RABBITTOWN -- Dawson County advanced to the Class AA state tournament for the fifth time in six years after dispatching Elbert County 57-44 Wednesday in the quarterfinals of the Region 8-AA boys tournament at the East Hall gym.
The Tigers led nearly throughout stifling the Blue Devils with a tough defensive effort. Elbert County scored first for a 2-0 lead but Dawson County reclaimed the lead on its next two possessions and never trailed again. The Tigers held Elbert County to just 15 points while building a 22-15 halftime lead.
The Tigers, behind Tyler Dominy, who had a game-high 15 points, pulled away in the second half. They led by as many as 15 late in the fourth quarter on the strength of their free throw shooting.
Gunnar Armstrong went a perfect 10-for-10 from the line in the final period for all 10 of his points. The Tigers were 20-of-30 for the game while Elbert County was just 9-of-17 from the line.
"We played pretty well. I was happy with our effort," Dawson County coach Thad Burgess said. "It's always good to make the state tournament and we're proud to get to go back."
Jonathan Sanderson and Will Anglin each had 11 points for Dawson County.
The Tigers next will face the winner of the East Hall-Union County quarterfinal matchup on Friday at 5:30 p.m. at the Hart County gym.
Terrell Hughes paced Elbert County with 10 points.
Monday
February 3rd, 2025
5:06PM
