LocalSportsJournal.com
PENTWATER — A slow start doomed the Pentwater girls basketball team in Tuesday night’s non-conference home game with Hesperia as the visitors claimed a tight, 39-33 victory.
Hesperia took a 10-point lead, 13-3 at the end of the first quarter. The Falcons outscored Hesperia, 11-9 in the second to trail, 22-14 at the half.
Both teams scored eight points in the third period, which left Hesperia holding an eight-point lead, 30-22 entering the fourth quarter. Pentwater had a 11-9 advantage in the final period, but Hesperia hung on.
“Once we regrouped, we slowly chipped our way back into the game,” Pentwater coach Joe Gorton said. “If we go back and eliminate that first (period), we outscore them the rest of the way.
“They have a very strong post player in Thinkham, and unfortunately she had quite the game tonight. We struggled all night trying to find ways to slow her down.
“It was nice to have almost the full squad back healthy. We get a chance to practice a few times before (we have) a three-game week next week.”
Mikaylyn Kenney had a big game for the Falcons, scoring 14 points and hauling down nine rebounds,
Emmet Tinkham went off for 28 points for Hesperia. Emma Joppich added six.
Pentwater saw its record drop to 1-6 overall with its fifth straight loss. Friday’s regularly schedule game with Baldwin has been cancelled. The Falcons are next scheduled to hit the hardwood Monday, Jan. 24 at home against Fruitport Calvary Christian.
Hesperia picked up its first win of the season after opening with five straight losses and is 1-5 overall. Hesperia is scheduled to travel to Holton on Friday for a Central State Activities Association Silver contest.
