6-of-8 from the field. Darius Miller scored 14 points, Russ Middleton 12 and Ethan King 11. Freshmen Robbie Stenzel scored a game-high 17 points for Clark County. Mason County advances to the region championship game for the third straight year.

MC FG 53.8% 3 PT FG 40% FT 57.1% REB 32 TO 13
CC FG 35.7% 3 PT FG 23.5% FT 68.8% REB 23 TO 18

MC (29-4) Middleton 12, Downing 7, Miller 14, Setty 15, King 11, Barner 2, Rice 3, Pawsat 4
CC (22-8) Miller 3, Williams 4, Rogers 1, Stenzel 17, Hatton 11, Bennent 3, Purvis 2, Kindred 2,
Daniel 2

MC 13 18 17 20-68
CC 11 07 08 19-45

Lady Royals Lose to Lady Indians 66-58

The Mason County Lady Royals lost to the Montgomery County Lady Indians 66-58 in the championship game of the 10th Region Tournament tonight. The game was tied at 56-56 with 3:45 to play but the Lady Indians ended the game on a 10-2 run. The Lady Indians outrebounded the Lady Royals 47-33. Mary Jehlik led Montgomery County with 21 points. Lacey Cline had a game-high 26 points for Mason County. De'Sarae Chambers added 21. It's Montgomery County's 4th straight regional title. Mason County is the runnerup for the third time in four years. It was the final game for seniors Cline, Chambers and Kasey Litzinger. All three were named to the All-Tournament Team. It was also the final game for Mason County Coach Paula Buser who announced last year that this would be her final season on the sidelines.

Mason County (24-8) Cline 26, Chambers 21, Smith 5, Menke 2, Litzinger 2, Doyle 2

Montgomery County (26-6) Jehlik 21, M. Prewitt 16, Lee 14, E. Prewitt 13, Colliver 2

(Edited to correct Mason County's individual scoring.)

Mason County Spring Football Begins March 24

The Mason County football team will begin spring practice on March 24. Practice is scheduled on March 24, 25, 27 , 28 and 31 and April 1, 3 , 4 and 5. The Annual Blue-White Game will be played on April 5. The time of the game has not been announced.

Mason County vs. Montgomery County for Region Title

The Mason County Lady Royals and the Montgomery County Lady Indians meet tonight in the championship game of the 10th Region Tournament at the Campbell County Middle School.
Doors open at 6:30. Tip-off is at 7:30. Mason County is 24-7 and has won seven straight games.
Montgomery County is the three-time defending champion of the 10th Region. The Lady Indians are 25-6 and have won four games in a row. Montgomery County defeated Mason County 83-62 on Feb. 9 at Montgomery County. The winner of tonight's game will advance to the Houchens Industries/KHSAA Sweet 16 at Bowling Green. Here are the probable starters:

Mason County

G Lacey Cline 5-7 Sr. 20.1 ppg
G Keller Menke 5-9 So. 10.4 ppg
F De'Sarae Chambers 5-9 Sr. 20.6 ppg
F Kasey Litzinger 5-8 Sr. 11.5 ppg
F Katelyn Smith 5-7 8th 2.3 ppg

Montgomery County

G Mackenzie Lee 5-7 Jr. 13.3
G Maggie Prewitt 5-8 Sr. 14.7
G Katie Jo Thompson 5-4 Jr. 5.6
F Elizabeth Prewitt 5-11 Jr. 7.1
C Mary Jehlik 6-3 So. 8.0

Chambers KABC 10th Region Player of the Year

Mason County senior De'Sarae Chambers has been named the 10th Region Player of the Year by the Kentucky Association of Basketball Coaches. Chambers is averaging 20.6 points and 8.2 rebounds a game this season. She is Mason County's all-time leading scorer. Montgomery County's Janie Robinson is the 10th Region Coach of the Year. The award winners from each region will be recognized at the Houchens Industries/KHSAA Girls' Sweet 16. Here is a link to the KABC web page that lists the award winners.

