The Macks Creek Pirates season started off with a rematch of the District semi-final game at Weaubleau. Weaubleau's season ended last year on their home court at the hands of the Pirates and it looked to be another tight game.
The first quarter saw several lead changes but foul trouble bit Macks Creek and the Tigers took advantage late in the first and throughout the second quarter pushing their lead from 6 at the end of the first to 15 at halftime.
With their starting lineup back in the game to start the third quarter the Pirates went on a 9-0 run to close the gap to 6, but a timeout stopped the momentum and Macks Creek could get no closer, losing by a final of 76-61.
Hunter Lane picked up where he left of last year leading all scorers with 23 points and pulling down 17 rebounds. He also had 8 blocks on the night. Senior teammate Colton Walter added 11 points, 5 boards and 6 assists.
"We played 10 guys tonight, 5 with no varsity experience, so I was pleased with our effort and very pleased with the younger players. Our goal is a district championship, so we are building a strong base to get us there. Tonight was just the first step towards that goal," commented Coach Ron Duggan.
Macks Creek evened its record to 1 -1 with a convincing 84-52 win at Stoutland on Monday, November 25.
The Pirates jumped out to a 40-25 lead at halftime and cruised to the 32 point win. Colton Walter had a career night with 32 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists.
"I thought Colton did a tremendous job of attacking the basket after struggling early with his 3-point shot", added Coach Duggan. He finished shooting 12 for 16 from the 2-point range.
Hunter Lane controlled the boards again with 17 rebounds to go along with his 23 points and 5 assists. Hunter was also 3 for 5 from the three point line which will have opponents big men scratching their heads on how to guard him. Senior teammate Cole Register who is always asked to guard the opponents best shooter, had foul trouble early, but still added 12 points, 3 assists and 3 steals. Freshman Chase Whitworth (7 assists and 4 steals) and Logan Gallamore (6 points, 3 assists and 5 steals) did a tremendous job for only their second Varsity game. They will be a great addition to this team and the speed in which they bring.
The Junior Varsity Pirates split the first two games losing at Weaubleau 19-31 and winning at Stoutland 16-12. Both games were only 2 quarters each. Obee Tower and Alex Eidson led the scoring against the Tigers with 5 and 4 points respectively and Logan Gallamore and Grant English led against Stoutland with 6 and 4 points.