February 21, 2008
Lincoln Tops The Meadows

Photo by Dave Maxwell Lincoln's DantleyWalker on the dribble drive against Meadows.

By Dave Maxwell, Staff Writer

Freshman Dantley Walker has not known what the nemesis The Meadow has been to Lincoln County the past three years. Each time the Lynx have lost to the Mustangs to close out the season, twice coming in the state finals, including 2007.

Not this year however. Walker scored 10 of his game-high 28 points, in the fourth quarter, to put a cap on Lincoln’s 68-63 win over feisty Meadows Friday at the 2A boys Southern Regionals.

Senior Chris Shinkle said it felt good to finally turn the tables on The Meadows after three years of losses. “It feels just as good as winning the state title,” he said. Lincoln beat The Meadows in all three meetings this season.

With 2:08 remaining, Walker took over and scored six points in an 8-0 Lynx run to clinch the win.

Jon Chino had 18 points for The Meadows and Martinez had 15. “We got killed on the glass, and we couldn’t make free throws (9 for 21). It’s that simple,” said Coach Gary Hannig.

“The Meadows is a lot better team than people give them credit for,” said Lincoln Coach Mike Wood. “They’ve had our number the last three years, kind of a turning point this year,” he said.

When The Meadows would get close, Walker would drain a three-pointer, or a short jumper. “He’s huge for us on the offensive end. He’s a pure basketball player,” Wood said.