Christmas break is over, but the real fun is beginning for Winston Academy on the hardwood.
After the Christmas holidays ended, the Patriots and Lady Patriots were back on the court at the Columbus Christian Tournament last week for a two-day event. Unfortunately, both teams would split against good competition.
The boys started things off against Sylva Bay on Wednesday. In the defensive battle with the Saints, the Patriots would get the upper hand as WA stifled Sylva Bay on the offensive end in a 41-26 victory.
Winston set the tone in quarter one when the team held Sylva Bay to just two points and would take a 19-14 lead into the break. However, the lead was extended to double digits after the third quarter as WA coasted to the win.
Secatra Miller led the team with 12 points, while Trey Williamson finished with 11. Miller made 4-of-6 free throws to help lead the way and scored 10 of his points in the second half.
A tough West Lowndes team was a major test for the Patriots on Thursday, and it was all WLHS in a 79-42 loss for WA. Miller again led the team with 14 points, while Omar Scott had 14.
The split decisions made WA 10-4 on the year. Up next, the team looks to improve on its 2-1 district record as they traveled to Leake Academy on Tuesday. The Pats will come back home on Thursday to host East Rankin.
Girls
Much like the boys, the girls also split their decisions in Columbus. Starting off against a familiar foe in Heritage Academy and former head coach Moe Reed, the Lady Patriots of Heritage came out on top 55-43.
A close game just before the half started to take a turn when Heritage hit a buzzer-beater beyond the halfcourt line to take an eight-point lead. Heritage had control the rest of the way.
Anncarter Perkins and Hailey Bradford each had 12 points in the game. Bradford also had seven rebounds.
WA rebounded the next day, taking on the Lady Panthers of West Lowndes. Bradford went for 17 points and eight rebounds as she helped WA run out a big lead and win the game 59-39. Bradford was 7-of-15 shooting in the win.
Betsy Karson Hatcher finished with 12 points on 5-of-7, while Braley Dickerson scored nine points and hauled ten rebounds. Madi Lee had six steals and six points.
The win improved the team to 11-5 on the year, and they are 1-2 in district play.
