Leesville basketball opened conference play Friday night against Heritage at home. The Huskies’ were able to steal a win from the Pride, 66-61.
Alex Hunter scored 23 points Friday night and made five of six of his three-point shots. He kept Leesville in the game at times, hitting key shots when they needed it. The Furman commit, Hunter, has been the Pride’s most consistent so far during the season.
“Alex is consistent, hard working and has a knack for making big plays. He just keeps getting better, and it kept us going for sure,” said Russ Frazier, head coach of Leesville.
Leesville was firing on all cylinders from three-point range, grabbing a 29-22 lead with 3:43 left in the second quarter. Heritage did not go quietly into the half, as they responded to the Pride’s run, with a 14-5 run to end the first half.
The second half proved to be as good as the first, with both teams battling back and forth exchanging points and momentum.
Hertiage’s Jayden Gardner gave the Pride trouble underneath the basket all game long and finished with 19 points and 14 rebounds.
Leesville had a two point lead with under 30 seconds to go, but Heritage’s Ian Hinkley hit a three-pointer that ended up being the game winning shot. Heritage added two free throws to give them the five-point victory over the Pride.
“We have to execute offensively better, defend better and work as a whole group to make sure those things improve,” said Frazier.
Despite the loss, the Loonies showed out as always, bringing a great atmosphere to the game. “Amazing atmosphere! That’s what makes Leesville special! I am very thankful for everyone coming! Hope you all continue to come,” said Frazier.
The Pride look to rebound this week as they travel to Broughton tomorrow night for another tough Cap-8 opponent. Follow @LeesvilleMBB for updates on the game.
