The Tigers (6-3) battled with 7A Austin for four quarters but came up short in their 80-72 loss.
The Black Bears led 18-13 after the first quarter and 33-18 at halftime. They extended their lead to 50-32 heading into the fourth quarter.
However, Hartselle would not go away quietly as they scored a school-record 40 points in the fourth quarter to cut the lead to eight at the final buzzer. The Tigers, trailed 70-55 midway through the fourth, went on a 14-2 run to cut the lead to 72-69 with 45 seconds left.
Rylan Smothers finished with a career-high 22 points to lead Hartselle. He also had eight rebounds. Kiah Key had 16 points, three rebounds, four assists and three steals before fouling out. Ryan Dunn added 11 points and five assists, while Kohl Key had 10 points.
Jordan Johnson led Austin with 23 points.