Second-quarter surge sends Bears to regional

MT. JULIET — Strong defense was the key to Mt. Juliet's 60-38 victory over visiting Hendersonville in the District 9-AAA tournament Friday at Tommy Martin Gym/The Cave.
After falling behind 21-11 at the close of the first quarter, the Golden Bears buckled down and allowed only three points in the second period as a 21-3 spurt sent them to the locker room leading 32-24 at halftime.
"It was a hard game to play after having four days off," Golden Bear coach Troy Allen said after his team moved to 17-9 on the season. "It's always hard when you know it's a must-win game."
The Golden Bears advanced to tonight's 7:30 p.m. semifinal at Beech against LaVergne, which came from behind to oust Smyrna 58-54 Friday night. Tonight's winners will earn a first-round Region 5-AAA game next Saturday. Last night's winners clinched region berths.
Mt. Juliet extended the lead to a dozen, 46-34, at the close of the third period.
Leading the way for the Bears was senior Demond Craig, who fired in 23 points to lead all scorers.
"Demond's played great the last month," Allen said. "He's been leading us."
Jonta Bowman tossed in 11 points for Mt. Juliet, Jeremy Dixon put in nine, Cory Payne added eight, Robert Hill six, Berek Lunn two and Ryan Overstreet a free throw.
Chris Hewgley led the Commandos with 13 points and Joey Walker added 12.
Staff Writer Kimberly Jordan can be reached at 444-3952 ext. 44 or by email at kimberly.jordan@lebanondemocrat.com.