Lofton Scores 28 in Senior Day Win Over Gamecocks

Chris Lofton scored 28 points to lead the Tennessee Volunteers to an 89-56 Senior Day win over the South Carolina Gamecocks today. Lofton, playing his final game in Thompson-Boling Arena, was 10-of-16 from the field, including 6-of-10 from three-point range. He was 2-of-3 on foul shots. Lofton moved past Dale Ellis into fifth place on the Volunteers' all-time scoring list with 2,067 career points. Lofton also moved into sole possession of third place on the NCAA three-pointers made list with 419.

Montgomery County Routs Campbell County 78-52

The Montgomery County Lady Indians defeated the Campbell County Lady Camels 78-52 today in the semifinals of the 10th Region Tournament. Montgomery County led 28-6 at the end of the first quarter. Montgomery County and Mason County will meet in the region final for the third time in four years.

Lady Royals Pull Away Late for a 60-47 Win in Region Semis

The Mason County Lady Royals ended the game on a 16-4 run in a 60-47 win over the Harrison County Fillies today in the semifinals of the 10th Region Tournament. There were six ties and 11 lead changes. Mason County was clinging to a one point lead at 44-43 when Keller Menke hit a three-pointer with 4:25 left in the game to start the 16-4 run. Menke had a game-high 20 points. It was the Lady Royals' seventh straight win.

MC FG 48.8% 3 PT FG 43.8% FT 68.8% REB 27 TO 10
HC FG 36.6% 3 PT FG 16.7% FT 73.7% REB 25 TO 14

MC (24-6) Menke 20, Litzinger 11, Cline 15, Chambers 12, Smith 2
HC (16-14) Muntz 6, Hatfield 6, Davis 2, Kendall 16, Bullock 10, Murphy 2, Jett 5

MC 12 15 12 21-60
HC 10 18 08 11-47

10th Region Schedule Update

Here is the updated schedule for the snow-delayed boys' 10th Region Tournament:

Tuesday
5 p.m. Clark County vs. Mason County
8:30 p.m. Scott vs. Montgomery County

Wednesday
7:00 p.m. championship game

The girls' 10th Region semifinals are still on for Sunday afternoon, with the championship game Monday at 7 p.m.

Boys' 10th Region Tournament Semis Postponed

The boys' 10th Region Tournament semifinals are postponed today. Tournament officials have not set a makeup date. The forecast calls for more snow, and the girls' 10th Region Tournament will be given priority because the girls' state tournament is scheduled to start Wednesday.

Lofton Named to All-District 7 Team by NABC

Chris Lofton has been named to the National Association of Basketball All-District 7 Team. Lofton is now eligible for the State Farm Division I All-America teams to be announced on April 5. Here is a link to the press release.

Boys' 10th Region Schedule Revision

The semifinals of the boys' 10th Region Tournament will be played Saturday at 3 p.m. (Mason County vs. Clark County) and 6:30 p.m. (Scott vs. Montgomery County). This schedule is subject to change. Keep checking back for updates.

Brace and Cox to Play in East-West All-Star Football game

Mason County seniors Wylie Brace and Richie Cox have been selected to play in the East-West All-Star Football Game June 13th at Papa John's Cardinal Stadium in Louisville. Mason County Coach David Buchanan said Brace and Cox were alternates when the rosters were released earlier this year. They were selected to play for the East team when two other players dropped out. Buchanan says Brace will play on the defensive line and Cox will be a defensive back. Brace and Cox will report to practice on June 10th. Pulaski Southwestern Coach Dale Anderson will be head coach of the East team. The East-West All-Star Football Game was scheduled after the Kentucky-Tennessee All-Star Game was discontinued.

