LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) - Shelby Valley's first-ever win in the Boys' Sweet Sixteen State Basketball Tournament turned into an upset over state champion Mason County.
Junior guard Elisha Justice scored 22 points and had three key steals in the fourth quarter to lead Shelby Valley to the 51-44 win over Mason County in the first round of the tournament, being held at Rupp Arena.
Shelby Valley (31-4) kept Mason County (24-7) to just 27 percent shooting to advance to Friday's quarterfinals.
Mason County was led by Russ Middleton who had 24 points, including seven 3-pointers.
The Wildcats had to battle through precision shooting from Mason County in the first half, including six 3-pointers that helped Mason County take a 24-18 halftime lead.
Shelby Valley fought back and took a slim lead in the third quarter, then held on until the end.
"They hit some really big shots in the first half," said Shelby Valley coach Jason Booher. "At halftime I told my kids to battle back and take the lead quickly."
The Wildcats started the third quarter with a 7-1 run.
"After that, we just got in our groove," Booher said.
Mason County has a 13-4 record in the state tournament this decade, winning the title in 2003 with future Tennessee standout Chris Lofton, and in 2008 with current Kentucky guard Darius Miller. The Royals were runners-up in 2004.