VALLEY CENTER, Kan. — The Hutchinson High Salthawks earned their first victories of the 2026 calendar year Tuesday night, sweeping Valley Center on the road.
The Hutchinson girls pulled away in the second half for a 49-32 win over the Hornets, while the Salthawk boys held off a late Valley Center push to escape with a 59-56 victory.
In the girls’ game, Hutchinson found itself in a tight contest at halftime, carrying a 25-20 lead into the locker room. The Salthawks quickly took control after the break, opening the third quarter with a strong defensive effort that limited Valley Center’s scoring chances and fueled a decisive run.
Hutchinson outscored the Hornets by double figures in the third period to create separation and never looked back on the way to the 17-point win. Ava Kron led the way for the Salthawks with a 15-point double-double, providing steady scoring and presence on the glass.
The boys’ contest came down to the final minute, but this time Hutchinson avoided a late-game collapse. The Salthawks overcame turnovers and knocked down free throws in the closing moments to seal the three-point road victory.
Larry Jeramiah Jr. delivered a consistent performance to pace Hutchinson with 15 points, while Lamar Govain came up with several key baskets down the stretch to help preserve the lead as Valley Center threatened in the final seconds.
The sweep marked the first wins of 2026 for both Salthawk squads.
Hutchinson returns to action Friday night when the Salthawks travel to Great Bend for another road doubleheader non-league game.