Newton, Choctaw in finals

By By Marty Stamper/EMG sports assistant
January 4, 2003
FOREST – Currently leading Division 5-2A, the Newton Lady Tigers are hoping to use the Central Mississippi Classic as a stepping stone to a good second half showing in the 2002-03 season.
The Newton girls improved to 10-7 with a 58-40 win over Forest Friday night to earn a trip in tonight's finals against unbeaten Choctaw Central.
The first half was a struggle as Newton led Forest 16-15 after one quarter and took a 33-29 edge into halftime. The Lady Tigers outscored Forest 20-4 in the third quarter to break the game open.
Creoshia Williams led Newton with 22 points, nine of which came during the third quarter run. Kotreece Bender scored 10, Aja Loveless had seven, and Twila Clayton and Jessica Anderson both tallied six.
Forest boys 88
Newton 67
Forest outscored Newton 51-34 in the second half to up its record to 10-5. The Bearcats held a 21-15 advantage at the end of the first quarter and took a 37-33 lead into halftime. The hosts stretched out to a 62-50 lead by the end of the third quarter.
Choctaw girls 80
Morton 43
The third-ranked Lady Warriors improved to 16-0 with their second straight tournament blowout. Choctaw Central led 26-7 by the end of the opening period and took a 47-22 lead into halftime.
Choctaw boys 88
Pearl 56
In Thursday's late game, the Warriors outscored the Pirates in each quarter as they improved to 11-3. Deon Lewis had 23 points to lead Choctaw Central.