HUTCHINSON, Kan. (AP) — Maize came into the Salthawk Activity Center on Tuesday night and left with a sweep, edging the Hutchinson girls 49-46 before pulling away for a 69-48 victory in the boys contest.
The losses put both Salthawk teams on the brink of postseason play with one regular-season game remaining.
Girls: Eagles rally in fourth
Maize overcame a one-point deficit entering the final quarter to earn a 49-46 victory over Hutchinson.
The Lady Salthawks led 37-36 heading into the fourth, but Maize closed strong down the stretch. Hutchinson’s leading scorer, Danai Morgan, finished with a game-high 16 points but fouled out with 1:21 remaining, opening the door for Maize to capitalize at the free-throw line.
Heidi Williams delivered in the closing moments, knocking down key free throws on her way to 23 points. Lexee Shipp added 18 for the Eagles.
Hutchinson had opportunities late, including a missed layup and a contested 3-point attempt in the final seconds, but could not regain the lead.
The loss drops Hutchinson to 11-10 on the season. The Salthawks close out the regular season Thursday at home against Andover before opening 5A sub-state play next week, possibly on the road at Andover Central.
Boys: Big second quarter fuels Maize
In the nightcap, Maize used a decisive second quarter to take control in a 69-48 win over Hutchinson.
Despite a career- and season-high 29 points from junior Lamar Govain, the Salthawks could not overcome the Eagles’ balanced attack. Maize, now 18-5 and atop Class 6A West, had seven players score, including three in double figures.
Karson Miles led the Eagles with 15 points, Cooper Shaw added 14 and Brayden Myovela chipped in 13.
Hutchinson made a couple of pushes in the second half but never seriously threatened after Maize built separation in the second quarter.
Jalen Crable added 11 points for the Salthawks, while Larry Jeremiah Jr. scored six and Eli Atha had three.
The loss is Hutchinson’s 14th of the season. The Salthawks close out the regular season Thursday night at the SAC against Andover (13-9) on Senior Night. Hutchinson currently sits in the 15 spot in 5A west.
Class 5A sub-state play begins next week, with boys games tipping off Tuesday and girls competition starting Wednesday.