The Taylorville Tornadoes didn’t shoot the ball particularly well Monday night, but strong defense down the stretch lifted them to a 49–42 win over North Mac in front of a packed home crowd that included the Taylorville High School jazz band.

North Mac opened the game with a 7–2 run behind Luke Alexander, but sophomore Brock Brown answered with six first-quarter points to help Taylorville pull even at 11 at the end of one. The Panthers continued to apply pressure in the second quarter, as Carson Powell knocked down a three and scored five in the period. Still, the Tornadoes took control midway through the quarter and carried a 22–18 lead into halftime, despite North Mac staying within striking distance.

The Panthers made their push in the third quarter, outscoring Taylorville 16–13, but Brown caught fire, pouring in 11 points in the frame, including three three-pointers. North Mac closed the gap to just one, trailing 35–34 heading into the fourth. After briefly taking the lead early in the final quarter, the Panthers were held in check by Taylorville’s defense. The Tornadoes found success at the free throw line late and pulled away to secure the seven-point home victory.

Brock Brown led all scorers with 27 points for Taylorville. Luke Alexander paced North Mac with 15, while Carson Powell added 13. Brock Brown was named the WTIM Nicole Patrick Country Financial Player of the game.  Coach Ryan Brown said it wasn't pretty but it got the job done. 

With the win, Taylorville improves to 3–4 on the season, while North Mac falls to 5–6. The Tornadoes will next play Glenbard South on December 29th at 8:30 as part of their holiday tournament.