The #3 seeded Hackett Sr High Hornets made it to the semi-final round of the 2A-4 District Tournament to face the #2 seeded Hector Wildcats. Both teams hit the court hungry for a championship title and both teams were more than willing to fight for it. The game was all tied up with a few minutes left on the clock but unfortunately, Hector was able to pull away and come out on top with a 44-35 final score. “I am extremely proud of my guys! They played with so much grit and left zero gas in the tank. We were all square with Hector with 2:30 left to play and a couple of untuned turnovers were the difference in the game,” explained coach, Kent Elmore.
Zach Gragg led the Hornets with 13 points followed by Cash Oliver with 12, Dylan Kats with eight, and Jake Fisher with two. “The best thing about it is we still get to get after it and prepare for a regional tournament! The growth my guys have shown throughout the year is beyond words. I really felt like we played a great two games during district. I’m proud of my guys and really like our chances to advance in the regional tournament. My guys have proven that they will stick to a game plan no matter what it may be. We have a few days left to prepare and with my guys’ focus, we will be ready to play.”
The Hackett Hornets will face the Yellville Panthers in the 2A West Regional Tournament which is being held this year in Eureka Springs. The Hornets are going into regional play with a 9-15 season record and will be representing the 2A-4 district while the Panthers are 18-7 and going to bat for the 2A-1. This match-up will take place on Thursday, February 27 at 8:30 p.m. “The growth of our team since November has been a joy to watch. My guys don’t want the season to be over. That kind of buy-in goes a long way. Our goal is to win and advance! The Hornets will be ready for the battle!” The winner of this game will advance on to face either Lavaca or Decatur on Friday, February 28.
