Thursday’s basketball action brought heart-pounding action and heartbreaking losses.

The Escambia County Blue Devils and Lady Blue Devils traveled to Mobile to play in the South Region Tournament, and both teams saw different results in their contests.

The Blue Devils, currently No. 4 in the state, faced the Brewbaker Tech Rams in what turned out to be a shootout contest for four quarters.

Both teams played their best game and neither team was willing to give much ground throughout the contest. Defense and free throws late in the game really stood out for Escambia County, as they came away with a six-point win over the Rams.

The final minute of the match up really pulled the crowd in as the Rams were able to tie the game at 59 with free throws.

The last free throw owuld be the last point Brewbaker Tech would get though, as the Blue Devils found it in themselves to pull away in the final moments thanks to lay ups and free throws from D’Arius Pettway and Derrick Williams. The contributions from the two bench players were valuable for the win.

Now, the Blue Devils get a tough test from a Monroe County team they played several times during the season.

This game should bring a crowd from both schools, and could come down to the final minute to decide.

If the Blue Devils bring their “A” game then it could be in the cards for them to get to Birmingham. Playing smart will be the focus.

Following the Blue Devils, the Lady Devils took the court against No. 6 Andalusia.

This contest proved much different than the game before it.

Andalusia had a stranglehold on the match up from the beginning. They led for all four quarters and were only in danger following a second quarter run by ECHS.

Even with the tough loss, the Lady Devils should hold their heads up for reaching the regional tournament.

It is an accomplishment that should not be taken lightly.

Maybe with the experience they gained, they will make another run for Mobile next season.

Chandler Myers is sports editor of the Atmore Advance. He can be reached at 368-2123 or by e-mail at sports@atmoreadvance.com