In a game heard on WEZC and online at dewittdailynews.com, Tuscola jumped out to an early lead and had an answer for every Monticello comeback attempt - including a late surge by the Sages - as the Warriors took home its fourth consecutive Holiday Hoopla title Monday night at 51-43 win at the Sievers Center in Monticello.

The Warriors pushed a 10-7 lead after the first quarter to a 30-19 lead at the half and led by as many as 12 points in the second half. 

But Monticello rallied, closing the gap to three a couple of times in the fourth quarter. 

But the Warriors put the game away despite struggles at the foul line.

Logan Kurtz scored 11 of his 15 points in the second half to lead Tuscola. 6-foot-6 senior Caeden Russo added ten points for the Warriors.

Tuscola shot just 5-of-17 from the foul line in the win.

Aiden McCool scored 11 points to lead Monticello. Miatthis Rudolph added ten points. 

Jake Motsegood's eight points in the fourth quarter helped spark the Monticello rally that ultimately fell short. Motsegood was the State Bank of Bement player of the game.

Tuscola is 12-0 on the season.

Monticello drops to 8-2. The Sages are off until next Tuesday, Jan. 6 when they travel to Tuetopolis.