Muskogee’s youth met a seasoned standout here Thursday and the result, at least early, was devastating.

South Dakota commit Tauriawan Knight explosed for 20 of his game-high 28 points in the first quarter as Edmond Santa Fe beat Muskogee 70-63 in the Edmond Open Tournament.

The Roughers trailed 28-12 at quarter’s end and by as many as 21 points before halftime, but made a rally to tie it at 53 with 4 minutes remaining on James Brown’s free throws.

“We’re just young, three freshmen, three sophomores and two juniors, and it showed early,” said Muskogee coach Josh Berry. “They jumped out big, made shots and we missed shots. But everyone contributed and we battled back.”

Muskogee outscored Santa Fe 37-25 in the middle two quarters.

Clarence Parks, the only player back from last year at this point, scored 19 points, 17 in the first half and 10 in the second. Cameron Clemmons had 19 points, with two 3s in the second. Brown had eight points, all in the fourth.

Brooks Haddock, the other starter who is returning, is out until after the first of the year after a foot injury that required surgery.

Muskogee, 0-2 on the season, will play Edmond North in a consolation game at 3:30 p.m. today.
