Maddox hits milestone against Cocke County
Clinton’s Bryson Maddox hit 1,000 career points during the Dragons’ opening round of the 2025 Region 2-AAA tournament on Saturday, March 1. (photo:Tony Cox )
“Going into the game, I was really concerned after we lost in the district championship game,” Lockard said.
But Lockard’s worries were quickly put to rest as the Dragons secured their 10th win in 11 games, defeating Cocke County 58-52 Saturday night at Don W. Lockard Gymnasium.
“I was concerned because Cocke County is a very good basketball team, but we played well,” Lockard said. “We shot the ball well. We rebounded well, made free throws, and played solid defense.”
Clinton (20-10) used a stifling defense to seize early control, leading 14-8 at the end of the first quarter. By halftime, the Dragons had stretched their advantage to 25-15.
“The kids really responded, and Bryson Maddox was absolutely phenomenal,” Lockard said. “We got him in good position.”
Maddox delivered a standout performance, scoring a game-high 25 points and reaching the 1,000-point milestone for his career. He also collected four rebounds and handed out three assists.
“Bryson got his 1,000th career point, and I didn’t even know it,” Lockard admitted.
Maddox, who has been carrying much of the offensive load in the latter half of the season, received crucial support from his teammates. Guard Carson Richardson contributed 12 points, while Kaden Ison added 10 points and grabbed five rebounds. Jaxson Alcorn finished with six points and six rebounds for the Dragons.
Clinton’s victory set up a semifinal showdown with Carter at Fulton’s Jody Wright Arena in North Knoxville. A win on Tuesday night would earn the Dragons a spot in the Region 2-AAA Championship Game on Thursday night at Fulton, along with a berth in a state sectional game scheduled for Monday, March 10.
“Carter is a tough team, and (coach) Tyler (Cate) does a good job,” Lockard said. “The game will be a challenge for us. It won’t be easy.”
In the District 4-AAA Championship Game on Feb. 25, the Dragons fell 74-61 to Anderson County, adding extra motivation for their postseason run.
