It was a tough comeback for South Callaway's Trynnen Gray.
The Bulldogs won 41-34 Monday at Chamois, thanks largely to Gray's game-high 27 points as South Callaway has its first Show-Me Conference victory.
South Callaway (2-1, 1-1 SMC) didn't need a comeback against the Pirates (1-4, 0-1 SMC) as it led 7-5 after one quarter and maintained that two-point lead through three quarters.
Gray had productive games in South Callaway first two contests against Van-Far and Fatima, scoring 12 and 11 points, respectively. His big game at Chamois showed how much progress Gray has made since tearing his ACL in May.
"It's kind of a testament to that kid that he's been back playing where he is at," Thomas said. "He looked really good tonight. We're sure glad he's on our team."
Thomas said South Callaway having its senior be a go-to guy helped the Bulldogs stay ahead of Chamois and counter the tough man-to-man defense the Pirates like to play.
Gray took the pressure off his teammates while they struggled to find their shots and play at a pace to their liking, Thomas said.
"Trynnen did a really good job," Thomas said. "I know those other guys are going to have his back when he's struggling in some other games."
South Callaway will have most of the week to prepare for its 8 a.m. Friday game against New Bloomfield (0-5) at Mizzou Arena as part of the Norm Stewart Classic. The game will be broadcast on ESPN3.
Thomas said that early of a start time is obviously strange, but the Bulldogs are excited for the opportunity to play at the college arena.
"There's nothing like playing at Mizzou Arena," Thomas said. "That's a chance not many kids get to do, and we're pretty excited we have that opportunity to play there."