When Dallas County needed a big play against Southside, the Hornets turned to their best player.

Darrius Ellis scored five of his 14 points in the final 1:40 as the Hornets prevailed 63-56 on Tuesday night at Panthers Gymnasium.

The Hornets (1-0) trailed 56-54 with 1:40 left when Ellis’ free throws tied the game. Thirty seconds later, Ellis’ layup gave the Hornets a 58-56 lead they never relinquished.

“I had to hit those free throws because if I don’t, we lose,” Ellis said. “I’ve been waiting for this game against Southside for a long time.”

Chance Lee scored the Hornets’ final five points. He finished with a team-high 15 points.

Aaron Strong also scored 15 points for the Hornets, including four three-point baskets. Joshua Brown finished with 11 points.

“The game went back and forth, I called timeout when we trailed 56-54 and told the players to leave it all on the court,” Dallas County coach Cliff Nix said. “Southside is a rivalry game for us and their coach, Darrell Walker and I are friends.”

Southside (1-1) went scoreless in the final two minutes as the Hornets’ defense took control.

Taye Spears led the Panthers with a game-high 22 points.

Southside girls 45, Dallas County 23: Jakeria Robinson scored 18 points as the Lady Panthers (2-0) led from the opening tip.

Kim’Misha McGhee led Dallas County with 18 points.