SPORTS

Independence boys blast Bearden in quarterfinals

Michael Murphy

USA TODAY NETWORK – Tennessee

Independence's Grayson Murphy (2) drives down the court during a Class AAA quarterfinal between Bearden and Independence at Middle Tennessee State University on Wednesday, March 15, 2017.

MURFREESBORO — Independence picked up right where it left off in Wednesday’s Class AAA quarterfinals, blasting Bearden 63-48 for the Eagles' 13th straight victory.

Independence, making its first state tournament appearance, shot close to 50 percent from the field. The Eagles, who had four players score in double figures, had 21 points off turnovers.

“We had good balance and that helps everyone get involved in the game,” said Independence senior Grayson Murphy, a Belmont signee who finished with 12 points, 10 rebounds and six assists. “We sped up the game a little bit so we could get out in transition and get some quick and easy buckets."

McKyan James finished with 16 points and three steals to lead Independence (24-10), which takes on Southwind in Friday’s 10 a.m. semifinal. Jeremiah Barr and Greg Miller each scored 11.

ReachMichael Murphy atmfmurphy@tennessean.com, 615-259-8262 and on Twitter@Murph_TNsports.