By Mike Goodson/Sports Correspondent
Emil Smith poured in 19 points to lead Etowah to a 68-59 win over Guntersville on Tuesday (Jan. 26) in Attalla.
The victory set up a coin toss to determine which school will host the upcoming Class 5A, Area 13 Tournament.
“We felt like our backs were against the wall,” said Etowah head coach James Graves. “We needed a win to host the area [tournament], so we were in a must win situation. Our defense stepped up. It all comes down to a coin toss now.”
The Wildcats took a 12-9 lead first quarter lead after both teams started slowly. The Blue Devils (10-11) then went on a 20-12 run to take a 29-24 lead at halftime lead and never looked back.
Etowah led 48-34 after three quarters of play.
Alvin Bolton added16 points and Jamin Graham chipped in 12 for the Blue Devils.
Jaylon Stewart led Guntersville with 18 points, followed by C. J. Williamson with 11 and Logan Bonds with 10.