Edmond Memorial senior Drew Tennial knows what comes first.

Even though his team has more offensive firepower this season, Tennial said defense is always the Bulldogs' priority.

“Edmond Memorial is known for its defense,” Tennial said. “We try to establish things on that side of the ball right away.”

Edmond Memorial did just that Friday night, dispatching Norman 58-34 and limiting the Tigers to just 13 first-half points and just three points in the second quarter.

“Knowing their actions and what they try to do offensively was key,” Tennial said. “We really just focused on taking that away.”

Tennial led the way for Edmond Memorial with 17 points while also grabbing 13 rebounds. Freshman JV Seat scored 11 points and chipped in five rebounds. Bulldogs senior forward Jacob Thionnett contributed eight points, eight rebounds, dished four assists and had one steal.

“Drew kinda takes a heavy mantle for us,” Edmond Memorial coach Shane Cowherd said. “He's capable of a double double every night, and his length, his strength, athleticism and power, he can go and make plays and shoulder a bit more.”

Shannon's huge fourth leads way for Edmond North

Each night, it's likely a different young player will step up for Edmond North.

Friday night was sophomore Delante Shannon's turn.

The 6-foot-2 guard scored 13 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter to propel No. 12 Edmond North to a 55-50 upset of No. 6 Norman North.

“He's got a lot of ability,” first-year head coach Scott Norris said. “Every night he's learning more and more of what he can do and situations he shouldn't put himself in. I'm extremely proud of him going to the free throw line and knocking down free throws.”


Shannon made 7 of 8 free throws in the final eight minutes, including two with 16.3 seconds remaining for a 53-50 lead. He then blocked the game-tying 3 from Norman North's Jaylon White and was fouled. Shannon made both free throws with 8 seconds remaining.