First state basketball title eludes Bulldogs

March 13, 2010

Clint Thompson The Times Enterprise Sat Mar 13, 2010, 07:33 PM EST

MACON — The Thomasville Bulldogs will have to wait.

Trying to win the first boys basketball state title in school history, the Bulldogs were turned back Saturday 77-65 by Greater Atlanta Christian at the Macon Centreplex.

The Bulldogs finished 24-5.

The Thomasville players were disappointed with the way the title game transpired. They insist, though, it does not take away from a great season.

"We had an excellent year," said sophomore Willie Clayton, "I think we had an excellent year because last year, my freshman year, we got put out in the second round (of the state tournament). We had a good year."

Senior Fred Holton added, "I'm just thankful for the team that I played with. We've been through a lot together. We came out tonight and gave our heart. Things just didn't go our way."

Holton was one of four seniors that concluded their Bulldogs careers Saturday night, joining Seandarius Coleman, Anthony Anderson and Charles Hayes. The bulk of Thomasville's players will be back next year, however. Led by Clayton, Robert Carter and Trey Gosier, all of which are sophomore starters, the Bulldogs return nine players. A trip to the Final Four next season is within reach.

"We wanted to take care of business tonight but we definitely could be here next year," Thomasville coach Ben Tillman said. "We're OK. My kids, I tell them wins and losses are not about scores and numbers on the board. It's about how you feel in your heart.

"We're a good team. It just wasn't our night. The better ball club won tonight. I'm just so proud of these kids because we've come a long way."

Clayton noted, "I'm very excited. It's going to take a lot (of work). To get where we want to be at, it's going to take a lot."

This year's title game appearance was Thomasville's first since 2006.