GORE – The Hulbert Riders jumped out to an early 14-5 lead in the opening quarter aided by Tanner Vaughn’s 5 points, a 3-pointer and one from the floor, and four other Riders hitting for 2 points.

The Pirates Bryon McDuffie and Journey Shells both scored for Gore, McDuffie with a 3-pointer and Shells with 2 points.

The second quarter was more of the same with Hulbert netting 13 points and Gore just 4, for a commanding 27-9 Riders lead at the break.

The second half showed improvement for the Pirates who were within one point of Hulbert (10-9) in the third and followed by outscoring Hulbert in the final period 14-4 but it was not enough.

It was Cain Cooper for Gore scoring all 9 points in the third for the Pirates, all 3-pointers. He was also the top scorer for Gore with 15 points on the night.

Tyler Simpson led the Riders with 13 points. R.J. Clark was next with 8 points and Vaughn netted  7 points.

Both teams continue their tournament play Friday and Saturday with the championship round scheduled for Saturday night at 8:30.