The Sims’ boys basketball team closed out regular-season play Thursday night with a 54-46 loss to Florence Chapel.

Sims started the first period with a great scoring run, but a rough second period allowed the Cougars to take a 20-point lead.

"The second quarter hurt, but we came out with great resolve,” coach Mitchell Moss said. “They gave us different looks after we handled their press, but some key turnovers allowed them to push their lead up to twenty.”

Sims came out in the second half and allowed the lead to get up to 26 points, but midway through the third period the Tigers woke-up. With two minutes left in the third period Sims made a run and cut the lead to under eight points. The Tigers, however, were unable to finish the comeback.

“The guys came out and played with passion,” Moss said. “We dug ourselves a big hole, but could not get out of it. We showed what type of team we can be. The season is not over and we can make a big run to the championship game. We just have to believe."  

Sims was led in scoring by Shakir Smith with 14 points. Kennedy Beatty scored nine points, Shemar Glenn had seven points, Jordan Spencer scored six points, Triston Armstrong had five points, Andrew Crocker scored three points and Devarius Rogers added two points.

Sims finishes the regular season with a 2-12 record and plays in the Peach Tree Conference Tournament at Dawkins Feb. 4.

Lady Tigers’ Action

The Lady Tigers were defeated 27-13 by Florence Chapel on Thursday night.

“It was one of those nights for us,” coach Kelly Jenkins said. “We took a lot of good shots, but couldn't make any fall.”

Down 14-1 at the end of the first half, Sims made a late fourth period run on Florence Chapel.

“I was proud of the fight in the girls in the fourth quarter,” Jenkins said. “They played aggressive defense and made a good run. We just have to find a way to put together a complete game.” 

Cierra Mitchell led the Lady Tigers in scoring with five points. Diamond Lee had four points and Jericka Hall and Andrena Jeter each scored two points.

The Lady Tigers will begin post-season play Feb. 4 at either Dawkins or Gable.