The Patrick County High Boys varsity basketball team got off to a fast start against district opponent James River on February 5, and never trailed in a 69-40 win on senior night for the Cougars.
Back on January 20, at James River, the Cougars got off to a slow start and could not overcome the early deficit.
“I told the kids before we came out tonight that we had to get off to a much better start and play with energy and passion,” said Cougar Head Coach Brian Chitwood, “and I thought our kids did.”
The Cougars came out strong, hitting a three-point shot to open the scoring, taking a lead they would never relinquish. In the first quarter, the Cougars went on 6-0 and 7-0 runs, building a ten point, 15-5 lead heading into the second quarter.
Patrick County played tight team defense throughout, allowing few open shots for the visiting Knights. “We played physical, controlled the boards and we ran the floor, and that creates easy buckets,” Chitwood said of the Cougars’ defensive effort.
Starting the second half leading 30-13, the Cougars didn’t let up. They went on 12-2 run to extend their lead, highlighted by a Tyler Marshall slam dunk off a James River turnover, bringing the Cougar fans to their feet. Patrick County took a 52-24 lead in the final quarter, where solid defense and hustle cemented the 69-40 win.
After being honored in a pre-game ceremony, Cougar seniors Stuart Callahan and Nate Large had impressive performances during the game. Callahan led the Cougars with 10 points and 5 rebounds, with Large adding 9 points.
Of his seniors, coach Chitwood said he was “very pleased and proud of those kids,” adding they are, “top notch guys.”
Chitwood was also proud of the way the team played for their senior teammates. “We talked about that in the locker room. Let’s go out and give them the effort we would want our guys to give us. Real pleased with the effort that we gave tonight. Good win.”
Noah Jessup finished the game with 8 points, 4 assists and 3 steals. Easton Harris and Ben Sutphin each chipped in 8 points.
