YSE File Photo
It didn’t come easy but the Christian County Colonels now have their first win of the Dior Curtis era. After a cool shooting first half, the Colonels got hot during the second half and overtime as they outlasted Betsy Layne Saturday 79-76 in the Central Bank Jim Rose Classic to break their 10-game losing streak to open the season.
The game was close throughout. The Bobcats led 16-14 after the first quarter and then 29-25 at the break.
The Colonels had their struggles from the field in the first 16 minutes, making just 33 percent of their shots. Betsy Layne had the lead despite even colder shooting at just over 30 percent.
Christian County came out of the break and found its shooting eye. The Colonels took a 44-43 lead going into the final quarter of regulation.
Even with Christian County’s improved second half shooting, the Bobcats were able to force overtime, tying the game at 62-62 at the end of regulation.
After shooting 53.6 percent in the second half, the Colonels shot even better in the overtime and needed to as Betsy Layne kept charging after them. Christian County was able down the stretch to fend off the Bobcats and take the three-point win.
A big game for Christian County’s NaDarien Rowe, who finished with 24 points and 6 rebounds. Kam Williams ended up with a double-double of 17 points and 13 rebounds. Rahsean Stevenson also came up with a double-double with 13 points and 13 boards. Zion Acree was the fourth Colonel to reach double figures with 10.
The Bobcats were paced by Carter Parsons with 23 points. Cameron Pente added 21 points and 11 rebounds for Betsy Layne.
Christian County (1-10) will play in the consolation bracket championship Sunday afternoon taking on the host team for the tournament Lexington Christian. LCA knocked off Rockcastle County in Saturday’s action.
