The Tharptown eight grade boy’s team defeated Red Bay 59-41 Saturday to win the Franklin County Tournament in their age division.

The team finished the season 18-2, including winning the last 15 games straight.

“I told the boys to lay it all on the line and let them know who is the best team in the county,” Tharptown head coach Bart Moss said.

Tharptown was ahead 29-19 by the end of the first half. Red Bay outscored Tharptown 19-13 in the third, but the Wildcats finished strong by only allowing the Tigers five points in the fourth while scoring 17 of their own.

“This was an outstanding group of kids,” Moss said. “They are very athletic and have a bright future ahead if they keep their heads on straight.”

Blake Gray led the Wildcats in scoring with 21 points, while Nathan Chaney had 20. Also scoring for Tharptown were Max Nolen (7), Matthew Braswell (6), Heath Hatton (2) and John Staggs (2).

Isaiah Jackson led the Tigers in point with 10. Also scoring for Red Bay were Nick Thorn (8), Austin Milam (6), Tate Ozbirn (6), Jesus Kelly (4), Tyler Jeffreys (4) and Bailey Turbyfill (2).

“These kids can take what you say and run with it,” Moss said. “Red Bay gave us our best competition in the county. [Coach] Morrow is a good coach and had his team well-prepared.”