The smile on his face said it all.
Cory Stanton (Springfield) hit a driving lay-up at the buzzer to lead the Tennessee Tigers to a 58-56 victory over the Michigan Road Runners on the opening day of action at the Kentucky Hoopfest.
Stanton, who would finish with 13 points, was all smiles after the bucket despite being a bit nervous in his first July on the summer circuit.
His play didn't seem to merit any nervousness that we could see. Stanton finished with 5 assists and managed 3 steals on his way to the game winner.
Michael Bradley (Tyner Academy) continues to grab the attention of the college coaches with another solid effort. The Chattanooga big man dropped 13 markers of his own and grabbed a team high 8 boards.
Calvin Settles (Ensworth) was also impressive with his scoring, 12 points, on an array of jumpers, put backs and tough boards. Dezmond Johnson (Overton) only scored two points but his ability to keep possessions alive with tough rebounds and tip outs make him a valuable asset. Reggie Rucker (Hillwood) also made some nice plays and filled in admirably, along with Blake Bell (Lipscomb), who added 7 points, for the injured Carter Sanderson (Lipscomb).
Sanderson did manage five points and played in some obvious pain while on the floor. His toughness and desire to help his squad win should be commended by all who observed him today.
The Tigers take on the Wisconsin Blizzard tomorrow at 11:45.
