The Henderson County Colonels claimed the Thomas Nelson Generals Christmas Classic championship Sunday afternoon, edging the host Generals 62-56 in overtime in Bardstown.
Henderson raced out to a fast start, scoring the first nine points of the game, but Thomas Nelson responded to trim the margin to 17-16 after the opening quarter. The Colonels carried a 30-25 lead into halftime before the game tightened in the second half. The teams were tied 42-42 after three quarters and deadlocked again at 51-51 at the end of regulation.
Henderson took control in overtime, outscoring the Generals 11-5 to secure the tournament title.
The Colonels made their presence felt at the free-throw line, going 15-of-26, while Thomas Nelson attempted just seven free throws, making six. Henderson finished 4-of-18 from three-point range, while the Generals were 7-of-21. The Colonels also forced 18 turnovers, committed 12 of their own, and held a 34-31 edge on the glass.
Xavion Johnson led Henderson with 23 points, scoring 11 of those in the fourth quarter and overtime. Amare Stewart added 13 points and six rebounds and was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. Zayden Martin chipped in nine points, while Brayden Dennis provided a boost off the bench with six points and four rebounds.
Jarren Byrum and Travis Little each scored four, Braden Williams opened overtime with a basket and finished with two points, and MaLaikye Taylor added one point while recording three key steals in the fourth quarter and overtime.
Henderson County (7-2) returns to action Saturday, December 27, hosting Louisville DeSales at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Faupel Automotive Group Colonel Basketball Classic.
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