The McAlester 5A Shootout Festival delivered a classic on Thursday, as Claremore and Noble renewed their rivalry in a tense, back-and-forth battle. In a rematch of last year's state quarterfinal, the Bears once again edged the Zebras, this time by a 6-4 score.

Claremore (17-9) showed fight throughout, answering an early Noble run with a three-run third inning. Key hits from John Tedesco and Xyler Reeder, who each drove in a run, helped build the lead. Defensively, the Zebras turned two crucial double plays to keep the game tight.

However, Noble (15-11) had an answer every time. Dierks Wente was the catalyst for the Bears, going 2-for-3 with three RBIs, including two clutch doubles. His bases-loaded walk in the sixth inning ultimately broke a 4-4 tie, and a sacrifice fly provided a critical insurance run.

On the mound, Claremore's Ryder Garrison battled through 4.2 innings, but Noble starter Trent Shortes earned the win with six solid frames. The Zebras threatened in the seventh but couldn't complete the comeback.

Claremore continues its tournament run with games against Coweta and host McAlester this weekend, looking to bounce back from this hard-fought loss.