Hartselle, who was coming off three victories in Orange Beach last week, played host to the rival Austin Black Bears on Tuesday night.

Seniors Brody Peebles and Trent Wright dominated the game for the Tigers as they defeated the Black Bears 75-63.

“Brody and Trent both were great as you would expect seniors to be against a rival,” said Hartselle coach Faron Key.  “Brody did what Brody does, and Trent dominated that game in a different way than Brody did.  He did it with his defense, rebounding, and passing.”

The win was Hartselle’s third straight over Austin going back to last season.

Hartselle got off to a sluggish start before taking a 16-12 lead at the end of the first. They led 32-28 at the half.

The Tigers extended their lead to 52-47, heading into the fourth quarter.

Hartselle made a defensive adjustment in the fourth that seemed to confuse the Black Bears. The Tigers went on to outscore Austin 23-16 to pick up the victory.

Brody Peebles finished with a game-high 41 points, his second 40+ point game of the season. He also had two rebounds, two steals, and two assists.

“Playing and beating Austin is always big!” said Peebles. “I think that we still have a lot to grow in, especially me. Just trying to grow game by game.”

Trent Wright checked off every stat box imaginable for the Tigers. He had 12 points, nine rebounds, four steals, four assists, and two blocks.

“I was able to be successful at the little things tonight to help my team,” said Wright. Whether it was an offensive rebound and putback or jumping the passing lane for a steal, I am just glad to help my team get the win tonight.”

Luke Ward scored seven points, while Elijah Kelick had five points, seven rebounds, and a block. Ryan Dunn added four points, five steals, and two assists. Coleman Mizell had four points and two steals, while Kiah Key added two points, four steals, and three assists.

“Each piece of this team fits together like a puzzle,” said Key. “Each has his role and each their own strengths to cover another’s weakness.”

Hartselle (4-0) was to play next Monday in the N2Hoops Invitational at Bob Jones. The tournament announced that they were canceling due to an increase in COVID-19 cases affecting area school systems.

“We are grateful for every game we get to play, and we aren’t going to take it for granted,” Key said in response to tonight’s game.

The Tigers’ next game will be on December 1 against Grissom.