HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson High Salthawks endured a tough night at the Salthawk Activity Center on Tuesday as both the girls and boys teams were swept by the Maize South Mavericks in AVCTL action.
The Hutch High girls struggled to slow Maize South’s interior presence in a 58-35 loss. The Mavericks controlled the paint from the opening tip, using their size and rebounding advantage to build separation and limit second-chance opportunities for the Salthawks. Hutchinson battled defensively but had difficulty finding consistent offense against Maize South’s pressure and physical play inside.
In the nightcap, the Hutch High boys showed early promise, taking a slim 14-13 lead at the end of the first quarter. However, turnovers and cold shooting proved costly as the game wore on. Maize South capitalized on Hutchinson miscues to seize momentum in the second half and pulled away for a 54-43 victory.
The Salthawks were unable to regain their early rhythm after halftime, as missed shots and transition points by the Mavericks widened the gap down the stretch.
Hutchinson will have a short turnaround as both teams look to bounce back on Friday night when Salina South comes to town for “Pack the SAC Night,” benefiting the Reno County Food Bank. All school-age students are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to receive free admission, a T-shirt and a chance for their class to win a pizza party for donating the most pounds of food.
Tipoff for Friday’s doubleheader is set for the Salthawk Activity Center at 6pm for the girls game and 7:30pm for the boys match up.