Woodlawn Holds Off Sparta to Win Duster Thomas Hoops Classic

Russ Conwell
Jan 2
1 min read

Kyle Cooper beating the press in the win vs Sparta at the Duster Thomas Hoops Classic

Pinckneyville — The Duster Thomas Hoops Classic Championship delivered the drama.

The Woodlawn Cardinals stayed perfect, holding off a furious second-half rally from Sparta for a 48–46 win to claim the tournament title and move to 13–0 on the season.

Woodlawn got it done by committee. Luke McKay, Kyle Cooper, and Tyson Frick each scored 12 points, combining for 36 in the win. Cooper was named Tournament MVP after a huge week, highlighted by breaking the 2,000 career point mark.

Sparta nearly pulled off the comeback of the tournament after trailing 32–15. Dariontez Monroe led all scorers with 19 points, adding 5 rebounds and 3 assists, while Jakhai Dancy knocked down three triples on his way to 11 points. The duo combined for 30 of Sparta’s 46 points as the Bulldogs tied it at 46-46 late. However Woodlawn held on to win 48-46 after the Cardinals defense stood tall, shutting the door in the closing seconds to seal the championship and remain undefeated.

Game Recap With Interviews: https://www.riverradiosportscentral.com/2026/01/02/woodlawn-holds-off-sparta-for-duster-thomas-hoops-classic-title/

Link to full highlights here.

Woodlawn (13-0)

#33 Kyle Cooper: 12 points/3 assists (Tournament MVP)

#31 Tyson Frick: 12 points

#24 Luke McKay: 12 points/6 rebounds

Sparta (11-2)

#5 Dariontez Monroe: 19 points/5 rebounds/3 assists (2 Threes)

#11 Jakhai Dancy: 11 points (3 Threes)

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