Girls Region Semifinals Pushed Back to Sunday

The girls' 10th Region Tournament semifinals have been postponed tonight and rescheduled for Sunday. Here is the revised schedule:

Sunday
2 p.m. Harrison County vs. Mason County
4 p.m. Campbell County vs. Montgomery County

Monday
7:30 p.m. championship game

Montgomery County Beats Pendleton County 71-42

Jordan Stephens scored 24 points and grabbed 12 rebounds to lead the Montgomery County Indians to a 71-42 win over the Pendleton County Wildcats tonight in the 10th Region Tournament. Josh Clark also had a double-double for Montgomery County with 21 points and 13 rebounds.The Indians outrebounded the Wildcats 61-29.

Scott Tops Augusta 64-45

The Augusta Panthers got off to a quick start, leading 12-5 with 3:55 to play in the first quarter, but the Scott Eagles cranked up their defense and rolled to a 64-45 win today in the first round of the 10th Region Tournament. Scott outscored Augusta 22-6 in the second quarter and led by as many as 24 points in the second half. Nikola Gilgorevic had a double-double for Scott with 24 points and 11 rebounds. Nick Hiller added 20 points. Ryan Kelsch hit four three-pointers and scored 14 points for Augusta. Chris Mofford added 10 points for the Panthers.

C-Lo Scores 21 as UT Clinches SEC Title

Chris Lofton scored 21 points as Tennessee clinched its first Southeastern Conference regular season championship since 1967 with an 89-86 win over the Florida Gators in Gainesville last night. It was the Volunteers' school-record 27th win of the season. Lofton was 6-of-11 from the field, including 4-of-8 from three-point range. He made 5-of-6 foul shots. Lofton is tied for third place on the NCAA career three-pointers made list with 413. Tennessee closes out the regular season Sunday at home against South Carolina on Senior Day.

Royals Rout Deming 101-54 in Region

The Mason County Royals raced out to a 38-12 lead in the first quarter and ran past the Deming Black Devils 101-54 tonight in the first round of the 10th Region Tournament at Montgomery County. Mason County scored 45 points off 33 Deming turnovers. Darius Miller scored 22 points and moved past Shawn Myrick into third place on the Royals' all-time scoring list. Miller was 10-of-13 from the field, including 2-of-2 on three-point shots. Russ Middleton scored 15 points.
Jackson Tolle scored a career-high 12 points and was 5-of-6 from the field. Trevor Setty scored 11 points and Ethan King added 10. The Royals had 24 assists. Mason County will play the Clark County Cardinals in the semifinals Saturday at noon. The Cardinals rallied from a nine-point deficit to edge the Campbell County Camels 63-61 in the tournament opener.

MC FG 51.8% 3 PT FG 27.8% FT 61.5% REB 50 TO 14
D FG 40.4% 3 PT FG 33.3% FT 41.7% REB 32 TO 33

MC (28-4) Middleton 15, Downing 2, Miller 22, Trevor Setty 11, E. King 10, Hamm 3, Tolle 12,
Barner 4, Stahl 4, R. King 4, Rice 2, Lang 2, Pawsat 4, Treg Setty 6
D (14-13) Curtis 3, White 5, Grause 10, L. King 7, K. King 11, Mitchell 11, Caldwell 4,
Schlach 1, Clifford 2

MC 38 24 23 16-101
D 12 11 09 22-54

(Edited to correct Ryne King's point total.)

Boys' 10th Region Tournament Begins Today

The boys' 10th Region Tournament begins today at the Montgomery County High School (MCHS) Arena (in the photos). Forty two of the last 43 regional tournaments have been played at the Mason County Fieldhouse. The 1969 tournament was held at Letcher Norton Gymnasium at Clark County. The Clark County Cardinals and the Campbell County Camels meet in the opening game at 5 pm in what I believe is the most intriguing first round game. The Mason County Royals play the Deming Black Devils tonight at 8:30. The gym will be cleared between games.

Campbell County and Montgomery County Advance in Girls' Regional

The Campbell County Lady Camels and the Montgomery County Lady Indians were first round winners tonight in the 10th Region Tournament. Campbell County edged the Bracken County Lady Bears 46-44 and Montgomery County ran past the Pendleton County Lady Wildcats
65-26. Campbell County and Montgomery County will meet in the semifinals Friday night.

