The Pioneer boys’ basketball team wrapped up 2024 with two impressive wins over SEC teams.
On Dec. 13, Pioneer outscored Bedford 27-6 in the second quarter and cruised to a 74-45 win over the Kicking Mules. Pioneer led 21-15 after the first quarter and 48-21 at halftime.
“I was impressed with our ability to share the ball and that had a lot to do with how well we shot it,” said Pioneer Coach Rich Marion. “I also liked how we got out in transition, kicked ahead and got to the rim off both makes and misses. It’s an unselfish group that just needs to get used to playing with each other.”
Senior Micah Powell led Pioneer with a game-high 17 points including three triples. Jordan Harrison had 12 points, Tyson McCoy had 10 points and Brandon Rink had eight points. Ten different players scored for the winners.
On Dec. 10, Pioneer outscored Lincoln 26-17 in the second half and knocked off the Railsplitters 54-50 in an SEC battle. Lincoln led 13-11 after the first quarter and 20-17 at halftime.
“It was a great team win, particularly defensively in the second half,” Marion said. “We also moved the ball better which helped us limit turnovers. These were the 2nd half keys. We were also much more balanced offensively which is vital for us moving forward.”
Powell, Harrison and Amir Lee all had 13 points in the win. Alex Karsch had eight points and a team-high seven rebounds.
Pioneer plays at Monroe on Friday.
