HISTORY MAKING: Bears capture 3rd Region title for first time

Wed, 03/13/2024 - 9:07am — John Embry

Bears play in Rupp Arena on Thursday, March 21

OWENSBORO — Making history, determined Butler County defeated Owensboro Catholic 73-57 in the 3rd Region Boys' Basketball Tournament title game at the Owensboro Sportscenter on Tuesday, March 12.

Butler County, under the direction of Coach Calvin Dockery, claimed its first-ever region title.

The Bears carried a lead out of each quarter, outscoring Owensboro Catholic 20-12 in the opening period.

Extending its lead out to a double-digit advantage, Butler County led 36-19 at halftime.

Remaining in control after the break, Butler County led 54-39 at the conclusion of the third quarter.

Junior guard Ty Price, who was named the 3rd Region Boys' Basketball Player of the Year prior to the start of the title game, led Butler County to the championship-clinching win. Price poured in a game-high 36 points for the Bears. Among the top players in the state, Price is averaging nearly 30 points per game.

Joining Price in double figures for Butler County, Lawson Rice netted 13 points.

Narrowly missing double figures for Butler County, Briar Griffin posted nine points while Trever Deweese added eight points and Justin Castlen chipped in seven points.

Butler County (23-8) will meet 6th Region title winner Evangel Christian (29-6) in the opening round of the KHSAA Boys' Sweet 16 State Basketball Tournament at Rupp Arena in Lexington at 1:30 p.m. EST on Thursday, March 21.