PEA RIDGE, Ark. — Neosho had the lead entering the fourth quarter, but Arkadelphia erupted for 21 points in the final frame to earn a 59-56 win over the Wildcats in the championship game of the Battle at the Ridge Tournament on Saturday at Pea Ridge High School.
“We played a tough, fun game tonight,” Neosho coach Zane Culp said. “I’m really proud of the boys’ effort on the defensive end. That was a high-powered offense and we really held them down. Just a couple of more balls bounce our way and we’d be leaving with a championship.”
Arkadelphia led 17-12 at the end of the first quarter and held a 34-29 lead at intermission.
Neosho won the third period 16-4 to take a 45-38 lead into the fourth quarter.
But Arkadelphia finished strong by outscoring the Wildcats 21-11 in the final frame.
K’dyn Waters led Neosho with 21 points, while Isaiah Green added 17 points and Kael Smith had 11.
“Waters and Green really carried the load offensively and were great all night,” Culp said. “Kael Smith battled on the boards and hit some tough shots inside in that second half. He’s an absolute warrior. Brock Franklin did a great job being a leader on the court and guarding their best player all night.”
Isaiah Salinas and Antoine Palmer scored 13 points apiece for Arkadelphia.
Neosho hosts Monett on Tuesday night.
“We’re excited to finally get on our home floor Tuesday,” Culp said.
