WILLIAMSBURG — Williamsburg demonstrated its championship spirit in a thrilling district battle against rival Whitley County on Friday.
The Yellow Jackets showed resilience throughout the closely contested game, enduring Whitley County’s best efforts before securing a remarkable 61-60 victory.
Coach Anthony Hibbard’s team has had an exceptional week, achieving a flawless 4-0 record, winning the 13th Region All ‘A’ Classic championship, ending an 11-game losing streak against 50th District competition, and breaking a three-game losing streak against Whitley County.
“Wow! What a crazy week,” Hibbard said. “We are just incredibly proud of our kids and staff. Tonight was a huge win for us. Again, not many people thought we could pull it off tonight. We really believe in our kids and they are beginning to see the return on their hard work and perseverance. “First half of the season was tough, but it prepared us for tonight,” he added. “Our guys knew the assignment and executed. The aspect that we love is that it is not just one individual, it’s everyone. It is exciting when you see things start coming together.”
The Colonels were trailing 59-57 before nailing a 3-pointer with 24 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter to take a 60-59 lead.
Williamsburg’s Andrew Smith connected with the game-winning shot seconds later to help his team even their district record at 1-1 while improving to 10-8. The loss dropped Whitley County to 13-3, and 0-1 in 50th District play.
“Credit to Williamsburg, they are playing really well right now and were solid against our pressure,” Whitley County coach Eric Swords said. “We have to use this to lock in and get better. Adversity in life and basketball will reveal what type of character we have. We will own it and get back to it.”
Smith led all scorers with 22 points while Henry Bowling added 14 points and Conner Saylor finished with 10 points. Cooper Prewitt chipped in eight points.
“Andrew played incredible tonight,” Hibbard said. “He has grown so much as an individual. The way he is maintaining his composure is a complete 180 from last season. Big things coming for him.
“I’m not surprised by what Henry Bowling is doing,” he added. “He’s one of the best all-around athletes in our region and his confidence is growing every day. Again, we are also seeing growth from Cooper Prewitt, Conner Saylor, Lakin Cunagin, Dalton Henderson, and Zach Bowen. We have ways to go, but I’m excited.”
Whitley County led 14-13 at the end of the first quarter before the Colonels found themselves trailing, 27-26, at halftime. The Colonels regained a 42-41 advantage heading into the fourth quarter.
Lucas Queener and Dre Ellis led Whitley County with 16 points apiece while Bryson Mahan finished with nine points, and Jackson Petrey scored eight points.
