Ector, Texas -- The Ector Eagles worked their way into the finals of the 2018 Ector Holiday Tournament and led for the first three quarters before the Gunter Tigers rallied in the final frame for a 49-43 victory in the championship game.

Noel Cannaday and Garen Norwood had quick baskets as Ector jumped out to a 4-0 lead. The Eagles were on top, 12-8, after the first quarter and Ector had a 25-17 advantage at halftime.

Gunter began closing in during the third period, but Kenny Nelms knocked down a triple at the buzzer to give Ector a 38-34 lead going into the fourth quarter.

Gunter slipped in front, 39-38, on a triple by Kyle Watson.

Ector reclaimed the lead when Norwood hit both ends of a 1-and-1. Kyrin Beach fired a pass inside to Norwood for a basket that gave Ector a 42-39 lead.

The lead changed hands two more times down the stretch before Gunter pulled away in the final minute to post a 49-43 win in the title game.

Austin Earl and Noel Cannaday both put in 10 points to lead Ector, Nathan Essary had eight points, Garen Norwood scored seven, Kenny Nelms finished with five points and Kyrin Beach had three points.

Clay Lemons led Gunter with 12 points, Zander Turner tossed in 11 points and Kyle Watson knocked down nine points.

photos by Allen Rich