St. Joseph-Ogden's Ryker Lockhart and Tim Blackburn-Kelley try to grab a loose ball during their team's season opener at the Toyota of Danville Classic on Monday.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
ST. JOSEPH - St. Joseph-Ogden opened their season in commanding fashion Monday, defeating Arthur-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond 77-33 in the
Toyota of Danville Classic. Led by senior Collin Thomey’s 20-point performance, SJO utilized decisive scoring runs to overpower the Knights and showcase their explosive offensive сapabilities.
With ALAH's Kendall Schrock guarding him, Spartan Collin Thomey slashes to the basket. The senior led all scorers with 20 points.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
The Spartans (1-0) jumped out to a 9-0 lead before Will Hilligoss put ALAH on the board, setting the tone for the game. A six-point run midway through the first quarter, highlighted by strong interior play from
Tanner Siems, pushed the score to 22-11. Another six-point burst in the second quarter stretched the lead from 22-14 to 31-14, creating a cushion that the Knights could not overcome.
SJO’s dominance peaked in the third quarter with an 11-point scoring run out of the halftime break. Siems fueled the charge with back-to-back buckets before Thomey scored three consecutive baskets to put the game out of reach at 53-21.
SJO’s offensive firepower was evident, with four players finishing in double figures. Thomey led all scorers with 20 points, converting six of seven free throws. Siems contributed 13 points, including pivotal moments during the Spartans' runs. Lane McKinney provided a spark off the bench with 11 points in the fourth quarter, while
Tim Blackburn-Kelley added 10 points in limited action.
SJO's Tanner Siems swats a shot attempt by ALAH's Will Hilligoss during the second half. The senior finished with 13 points in the team's first game of the season.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
The Spartans’ defense stifled ALAH (0-2), holding the Knights to just five points in the third quarter and forcing numerous turnovers. Nate Hale led ALAH with 11 points, followed by Hilligoss with eight, while Brennon Hutson and Kendall Schrock chipped in four apiece.
SJO faces Watseka tonight at 6:30 PM in the Main Gym after ALAH's 5 PM matchup against Charleston, who also seeks redemption after a 59-44 loss to Triad last week.
