Laurel's last two losses came against teams with losing records. For nearly three periods Tuesday night, in a do-or-die matchup versus Picayune (13-16), it's seemed like a third straight would do the Tornadoes (17-11) in.
But they survived.
Laurel beat Picayune 66-60 to advance in the Class 5A playoffs.
"At this point in the season, we'll take any win we can get," said Laurel head coach Marcus Price. "Right now it's about, survive and advance. It was not pretty, and it was not how we'd like it to look, but we'll take the win."
Wayne County (20-6), who earned a first-round bye, awaits the Tornadoes on Saturday. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m.
"Coach [Kendrick] Davis has done more with more with talent than any coach I've seen," said Price. "Wayne County is playing well right now, and they won their district, so it's going to be one of those games where it's Laurel and Wayne County. It will be jammed pack, and a great atmosphere so we're looking forward to the opportunity to go out and play."
Senior small forward Antwan Hatten scored a game-high 33 points Tuesday night for Laurel. Khylin Dixon was the only other Tornado to net double-digits with 12.
The lead changed hands ten times. After trailing Picayune at the half by a single point, 26-25, and as many as eight in the third period, Laurel used a 17-3 run in the final four minutes of the period to get out in front, 43-37, to begin the fourth.
Laurel held on in the final eight minutes, despite Picayune pulling within three 63-60 near the end before surrendering the final three points and conclude the match, 66-60.
"We played hard," added Price, "but we're still making the same mistakes that have been haunting us the last couple of games. Hopefully, we can clean it up and get ready for Wayne County on Friday night."
Seth Stockstill led Picayune with 18 points.
