Republic Tigers hold off comeback to make it 18 straight

 It had been 30 years since a Republic team last won 18 games in a row. But Republic knocked off conference opponent Carthage (11-9) Friday, 70-64, en route to its 18th straight win, becoming the fourth Republic basketball team to win that many games in a row.
Republic got off to a fast start against Carthage, as sophomore Brenley Hagewood made three three-pointers in the first quarter and helped the Tigers to a 21-11 lead. Republic led 38-24 at halftime, and pulled ahead by 20 after three quarters, 53-33. The final eight minutes made the game more interesting, as Carthage senior Max Templeman scored 17 in the fourth quarter, leading an offensive outburst of 31 points by Carthage during that stretch. Carthage outscored Republic 31-17 in the fourth quarter and eventually cut the lead to four points, but Republic held on for the win and was able to stay perfect in the COC. Republic was led in scoring by Brenley Hagewood with 19. Ahlante Askew scored 16 and Khamari Edward had 14.
Republic improved to 3-0 in conference play and 19-1 overall.