Caldwell County couldn’t have gotten off to a much better start in its home opener Friday night, running out to a 12-0 lead against Hopkinsville.
However, in the end, Hoptown extended its long winning streak against Caldwell, overcoming the early deficit to post a 71-61 victory at the CAB gym.
Four players scored in double figures for the black-and-orange Tigers, with Jonathan Hart and James Bradley each scoring 18 points. Jonovan Leavell had 17 points and Deavery Ramey had 12.
That helped Hopkinsville beat Caldwell for the 21st straight time dating back to the 2008 season. Hoptown leads the all-time series 77-26.
It was a strong second half that turned things around for the visitors, who trailed 18-13 after one quarter and 33-29 at halftime.
Hopkinsville (1-1) increased the intensity of its full-court press after halftime.
A three-point play by Bradley gave Hoptown its first lead of the night at 43-42 with 3:17 left in the third period.
Hopkinsville took a 51-49 advantage to the final frame, but the game remained tight for much of the fourth quarter.
Caldwell (1-1) was still within 61-57 following Collin Whittington’s jumper with 2:39 remaining.
Hoptown countered at the other end with a 3 by Hart, and Hopkinsville took its first double-digit lead of the night at 67-57 when Leavell made one of two free throws with 1:07 to play.
Hopkinsville’s balanced offense overcame a huge night from Caldwell’s Jaydarius Wilson, who had 27 points and 15 rebounds for the blue-and-gold Tigers.
Hopkinsville is back in action on Saturday when it faces Bardstown in the Farmer’s Bank and Trust Tip-Off Classic at Muhlenberg County.
Caldwell will play at home again on Tuesday against Union County.
Hopkinsville 13 16 22 20 — 71
Caldwell County 18 15 16 12 — 61
Hopkinsville (1-1)—Hart 18, Bradley 18, Leavell 17, Ramey 12, Giltner 4, Bass 2.
Caldwell County (1-1)—J. Wilson 27, Whittington 9, Parker 8, Aikins 7, K. Wilson 7, Rowland 2, Spikes 1.
