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Piper heats up the court, wins 64-35
Piper senior Brandan Jackson (21) threw down a dunk in the first half of a game against Tonganoxie. (Photo copyright 2019 by Brian Turrel)
by Brian Turrel
The Piper boys basketball team remain unbeaten on top of the Frontier League standings, posting a 64-35 win over Tonganoxie in Piper on Friday night.
The Pirates’ inside defense was the determining factor in the game, limiting the Chieftains’ opportunities around the basket. Braijion Barnes and Tamar Bates were particularly effective at stuffing and swatting Tonganoxie’s inside shots.
On the offensive end, Trey Bates showed off his range, picking up 3 three-pointers. Inlet passes to Brandan Jackson in the paint were also successful in the Pirates’ game plan.
Piper led the game from the start, taking a 20-6 first quarter lead. The Chieftains were never able to get enough traction against the strong defense for a comeback.
Tamar Bates led the Pirates with 16 points, while Trey Bates and Brandan Jackson each added 13.
The win gives the Pirates an 8-0 league record (13-3 overall). They hold a two-game lead over second-place Ottawa and Bonner Springs in the league. The Pirates will head to Bonner Springs for their next game on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.
Jada Simmons and Esrom Griffin were crowned courtwarming queen and king in a halftime ceremony.
Piper sophomore Tamar Bates (2) knocked away a Tonganoxie shot attempt. (Photo copyright 2019 by Brian Turrel)Piper senior Braijion Barnes (4) drove into the lane past Tonganoxie senior Drake Pray (21). (Photo copyright 2019 by Brian Turrel)Tamar Bates went up for a shot inside. (Photo copyright 2019 by Brian Turrel)Piper senior Braijion Barnes went high for a layup. (Photo copyright 2019 by Brian Turrel)Brandan Jackson shot a short jumper in the lane. (Photo copyright 2019 by Brian Turrel)Piper junior Christian Arndt (35) grabbed an offensive rebound, but looked for an outlet when faced with four defenders. (Photo copyright 2019 by Brian Turrel)On a fast break, Piper senior Trey Bates (1) flipped the ball to Jackson in the lane. (Photo copyright 2019 by Brian Turrel)Senior Jada Simmons was announced as courtwarming queen, applauded by her escort Braijion Barnes. (Photo copyright 2019 by Brian Turrel)Courtwarming king Esrom Griffin received his crown from last year’s queen Sophia Frick. (Photo copyright 2019 by Brian Turrel)
