Tigers drop decision at Nixa, snap skid vs. Webb City Cardinals

Nixa overcame a Republic comeback to edge the Tigers, 53-48, handing Republic its second conference loss of the season and their second in a row. Republic trailed by 11 points in the first half, but came back to take the lead before ultimately losing the game. Nixa’s Kael Combs scored all 10 of his points in the fourth quarter to fuel the Eagles’ late run.
Republic had trailed 15-4 at the end of the first quarter, but outscored Nixa 11-5 in the second period to cut the gap to 20-15. A 20-point third quarter helped the Tigers take the lead first on a three-pointer by Ahlante Askew from the left corner -- then again on a three-pointer by Looney from the same spot on their last shot of the period.
Republic scoring: Drew McMillin 17, Race Looney 16, Joe Rexroat 9, Ahlante Askew 3, Will Berry 2, Carson Neff 1
At home against Webb City, it was Republic who had to overcome a furious comeback. The Tigers led by 16 points as the fourth quarter began, saw the lead whittled down to one, and rebounded to beat the Cardinals 71-64. The Tigers put the game away at the free throw line, making 15 of 17 free throw attempts.
Drew McMillin scored 29 points to lead Republic. His points included a 7-for-8 performance at the line in the fourth period. Two other players scored in double figures: Joe Rexroat added 15 and Ahlante Askew added 14 for Republic.
Republic is now 18-7 overall. They’re 6-2 in the Central Ozark Conference. Webb City falls to 12-9 (4-3).
Republic scoring: Drew McMillin 29, Joe Rexroat 15, Ahlante Askew 14, Will Berry 7, Nate Woolford 4, Carson Neff 2