MIDDLESBORO — A slow start led to Corbin staring at a 30-27 deficit at halftime against a much-improved Middlesboro squad.
Coach Tony Pietrowski’s squad came out in the second half, looking like a totally different team.
The Redhounds outscored the Yellow Jackets, 46-18, in the second half to cruise to a 73-48 win.
Corbin (19-8) will enter postseason play riding a three-game win streak. The loss dropped Middlesboro to 10-19.
“Tale of two halves,” Pietrowski said. “Thought we really buckled down defensively in the second half and played much more aggressively offensively.
“I knew coming in that Middlesboro was a much better team than their record indicates,” he added. “They are big, strong and athletic. Coach Wheat has done an excellent job with them this season.”
Ryder Akins turned in one of his best efforts of the season, scoring 27 points while hitting seven 3-pointers. Zander Curry added 15 points while Eli Pietrowski finished with 14 points. Trey Worley chipped in eight points.”
“Ryder really shined in tonight’s game,” Pietrowski said. “He kept us in it the first half and kept that high level of play in the second half as well. Zander, Trey and Eli went to war in the second half. Proud of them.”
Cayden Grigsby led the Yellow Jackets with 18 points while Jeremah Back added 11 points.
Pietrowski said his team will now switch its focus to next week’s 50th District semifinal matchup with Williamsburg.
“All eyes turn to Williamsburg. We need to have some good preparation and practices heading into Tuesday night’s game,” he said.
