GLEN GRUNWALD
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan.—The Hutchinson Salthawk basketball teams started the season with wins at the Salthawk Activity Center Tuesday night.
The Hutch High Girls had to rally in the 4th quarter of play after trailing 33-30 at one time in the second half to Salina South, but found a way to pull away with a hard fought 45-41 victory over Salina Central.
Senior Aliyah Green led the way for the Salthawks with 19 points followed by Grace Posch with 10 points and Hannah Ames with 10 points.
In the nightcap, the Salthawk Boys exploded with a 21-4 run in the 3rd quarter to win over the Mustangs 60-27. Garrett Robertson led the way with 19 points, including 5 three point baskets, and aided by Daunte King's 17 points. Salina Central's Senior Kenyon McMillan led the Mustangs with 7.
Hutchinson led 9-8 at the end of the first quarter but closed out the second quarter strong to lead 28-16 at intermission. Then the Salthawks put the game away with that 21-4 third quarter.
Hutch High Boys (1-0) play host to Buhler (1-1) Friday night at home.
The Salthawk Girls (1-0) will also play Buhler (1-1) and will have the early game Friday with a 6 p.m. tip.
GAME NOTE: Fans are urged to bring a "new" stuffed animal Friday night to throw on to the court at half-time of the Boys game to contribute to local youth programs for Christmas.