TIGER — Banks County outscored Rabun County 45-18 in the second half to overcome a sluggish start Saturday in taking a 66-35 win in a Region 8-AA battle.
Class 2A fourth-ranked Banks County (7-0, 2-0 Region 8-2A) survived a poor shooting night. The Leopards were just 5-of-23 from 3-point range but managed to lead 14-12 after the first quarter and took a slim 20-17 lead into halftime.
But Banks County exploded for a 24-5 third quarter run to blow the game open.
Carl Cleveland had a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds. Dakota Orr had 16 points and 8 rebounds for Banks County.
Both teams will be back in region action on Tuesday. The Leopards will play host to Monticello while Rabun County will play host to Elbert County.
MONROE AREA 85
JOHNSON 47
Johnson fell to the Hurricanes Saturday at Dawson County in the North Georgia Showcase.
Jesse Harbin scored 15 points to lead Johnson. Jackson Vandiver added 9 points for the Knights.
Lakendre Lyles led Monroe with 22 points.
Johnson next will play host to North Hall on Tuesday.
EAST HALL 41
STEPHENS COUNTY 39
Aaron Thomas and Christian Torres each scored 11 points to lead the Vikings to the victory.
It was the second straight win for East Hall (3-5) and their first at home this season.
The Vikings next will travelt to Fannin County in a Region 7-3A contest.
