Bears handle Ohio County, advance to 3rd Region title game

Sun, 03/10/2024 - 4:58pm — Steve Lemaster

OWENSBORO — Butler County pulled away to beat Ohio County 69-45 in the semifinals of the 3rd Region Boys' Basketball Tournament at the Owensboro Sportscenter on Saturday, March 9in front of a packed crowd.

Following the win, Butler County improved to 22-8. The Bears advanced to the 3rd Region Boys' Basketball Tournament title game.

The loss eliminated Ohio County from the 3rd Region Boys' Basketball Tournament. Ohio County exited the 2023-24 boys' high school basketball season 19-13.

Butler County set the tone early, outscoring Ohio County 25-6 in the first quarter.

The Bears led 38-14 at halftime and remained in control throughout the second half.

Butler County, which quickly added to its lead after the break, led 63-25 at the conclusion of the third period.

Ty Price poured in a game-high 35 points to lead Butler County to the win. Price scored 20 points in the third quarter.

Along with Price reaching double figures for Butler County, Lawson Rice netted 19 points.

Finishing near double figures for Butler County, Briar Griffin posted eight points.

Contributing to Butler County's win, Trever Deweese added three points while Justin Castlen and Clayton Deweese contributed two points apiece.

The Bears are set to play in a region championship game for the first time since 1963.

Butler County will meet Owensboro Catholic in the 3rd Region Boys' Basketball Tournament title game at the Owensboro Sportscenter at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 12.