The GHS varsity basketball teams began its home schedule with its second loss of the season to the Calhoun Tigers last Friday night.

Playing in front of a "packed house", the girls' team (0-3) lost 48-23 while the boys' varsity team (0-3) fell 92-68.

The boys game presented an up tempo affair by both Tiger teams.

GHS boys' varsity coach Karl Bledsoe said the team is getting better and better with each game.

"Although we lost the game, I feel our team is making improvements," Bledsoe said.

In the game, Calhoun took an early 22-14 lead at the end of the opening period. By halftime, GHS was down by nine.

"It was a fast paced game. Mistakes are when you make a turnover and hang your head down on defense," Bledsoe said. "However, mistakes aren't when you turn the ball over while continuing to hustle."

He said the team will make fewer and fewer mistakes as the season goes by.

In the third quarter, the Tigers were on the bottom end of a 22-14 run by Calhoun which resulted 67-50 going into the final frame.

The Tigers were then outscored 25-18 in the fourth quarter.

Leading the Tigers in scoring was Corey Bedgood with 25 points and five steals.

Marlon Powell dropped in 13 points and nitched nine rebounds.

Sam Williamson had eight rebounds and 11 points against Calhoun.

As a team, the Tigers shot 40 percent from the field.

GHS converted on three of 10 three-pointers and hit 14 of 25 free throws.

"I feel there is a sense of urgency that we have to win soon," Bledsoe said. "It's important to get a win soon so we can build some confidence."

Bledsoe said its how you finish a season that counts; not what you do at the beginning.

The Tigers will go into area play on Friday, Dec. 10 when they host Wilcox County

starting at 5 p.m.

"That is an important game. We have to play our game in order to win," Bledsoe said.

The GHS girls varsity team also lost their third game of the season as Calhoun blanked the Tigers in the first period 14-0.

The Tigers went 0 for 11 in free throws in the opening period.

GHS girls' coach Jerome Antone said the team has struggled with their free throws in the first couple of games.

"We are making mental mistakes and that has been hurting us," Antone said.

In the second quarter, the Tigers were able to make a 9-6 run to close the half at 20-9.

GHS player Amanda Dunklin led the team with six points while bringing down nine rebounds.

Sophia Ruffin led the Tigers in rebounding with 12 while scoring four.

"Sophia did a good job of rebounding for us," Antone said. "She's improving everyday."

Shalonda Hawkins had four points while ninth grade point guard LaToya Durant dropped in three for the cause.

Kayla Albritton and Kaletta Mixon each had two points.

"The team needs to think about what they need to do on the court," Antone said. "This young team is getting the experience it needs to be a good team in the future."

He said the team will come around, adding "We'll be okay. However, we have to cut down on miscues."

The miscues includes missed free throws, lay ups and turnovers.

The coach said he's got to be patient with the team.

"I know that it may take some time for the foundation to be set. Once that happens, we'll become a good basketball team," Antone said. "The talent is definitely there."

The girls will also be in action against Wilcox on Dec. 10.