A two hand putback jam by Austin Gillmann (12) was just what the varsity boys basketball team needed last night (Mar. 6) in their district semifinal match against Poplar Bluff. OHS defeated the Mules 68-66 to advance to the district finals.

The Tigers came out of the gate slow and found themselves down 10-2 mid-way through the first quarter. Carvon Robinson (11) brought some life to the Tigers when he came of the bench late in the opening quarter. With Robinson’s strong defensive play and play-making abilities the Tigers were able to close the quarter strong and lead 22-18.

The game continued to be a back and forth contest all the way into the fourth quarter. With about two minutes left, Ervin Sarajlic (12) drove the lane and threw up a shot that bounced off the rim. Gillmann threw it back in the rim with authority bringing the Tigers bench to their feet. It was the momentum swing the Tigers needed. Gillmann had a big night in the stat book as he became OHS’s all time leader in points, rebounds and blocks.

With the first district victory under their belt, the Tigers now will face defending district champion Jackson in the district championship game. The Tigers have revenge on their mind after falling to Jackson in a close game last year.

The game is this Saturday (Mar. 8) at Seckman. The game tips at 6:30p.m.