Oak Hill High School

The Oak Hill Golden Eagles gutted out a hard-fought 44–40 win over the Peru Tigers Wednesday night at Tig Arena in Peru, improving to 11–3 and showing championship-level poise in a game that stayed tense until the final buzzer. Oak Hill jumped out strong in the first quarter, building an early lead behind sharp shooting and stout defense. Graham Arrendale and Tytan Ott each drained a three-pointer, Corey Templin attacked for two layups, and Matthew Lawson and Arrendale each added a free throw. The Golden Eagles’ defense clamped down, holding Peru to just four points and taking a 12–4 advantage after one. The Tigers found their footing in the second, scoring 10 to make it a battle. Oak Hill answered blow for blow: Arrendale, Ott, Tanner Martin, and Cristian Pavey each scored two points, while Templin and Lawson hit free throws. The Golden Eagles maintained control and carried a 22–14 lead into halftime. Peru came roaring out of the locker room, winning the third quarter with inspired energy and physical play - the first time Oak Hill had lost a quarter in recent games. Arrendale kept the Eagles afloat with seven points, including drives and finishes, while Templin splashed a three and Ott added a free throw. The lead shrank to just two entering the fourth: 33–31. The final frame was a gut check. The Golden Eagles woke up defensively and offensively when it mattered most. Ott and Templin each buried crucial three-pointers to stretch the margin, Lawson added a field goal and a free throw, and Pavey knocked down two more from the line. Oak Hill held firm against Peru’s relentless pressure, never allowing the Tigers to take the lead despite multiple close calls in the second half. Arrendale led the way with 13 points, Templin added 11, Ott 9, Lawson 5, Pavey 4, and Martin 2. This road win showcased the Golden Eagles’ resilience: they never trailed, but credit to Peru for never quitting and turning a comfortable lead into a nail-biter. Oak Hill’s ability to respond, stay composed, and execute down the stretch proved the difference in a true character-building victory.