MIDDLESBORO — A slow start didn’t keep Eric Swords’ Whitley County Colonels from handing Middlesboro its first loss of the season.
The Colonels were trailing 24-15 at halftime before hitting stride in the second half to defeat the Yellow Jackets, 62-55.
Whitley County outscored Middlesboro, 47-31 during the game’s final 16 minutes as Evans Ellis scored 24 of his 31 points.
“We came out flat in the first half and couldn’t get a rhythm,” Swords said. “Our defensive effort wasn’t close to where it needed to be and that carried over to the offensive end.
“I thought we got great energy and play from our bench guys, Tootie, Rowe and Fuston. Evan was able to get loose in the second half to get us over the hump offensively.”
Whitley County trailed 42-36 entering the fourth quarter before outscoring Middlesboro, 26-11, to wrap-up the victory.
Bryson Mahon and Jackson Petrey each finished with nine points while Jeremiah Beck led the Yellow Jackets with 22 points, and Trey King added 11 points. Bryce Bowling also scored in double figures, finishing with 10 points.
“I’m proud of our kids, although I was mad at them in the first half,” Swords said. “We could have easily folded the tent but guys dug deep and battled hard. It was the next man up mentality. Hopefully, this game will spring us forward as a team.”
