Sports
Free Throws Make Difference in Spartan Win
By: Chloe Szakovits, Rob Ellerhorst
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After a dominating Alexander first half, the Vinton County Vikings played competitively throughout the second half to bring themselves within two points. In the end, free throws proved valuable.
Vinton County’s Derrick Jones, who went 9 for 12 from the line tonight, missed two straight shots from the line, while Alexander’s Jake Weaver nailed both of his, to snag the 59-54 win for the Spartans.
The victory also secured at least a split of the TVC Ohio title for the Spartans.
While Weaver helped end the game for Alexander, Seth Richardson started the game for the team. In the first half, he shot 3 for 3 from behind the arc and scored 16 of the team’s 26 points in the half. He would go on to finish with a total of 18 points and three rebounds.
Mason Chapman also contribute, finishing the game with 10 points, five rebounds and four assists.
The Spartans did have trouble with ball handling, especially in the second half. Coming out of the locker room, the Vikings forced three turnovers that allowed them to rattle of seven-straight points and brought them into play.
Beginning in the second the Vikings started off strong, rattling off seven straight to close the deficit, but the Spartans really started to kick into gear at this point.
Off the court, the Spartan’s home court advantage brought one of the largest crowds the team has seen all year. Extra bleachers were brought to accommodate the fans.
Additionally, before the game, a moment of silence was held for former Alexander baseball coach Vaughn Grigsby, who passed away Monday night.
Alexander continues play Feb. 5 on the road at Meigs. Vinton County also travels on Feb. 5 to square off against River Valley.