Tough Weekend Schedule Starts Tonight at Goreville
- Dave McKenzie
- Dec 19, 2025
- 2 min read
The Carterville Lions roll into the weekend playing confident, connected basketball.
Through six games, the Lions are averaging 67.5 points per night and shooting an efficient 48.2% from the field. That balance shows up everywhere. They score inside at 56.1% on two-point shots and knock down 36.3% from three, keeping defenses honest. Add in a +19.5 scoring margin, and you get a team that controls games early and often.
Friday night brings a serious test.
Carterville heads to Goreville to face an unbeaten 8-0 Blackcats squad in non-conference action. Goreville has wins over Benton, Harrisburg, and Anna-Jonesboro, plus a couple of eye-popping blowouts. They score in bunches and defend just as hard. This one has “loud gym, fast pace, buckle up” written all over it.
The Lions’ numbers suggest they’re built for this challenge. Carterville averages nearly 16 assists per game with a positive assist-to-turnover ratio, a sign of poise under pressure. Rebounding has been steady, with 72.3% of defensive boards secured, limiting second chances. Defensively, the Lions create problems with active hands and disciplined positioning. Translation: they don’t beat themselves.
One stat that jumps off the page is balance by quarter. Carterville averages between 14 and 19 points every frame, showing they don’t fade late. Free throws improve as games go on, peaking at 73% in the fourth quarter. That matters on the road. Especially in Goreville, where games often come down to toughness in the final minutes.
Coverage begins at 7:30 PM with Dave McKenzie and John Homan on the call. Listen live on NewsRadio WJPF (AM 1340 / 99.5 FM) or watch on the YouTube livestream.
It’s a measuring-stick night for Carterville. Undefeated opponent. Hostile environment. Perfect way to kick off the weekend.
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