The Dawson County Middle School seventh grade Tigers basketball team, coached by Steven Moates, fought hard but lost to Jasper Middle School, 38-19, Jan. 9.

With the loss of the away game, the team is still winless.

"I'm proud of our players because we played Jasper closer than anybody in our league," Moates said.

"We just have too many turnovers in the game. Jasper had a great second quarter and hit a lot of shots."

Tiger Will Mulberry led the team in scoring with nine points. Mulberry was followed in scoring by Luke Smith and Jack Glover with 4 points each. Ethan Burt contributed with four two points.

"Will Mulberry does a good job for us at point. He penetrates well and creates a lot of shots for us. Jack Glover is out for the rest of the season due to a broken thumb," Moates said. "He's been a starter all season. It'll definitely hurt us the last couple of games and going into the tournament. Everyone is improving and we are just focusing on playing the best we can the rest of the season."

The Tigers will play at 4 p.m. at home on Friday against Fannin County.

Dawson County will play in the Mountain League tournament beginning on Jan. 21. The tournament will be held in Fannin County.