LocalSportsJournal.com
NEWAYGO – One need only look at what happened in the first quarter of Newaygo’s 59-48 win over Hart to see the full story.
The Lions used a strong defensive effort to build a 14-3 advantage in the initial period, setting the wrong tone for their opponent. Hart’s offense failed to click for the majority of the first half, allowing Newaygo to build their lead up to as many as 18.
Hart did go on a small run near halftime, but the game was never closer than an 11-point deficit for the Pirates.
Newaygo was led by Logan Klomp with 20 points and six rebounds, and Josiah Long with 13 points and four assists. Jarryn Schmitt added eight points while Blake Kerr and Caris Nelson each had seven. Nelson also recorded five rebounds and dished out nine assists.
For Hart, Blake Weirich was the top scorer with 12 points, also adding nine rebounds. Ty Schlukebir contributed eight points.
Hart (9-9, 6-2 WMC Rivers) fell back to .500 with the non-conference loss and will look to bounce back when they take on Ravenna on Tuesday.
Newaygo (10-7, 5-3 CSAA) have just three regular season games remaining as they start their final stretch with a road trip to Howard City where they’ll take on Tri-County.
