LocalSportJournal.com
HART – A rematch of the 2022 regional final game saw Kent City battle back from a rough start to down Hart in overtime, 52-46.
The Pirates were rolling early, using good ball movement to shoot their offense out on a 16-5 run through the first eight minutes of play. Kent City woke up in the second quarter, using Hart’s mistakes to help them knot things up at 20 a piece before halftime.
Struggles compounded for Hart in the third quarter as the Eagles’ defense held the Pirates to just one made shot from the field. That allowed Kent City to jump in front 35-25.
In the fourth quarter, Hart saw a good defensive effort of its own. Mistakes by Kent City and capitalizing on mismatches allowed the Pirates to regain the lead with inside a minute remaining in regulation. A missed box-out in the final seconds allowed the Eagles’ to score, leaving things even at the end of four quarters and forcing overtime.
In the extra period, mistakes were once again the name of the game for Hart. Kent City was able to get back in front and run a stall offense, forcing the Pirates to foul and leaving the Eagles on top for good.
Hart saw great effort from multiple players with Abby Hicks leading the way with 21 points and 10 rebounds. Addi Hovey added 11 points, five rebounds and five assists while Rilynn Porter had seven points and Kelsey Copenhaver chipped in 11 rebounds.
The Pirates (12-4, 9-0 WMC Rivers) may have lost, but they’re still winners in 10 of their last 12 games. Hart will host Hesperia on Thursday as they look to remain unbeaten in conference play.
