PINEVILLE — Knox Central moved one step closer to the 51st District’s top seed by handing homestanding Pineville a 78-67 loss on Tuesday.
The Panthers have made huge strides in Mitchell Madden’s first year as coach. After only winning four games last season, Knox Central now has 14.
Madden’s squad also possesses a perfect 2-0 district record while the Mountain Lions fell to 12-6 overall and 2-1 against district opponents.
“I’m so proud of the kids,” Madden said. “Great district win for my team. The game was a battle from the tip. Pineville is a well-coached, really good team. We had several kids step up big tonight.
“Gavin (Chadwell) got in foul trouble and eighth grader Evan Hubbard came off the bench and was a game-changer. These kids, no matter who I have in, always give me their all. I can’t say enough how blessed I am to be a part of this Knox Central group.”
Gavin Chadwell finished with 18 points and 10 rebounds while Austin Bargo finished with 16 points. Grayson Burton added 17 points while Brayden Mills scored 10 points. Evan Hubbard had six points and eight rebounds.
Ashton Moser led Pineville with 23 points while Sawyer Thompson scored 20 points.
