Hillsboro put on a great show in the final game of their regular season.
They started out fairly evenly matched with Nickerson, but things soon changed toward the end of the first half.
“Brooks (Gardner) had back to back steals in the first half that resulted in fast break points and changed the momentum of the game,” said Hillsboro Head Coach Darrel Knoll.
The first half ended with Nickerson up four points, but Hillsboro would soon catch up go on a run.
Hillsboro continued the momentum they began building and outscored Nickerson in the third quarter.
The game was won in the 4th quarter though.
Hillsboro shut Nickerson down with their defense as they prevented Nickerson from scoring more than six points in the quarter.
The depth of the Trojans played a big role in their fourth quarter. Nickerson only played seven players deep.
“It was good to have nine players contribute in scoring, but more impressively to have everyone play solid defense.We were able to force 19 turnovers, which was a difference in the game,” said Knoll.
Two seniors scored in double figures. Wes Shaw led the way with 16 points and Darrien Ratzlaff with 10 points. Ratzlaff also led the game with six assists.
“What a great game for senior night! We beat a really good team that was undefeated in league play. I was impressed and pleased with how we battled the entire game, and especially how we managed the last two minutes of the game,” said Knoll. “It was a great team win.”
Coming – Hillsboro beat Wabaunsee Monday night 78-64. They will play Marion on Thursday at Marion.
