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Preps

Russell's 30 lead Cowboys

TAMPA -- Proving he is the engine that powers Gaither, junior Antonio Russell scored 30 points to lead the Cowboys past visiting Bloomingdale 57-42 in a Class 6A, District 5 game Wednesday night.

A quicksilver guard, Russell sliced apart Bloomingdale's interior defense with an assortment of drives and spin moves to the basket, leading Gaither (11-9, 4-4) to its fourth consecutive victory.

Senior Brandon Harrison added 13 points and 12 rebounds.

The game was won on the glass, with Gaither enjoying a 41-19 rebounding edge. The Cowboys' 19-4 advantage on the offensive boards resulted in easy follow baskets and short-range second shots.

Bloomingdale senior Jean Lebrun led all scorers with 32, but the Cowboys held the rest of the Bulls (10-6, 6-2) to 10.

Russell, who missed nine games earlier this season for disciplinary reasons, helped Gaither overcome a 17-8 first-quarter deficit.

"It's not just Russell's athleticism, but if their offense breaks down, he can create plays and score off the dribble," said Bloomingdale assistant coach Steve Moran, subbing for first-year head coach Josh Chapin. Chapin was with his wife, Angela, who gave birth to a daughter Tuesday.

Gaither coach Dwayne Olinger said the 6-foot-2, 160-pound Russell also provides leadership and court presence.

"Above his athletic skills, he's tough and he competes all game long," Olinger said. "He knows when to take it to the basket and when to bring the ball back out and set up. He's an excellent defensive player as well. Even though Lebrun scored most of their points, Antonio forced him into some bad shots."

Lebrun scored 31 last week when the Bulls defeated the Cowboys 68-67 in double overtime. This time, he didn't receive enough help to keep Bloomingdale in the game in the second half.

Trailing 25-20 at halftime, Gaither outscored Bloomingdale 19-3 in a decisive third quarter led by Russell's 11.

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