by Brian Turrel
The Washington Wildcats boys basketball team posted a strong start to the 2018-2019 season, defeating Topeka’s Highland Park Scots 68-49 Friday evening at home.
The Wildcats sprang to an early lead, taking a 10-point advantage midway through the first quarter. The Wildcats found plenty of success driving the lane for layups.
Another big key to their success was strong perimeter defense that limited the Scots’ inside opportunities and provided fast-break chances.
The Wildcats held a 33-22 lead at halftime. The Scots pulled within 8 on a 3-pointer just after the break, but never seriously threatened the Washington advantage. A 28-point offensive showing in the third quarter by the Wildcats put the game out of reach.
Alton Easley led the scoring for Washington with 26 points. Nathan Johnson Jr. added 22. Both were strong inside scorers, and only one of Washington’s 23 made field goals was from 3-point range. Jahi Peppers led the Scots with 18 points.
Washington holds a 1-0 record in the young season, and will play the next game at Leavenworth on Dec. 6.