Cline and Chambers Lead Mason Co. Past Brossart 55-37

Lacey Cline and De'Sarae Chambers combined for 40 points to lead the Mason County Lady Royals to a 55-37 win over the Bishop Brossart Lady Stangs in the first round of the 10th Region Tournament. Cline scored a game-high 21 points, including her 2,500th career point, and Chambers added 19 points. Mason County will play Harrison County in the semifinals Friday night. The Fillies upset the Clark County Lady Cardinals 49-36 in the tournament opener.

MC FG42% 3 PT FG 35.3% FT 50% REB 34 TO 13
BB FG 31.1% 3 PT FG 25% FT 18.2% REB 42 TO 17

MC (23-7) Menke 1, Smith 7, Litzinger 7, Cline 21, Chambers 19
BB (15-12) Sanker 14, Cuthrell 8, Watson 8, Uthe 4, Duff 2, Bertram 1

MC 16 18 12 09-55
BB 10 10 10 07-37

Nelson and Ford State Champions

Two members of the Limestone Family YMCA swim team-Nicholas Nelson and Maggie Ford (in the photo)- won state titles at the 2008 KYCSL State Swimming Championships held at the Ashland Area YMCA over the weekend. Nelson won the boys' 8 and under overall championship. Ford won the girls' 9/10 overall championship. They both won all four of their individual races. Amanda Miller was second in the girls' 15/18 age group, and Russell Rigg was second in the boys' 13/14 age group.

(Photo submitted)

Fryman 3rd and 5th in SEC Indoor Championships

University of Kentucky senior Andy Fryman of Maysville had a third place finish in the weight throw (63-10.50 ) and was fifth in the shot put (58-00.25 ) at the Southeastern Conference Indoor Championships at the University of Arkansas. The Kentucky men finished sixth overall.

Boys 10th Region Tournament Pairings

The draw for the boys' 10th Region Tournament was held this afternoon. The tournament will be played at the Montgomery County High School Arena. Here is the schedule:

Wednesday
5:00 Clark County (21-7) vs. Campbell County (18-10)
8:30 Mason County (27-4) vs. Deming (14-12)

Thursday
5:00 Scott (10-19) vs. Augusta (15-13)
8:30 Pendleton County (7-20) vs. Montgomery County (22-7)

Saturday
Noon upper bracket semifinal
3:30 lower bracket semifinal

Sunday
3:00 championship game

Lofton Scores 14 to Help Vols Beat UK 63-60

Chris Lofton scored 14 points to help the Tennesssee Volunteers hold off upset-minded Kentucky 63-60 today. Lofton was 3-of-5 from the field, including 1-of-2 from three-point range. He made 7-of-8 free throws and had three assists.

(Edited to eliminate Senior Day reference. Tennessee's Senior Day is this Sunday vs. South Carolina.)

Mason County Hosts Its Final Indoor Meet

The US Bank/Mason County Schools Indoor Athletic Complex hosted its largest indoor meet of the season Saturday. There was a total of 640 athletes from 28 high schools and 12 middle schools. The Mason-Dixon games are next weekend in Louisville.

Here is a link to the middle school results.
Here is a link to the high school results.

Girls' 10th Region Tournament Pairings

Thr draw for the girls' 10th Region Tournament was held this morning. The top two teams- Montgomery County and Mason County- are in opposite brackets. The tournament will be played at the Campbell County Middle School. Admissions is $5. Here is the schedule:

Monday
6:30 Harrison County (15-13) vs. Clark County (13-16)
8:15 Mason County (22-7) vs. Bishop Brossart (15-11)

Tuesday
6:30 Campbell County (14-12) vs. Bracken County (13-12)
8:15 Montgomery County (23-6) vs. Pendleton County (9-16)

Friday
6:30 upper bracket semifinal
8:15 lower bracket semifinal

Saturday
7:30 championship game