Free Throws Spell Doom for State Hopes

Both Middleton basketball seasons came down to the free throw line in their sub-state contests, but failure at the stripe contributed to the end of both seasons one step from state tournament berths.
The Lady Tigers fell 39-38 to Dresden on March 4, after leading 38-33 with just under two minutes left. Seven missed free throws down the stretch caused the Lady Tigers to miss a trip to Murfreesboro for the first time since 2014. Middleton shot 8-22 from the line on the night.
Chelsey Perry had 15 for Middleton before fouling out with 1:52 remaining in the contest. Sequoia Warren had 16 to lead the Lady Tigers, who finished 24-8 on the season.
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Middleton’s boys season also came down to the free throw line, but with a twist. Tylandarius Parks hit a free throw with 1.7 seconds left in the sub-state contest with #1 ranked Humboldt, but a lane violation on Parks negated the free throw that would have put the Tigers ahead 73-72. Middleton subsequently fell in overtime 86-80. Parks and senior Montrez Jones led Middleton with 21 each.
The Tigers, who ended the season 23-8, were looking for their first trip to Murfreesboro since 2011. Photo of Parks at the line against Trinity Christian during the district tournament by Mike Davis.