HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After more than a month away from the Salthawk Activity Center, Hutchinson High School’s girls and boys basketball teams returned home Tuesday night, splitting a doubleheader with Valley Center.
The Lady Salthawks rallied in the second half to defeat the Hornets 50-41, while the Hutchinson boys struggled down the stretch in a 65-46 loss.
Girls rally again behind Morgan
Trailing 20-19 at halftime, Hutchinson’s girls turned up the defensive pressure and found their rhythm offensively in the second half to pull away for a 50-41 victory.
Freshman Danai Morgan led the charge with 22 points as Hutchinson improved to 9-8 on the season and completed a season sweep of the Hornets.
Much like the first meeting in Valley Center over a month ago, the contest was tight through the first two quarters before Hutchinson created separation after halftime. The Salthawks limited Valley Center’s second-half opportunities while capitalizing in transition and at the free-throw line to steadily build their lead.
With the win, Hutchinson continues its push for a potential first-round home game in substate play.
The Lady Salthawks will next host Derby on Friday night as part of Winter Homecoming festivities at the SAC.
Boys undone by fourth-quarter surge
In the nightcap, Hutchinson stayed within striking distance early but could not overcome a decisive fourth quarter by Valley Center in a 65-46 defeat.
The Salthawks trailed by five at halftime but allowed the Hornets to pull away late, surrendering 24 points in the fourth quarter.
Junior Larry Jeremiah Jr. scored a season-high 21 points to lead Hutchinson, but Valley Center’s tight man-to-man defense and half-court traps limited the rest of the Salthawk offense. Only three Hutchinson players scored in the contest, and 28 turnovers proved costly.
Valley Center was led by Evan Chavez with 17 points and Nash Jamolod with 15.
The loss drops Hutchinson to 6-11 on the season, while Valley Center improved to 7-10.
Hutchinson will look to bounce back Friday at home against Derby before heading back on the road for two games next week.