Hardwood Heroes

Our Daniel Barnard recaps the matchup between the Alexander Lady Spartans and Vinton County Lady Vikings on January 23rd, 2023

Alexander Lady Spartans hold on for their first win over Vinton County 49-45


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Alexander, Ohio (WOUB) – Following a loss at Coal Grove Saturday, the Alexander Spartans returned home to face off against the Vinton County Vikings. The Spartans were able to maintain their first win of the season by a score of 49-45.

As soon as tip off occurred it was clear that the Spartans came to battle. Off the opening tip Alexander scored a layup and the whole building erupted. From that point on the electricity of the game did not decrease. 

Throughout the first half each team would take turns maintaining the lead, with neither team being able to pull away from the other. It was apparent that this game would be going down to the wire. As halftime hit the Spartans had a slim lead going into the locker room, with their first win on their mind they knew they would have to come out of the break focused. On the other hand, the Vikings had to focus on themselves and figure a game plan to stop Kaylee Hudnall.

Kaylee Hudnall, the standout freshman for Alexander, finished the game with 26 points along with 6 rebounds and 5 assists. She was constantly able to drive to the basket and create contact with defenders which allowed her to get to the line 21 times. Fifteen of Hudnall’s 26 points game off free throws, which was the key to success for the Spartans as they were able to get to the line all game. 

The Spartans started the second half off a little more sluggish than they did in the first half, so Alexander head coach, Morgan Grinstead, called a timeout and gave a compelling speech to the team. What Coach Grinstead said to her team worked, because they came out of that timeout with a much-needed increase in tempo. 

The two teams entered the fourth quarter neck and neck with them trading baskets throughout the quarter. However, nearing the end of the game the Spartans were able to mount a run which included some huge defensive stops and clutch baskets. This run allowed them to pull away from Vinton County with a lead, which with this run and the support from the home crowd they were able to maintain the lead and get their first win of the season.

Coming off this impressive win the Alexander Spartans look to mount a win streak to end their season. They are set to take on Wellston this Thursday Night.