by Brian Turrel
The Piper Pirates came frustratingly close to avenging last year’s Spring Hill tournament loss to Eisenhower High School, ending up on the short side of the 70-61 final score.
In the first half, Piper played the Tigers to a 29-29 draw. The Pirates’ defense disrupted Eisenhower’s drives inside, and Braijion Barnes limited their shots with strong defensive rebounding.
Piper junior Trey Bates lived up to his nickname, lighting up the third quarter with three 3-point shots and giving Piper a one-point lead midway through the third.
Eisenhower’s Dylan Vincent responded with 13 points in the quarter (35 in the game), and the Tigers held a seven-point advantage at the start of the fourth quarter.
Early in the fourth quarter, Piper pulled within three points on two quick Bryce Yoder three pointers, but they couldn’t get any closer. Eisenhower forced Piper into quick, unsuccessful shots on the Pirates’ last few possessions, while extending their lead with transition baskets and free throws.
Bates led Piper’s scoring with 21 points in the game, while Barnes added 12. Cooper Beebe was active in the paint on both ends, picking up 8 points along with key rebounds and blocks.
On Friday at 6:30 p.m., Piper will play against Gardner High School for third place in the tournament. Eisenhower moves on to the championship game against Olathe South.
