By JAYCEE DALE
The Hays High School boys’ basketball team hosted in-town rival Thomas More Prep-Marian in the first round of the Hays City Shootout on Thursday night at the HHS gym.
The Indians were able to pull away early for a 69-36 win.
Hays High (1-0) was aided by a big senior lineup, including starters Wes Oakley, Noah Weimer, Carson Keiffer, Jace Linenberger and Jordan Dale.
Indians came out hot, going on a 10-2 run in the first quarter. TMP (0-1) struggled in the opening quarter against Hays High’s lockdown defense. HHS was able to hold the Monarchs to only nine points in the opening frame, taking a 19-9 lead.
Hays High pushed the ball up and down the court, making it a fast-paced game both defensively and offensively. TMP was unable to make offensive plays in the second quarter, and Hays High took a 37-16 advantage into halftime.
HHS stretched its lead to 25 in the third quarter with back-to-back 3’s from Noah Weimer. TMP trailed 56-29 entering the final period.
HHS was able to go deep into its bench for the rest of the fourth quarter.
Jace Wentling led TMP with 16 points, and Jace Linenberger paced HHS with 18.
Hays High will face Olathe West in the second round of the Hays City Shootout at 8:15 tonight in hopes to head to Saturday’s championship.
