By Payton Hannah (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
Hartville defeated West Plains on Monday night in the Gold Division semifinal, earning a 65–38 victory. Both teams came into the matchup riding strong runs, with Hartville having defeated Mt. Vernon and West Plains topping Ozark to reach the semifinals.
The game began at a slow pace, as neither team could find its rhythm early, until Hartville’s Jordan O’Quinn ended the scoring drought, igniting the Eagles’ offense. West Plains quickly responded when Ethan Miller connected on a long-range three to end the Zizzers’ own early scoring dry spell.
Hartville maintained control through the first quarter, fueled by defensive plays and fast-break opportunities. Eagles guard Boone Garrison showed his defensive capability with a steal that led to a crafty layup by teammate Gus Sinning, helping the Eagles build momentum. West Plains cut into the lead late when Gavin Kenslow converted a tough putback and drew the foul for an and-one, but Hartville still held a 17–10 advantage after the opening period.
CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS OF THE GAME
The Eagles extended their advantage in the second quarter, as senior guard Truett Coryell opened with a deep three-pointer. Coryell continued to make an impact on both ends of the floor, recording a steal that set up another basket for Sinning. Sinning dominated inside, scoring efficiently and grabbing nearly every available rebound, while Hartville gradually extended its lead. West Plains stayed in the game thanks to Miller, who finished the first half with four three-pointers, keeping the Zizzers within reach. Hartville carried a 28–18 lead into halftime.
West Plains came out of the break with improved ball movement, resulting in a corner three-pointer by Jared Kraft. Kraft followed with another deep shot and a smooth layup, bringing the Zizzers within single digits. Hartville countered with disciplined passing and efficient offense, with Sinning continuing to assert himself in the paint. The Eagles held a 47–28 advantage heading into the fourth quarter.
Hartville rode that momentum to the finish, sharing the ball and controlling the paint on both ends. The Eagles cruised in the final period to secure the 65–38 victory over West Plains. With the win, Hartville advances to the Gold Division championship.
CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO OF THE GAME
“I think we have been doing that within our program for years and years. We take a lot of pride in having discipline offensively and playing unselfish basketball, as well as having pride in defense and rebounding, which I thought we did an exceptional job of tonight,” Hartville head coach Brett Reed said about the team.
Looking ahead to the championship game against Nixa, Reed added, “We’re excited to be here and have the opportunity to play for a title. Nixa is a great team and well coached, and we’re going to go out and compete and try to play as the best versions of ourselves.”
Hartville will face Nixa tomorrow at 7 p.m.
Hartville 17-11-21-18-(65)
West Plains 10-8-10-7-(35)
Top Performers
Hartville: Gus Sinning 21, Mason Cogdill 17, Jordan O’Quinn 9
West Plains: Ethan Miller 13, Jared Kraft 11, Aden Judd 5
