In a captivating battle on the hardwood, The Judson Rockets emerged victorious over The East Central Hornets in an 80-75 encounter.
Slow Start, Fierce Competition
The game commenced with a cautious start, the first quarter ending in a stalemate at 13-13. The Hornets’ William Franklin emerged as the leading scorer at halftime, with 11 points. Franklin and his teammate Jamel Wolford combined for an impressive five three-pointers in the first half.
Rockets Surge in Second Half
The second half witnessed a surge in intensity from the Rockets. Ja’Shaun’s sharp shooting, contributing eight of his 13 points, kept the Hornets at bay. However, the Hornets remained competitive, with Franklin and Wolford continuing to lead their offense.
Fourth Quarter Dominance
The fourth quarter proved to be the Rockets’ turning point. Elijah Favela exploded for 10 of his 18 points, fueling a 27-point outburst that surged them ahead. Jaylen Crittendon, Ivan Dorn, and Gerald O’Neal each contributed double-digit points, showcasing the Rockets’ depth and teamwork.
Balanced Scoring
Both teams displayed balanced scoring, with five Rockets and four Hornets scoring in double figures. Wolford and Christopher Garcia each had 15 points for the Hornets, while Zahir Williams added 14.
Defense and Rebounding Key to Victory
The Rockets’ defense and relentless rebounding efforts in the fourth quarter proved decisive. They held the Hornets to 14 points and dominated the boards, securing key possessions that allowed them to pull away and secure the victory.
Conclusion
This thrilling contest showcased the talent and determination of both teams. The Rockets’ second-half surge and balanced scoring propelled them to victory, while the Hornets fought valiantly throughout. The game serves as a testament to the passion and excitement of high school basketball.
Next for Both Teams:
The Rockets face the Steele Knights on January 28, 2025, in the second round of district play. Judson will look to avenge their narrow 73-77 overtime loss to the Knights earlier this season. Meanwhile, the Hornets take on the Knights on Friday, January 24, 2025. This will be their second matchup, as the Hornets previously fell to Steele by just two points.
