(Avon guard Keriawn Berry handles the ball against Southport at the 2024 FORUM Tipoff Classic. PHOTO:JT Cocherell)

The swings between Avon and Southport at the 2024 FORUM Tipoff Classic were exaggerated behind the typical peaks and valleys. In the end, Avon held off Southport for the 47-43 victory.

Avon had a thunderous start behind a couple of dunks by Kendrick Dunmore, and the Orioles continued to play well throughout the first half. Avon built a 35-23 halftime lead before the floor dropped on them.

Southport held Avon scoreless for nearly seven minutes to begin the second half. In that time, the Cardinals scored 16 points to take the lead. Jack Turner and James Kalala played a major part in the Southport success. Kalala finished with a double-double of ten points and ten rebounds, while Turner scored 14 for the Cardinals.

After Avon could not score in the third, Southport returned the favor in the fourth quarter. Avon won the final period 16-4 by getting into transition more. Jedidiah Minnett, Rohan Pearson, and Dunmore sealed the game late for the Orioles.