The Bryant Blue Hornets eighth grade team of Bethel Middle School played what head coach Dominic Lincoln called “our first complete game of the year,” in a 33-27 win over the Lake Hamilton Wolves eighth graders on Tuesday night at the Bethel gym.
In seventh grade action, Lake Hamilton forged a 39-21 victory.
“From the start of the game, I thought we were the more aggressive team and just played with so much hustle and effort,” Lincoln said of the eighth grade team. “I was really proud of how the kids came out and played with so much energy. The bench support was fantastic. Every kid was into the game, even if they were not playing.”
Henry Terry led the scoring with 9 points. Randy Thomas and Tyler O’Neal each had 8.
“We got a huge contribution out of Will McEntire,” said Lincoln. “He gave us 7 points but also took two huge offensive charges.”
The win improved the Hornets to 5-4 going into Thursday’s game at Benton.
In the seventh grade game, Lake Hamilton jumped out to a 10-0 lead.
“We played really well for a period of time and faltered down the stretch,” Lincoln said. “We have to work on getting better and playing better for longer periods of time.
“I’m very proud of how we responded early after getting down,” he added. “Lake Hamilton has a good team.”
By halftime, the Hornets had cut the gap to 14-12.
Ethan Hilkrit paced Bethel with 4 points. Christian Cain added 3 with Kayleb West and Cade Drennan scoring 2 each. Brandon Weems pitched in with a free throw.
The seventh grade team’s B squad plays Bryant White on Tuesday, Jan. 20. The A team hosts Little Rock Episcopal in its next game on Monday, Jan. 26.
