Some timely 3-point shooting by Webster County, coupled with some untimely turnovers by Caldwell County, resulted in the Trojans leaving Princeton with a 59-51 decision Friday night.
The contest was competitive all the way, but four shots from behind the arc in the third period helped Webster take the lead for good.
With Caldwell (5-19) up 27-23 early in the third quarter, Webster (13-10) got back-to-back 3s from Evan Michalek and Markus Austin to go in front 29-27.
Michalek added another 3-pointer and Micah Austin also connected from long range to help the Trojans take a 40-34 lead to the final frame.
Caldwell got within four points three times in the fourth quarter — the last at 54-50 on a Collin Whittington 3 with 1:00 to play. But the Tigers could get no closer.
Webster’s biggest lead was nine points in the last period.
Deshawn Murphy had 19 points to lead the Trojans, who also got 13 from Michalek and 10 from Jarvis Starks-Scott.
Webster was buoyed by 15 of 18 shooting at the free throw line.
Jaydarius Wilson had a big night for Caldwell, finishing with 20 points, 17 rebounds and three blocked shots. Collin Whittington had 12.
But the Tigers were hampered by 22 turnovers in the contest.
The Trojans have taken eight of the last nine meetings with Caldwell. Webster leads the all-time series 45-25.
The Tigers will head to Union County on Tuesday.
The Trojans visit Livingston Central on Saturday.
Webster County 13 10 17 19 — 59
Caldwell County 12 10 12 17 — 51
Webster County (13-10)—Murphy 19, Michalek 13, Starks-Scott 10, Mi. Austin 8, Ma. Austin 5, Hardinson 2, Garrod 2.
Caldwell County (5-19)—Wilson 20, Co. Whittington 12, Bumphus 9, Thompson 8, Roach 2.
