CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The Kirkwood Cobras hosted the Kenwood Knights for the Region 7-4A quarterfinals on Saturday. The Cobras built a big halftime lead, but the Knights stormed back in the second half. The Cobras were able to weather the storm, escaping with a narrow 45-42 win.
The win advances Kirkwood to the semifinals and ends Kenwood’s season.
Early on, the Cobras were defensively dominant, holding the Knights to only nine points in the first half. Guard Armani Smith carried most of the scoring load for Kirkwood, leading all scorers with 12 on the night.
The second half was an entirely different story, as the Knights’ offense came alive, and the Cobras huge lead started to dwindle. They fought all the way back to be down only three with a few seconds left. A last second shot attempt didn’t fall, and the Knights’ comeback effort fell just short, ending their season.
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“Heartbreaker,” said Kenwood head coach Chase Cronin. “Hard fought, to be down that much and get all the way back. This was the first group I had since they were freshmen as a head coach. It hurts even more when it’s your guys. This senior class has taken pride in making a new image from Kenwood. They have been great leaders for our school. Two district titles to their name, and their accomplishments go beyond basketball.”
The Cobras advance to play Clarksville High in the semifinals in another elimination game on Wednesday night. For Kirkwood head coach John Stigall’s squad, it’s about realizing that one slip-up can end their season.
“We’re lucky to get out of there with a win,” said Stigall. “We did some good things, but give them credit, they competed hard. We’ve got to continue to get better. Our guys need to realize one bad half can send us home, and we’re thankful it didn’t happen tonight.”
Elsewhere in Clarksville
Clarksville High defeated Northwest 63-41, ending the Vikings’ season, and advancing the Wildcats to the semifinals.
Rossview fell to Henry County, ending the Hawks’ season.
Dickson County defeated Springfield, ending the Jackets’ season.