Larry Gritton had plenty of success in the All “A” Classic as a star player for the Oneida Baptist Mountaineers, leading his dad’s team to a regional title in 1992.

He hopes to have similar success as coach and started the 2024 tournament with a 59-56 win over Middlesboro on Saturday at Red Bird.

Cannon Tyree led the 8-6 Mountaineers with 22 points. Davis Obiora finished with 19 points.

“Really proud of our young men for this resilient win,” Gritton told the 13th Region Media Network “Middlesboro battled back in the second half but our kids refused to lose and made the necessary plays to get the win and advance to the semifinals. Williamsburg is a well-coached team, and we look forward to the challenge on Monday night.”

Jerimah Beck scored 16, Cayden Grigsby tossed in 13 and Trey King added 11 for the 5-7 Jackets, who return to action Friday at Harlan County.

Scoring summary

Oneida Baptist (59) — Canaan Tyree 22, Jacob Rogers 9, Skyler Roberts 3, Jason Erhunwynse 2, Davis Obiora 19, Chandler Gregory 2, Tommy Branstutter 2.

Middlesboro (56) — Jerimah Beck 16, Brayden Barnard 2, Cayden Grigsby 13, Bryce Bowling 8, Trey King 11, Joseph Killion 6.

Oneida Baptist 17-22-7-13 — 59

Middlesboro 17- 8-18-13 — 56