A big game from Jaydarius Wilson helped Caldwell County advance to the semifinals of the 2024 Paducah St. Mary Christmas Classic.
The senior pumped in 35 points and snared 17 rebounds as the Tigers built a big lead early, then held off Livingston Central 72-65 in the opening round Friday night in Paducah.
Wilson had 17 points in the first half for Caldwell, which led 18-9 after one quarter and 39-20 at halftime.
It was still 57-38 through three quarters, but a strong final frame allowed Livingston to trim the final gap to just seven points. The Cardinals outscored the Tigers 27-15 over the final 8 minutes.
Collin Whittington added 12 points for Caldwell, which is now 5-2. Pax Aikins had 11.
Bryson Walker scored 24 of his team-high 26 points in the second half for Livingston, which is 2-2. Drew Hosick had 11 points and Avery Zain added 10 for the Cardinals.
The Tigers have won their last four meetings with Livingston and 10 of the last 11.
Caldwell leads the all-time series with the Cardinals 77-52.
Game MVP: Caldwell County Senior JayDarius Wilson finished with 35 Points & 17 Rebounds pic.twitter.com/haWOWOHt0l
— St. Mary Christmas Classic (@HolidayHoops25) December 21, 2024
Both teams will play again on Saturday at St. Mary.
Caldwell will face Carlisle County in the semifinals at 6 p.m. The Comets defeated Heritage Christian Academy 73-40 Friday night.
Livingston will play HCA in the consolation bracket at 2 p.m.
Caldwell County 18 21 18 15 — 72
Livingston Central 9 11 18 27 — 65
Caldwell County (5-2)—J. Wilson 35, Whittington 12, Aikins 11, Rowland 6, Parker 4, Wells 4.
Livingston Central (2-2)—Walker 26, Hosick 11, Zaim 10, Hargrove 8, Davidson 6, Stone 4.
