South Iron avenges Christmas tournament loss to Knights

ANNAPOLIS — Marcus Hampton delivered another highlight under pressure for South Iron, and the state’s top-ranked Class 1 team atoned for a painful championship game loss at the Central Christmas Tournament.

The senior guard attacked the basket for a decisive 3-point play with just two seconds left, and lifted the Panthers past Farmington 49-46 in another thrilling chapter to a building rivalry.

Demetrius Cornell netted a game-high 19 points for South Iron (22-3), which had an option to take the final shot of regulation after a traveling violation was called against the visiting Knights.

Hampton continued his knack for dramatic plays after beating both Potosi and Hillsboro on last-second baskets in December.

Farmington (14-8) grabbed its final lead at 46-44 when senior guard Logan England drained his third 3-pointer of the night.

Todd Sullivan pulled South Iron even with a steal and layup, and ended the night with 10 points while Hampton totaled nine.

Jordan Ankrom paced the Knights with 15 points, including nine during the third quarter.