The #2 East Carter Redbirds (17-7) took on the #3 Neelyville Tigers (15-7) in the OFC Tourney Championship Friday night at the TRC Libla Center. The Redbirds ended a 23-year drought, for their first OFC Varsity Championship since 1997. The Birds jumped out early in the 1st when ECC sophomore, Preston Golden, scored the games first 8 points. The Birds would end the quarter with a 13-5 lead. They continued to build on their lead in the 2nd, taking a 27-17 halftime lead. Both teams would trade baskets in the 3rd, with the Birds holding a 43-31 lead. The Tigers wouldn't go away without a fight, starting the 4th quarter on a 12-2 run, cutting the Birds lead to two points with 6:22 left in the quarter. The Tigers run was sparked by junior Jemaane Williams’ 15 4th quarter points. The Birds would fightback, led by senior Dalton Rudd's hot hand, including his 6 straight free throws. The Redbirds would hold on for a 67-61 victory. The Redbirds were led by Senior, Dalton Rudd, with 23 points. Other Birds scoring; Preston Golden 19pts & 9rebs, Levi Boyer 12pts, 5rebs & 5 blks, Connor Powell 8pts, Alex Kearbey 3pts, and Caden Foster 2pts. The Neelyville Tigers were led by Jemaane Williams with 27.