SAVANNAH — The Dawson County boys' historic run in the Class 3A state playoffs came to crushing end Saturday.
The Tigers fell 71-56 to Hart County in the semifinals at the Georgia Southern at Savannah campus. Dawson finished the year at 27-5 and as the Region 7-3A tournament champions. The semifinal run was the first ever for the program.
Hart County jumped on the Tigers quickly opening up a 20-6 first quarter advantage and never let go of the lead. Dawson County cut the lead to 31-22 by halftime but was outscored 40-34 in the second half.
Luke Chism and Jaon Gibson each had stellar games for the Tigers. Chism poured in 18 points and hauled in 16 rebounds while Gibson had 18 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals for Dawson County. Ahmad Kamara added 12 points for the Tigers.
Dawson County coach Coach Pittman said despite the loss, it may just be the beginning of things for the Tigers program.
"We were not our best today but Hart County was really good so you have to credit them," Pittman said. "I'm proud of our kids for what they accomplished this season and for our community and the support they showed us all season. I believe we have put Dawson boys basketball on the map and have gotten everyone's attention and earned everyone's respect."
