James Kenan’s No. 2 Zamarion Smith, steps to the free-throw line and sinks both shots for two points.
James Kenan’s No. 2 Zamarion Smith, rises up and knocks down a deep three-pointer over a Raiders defender.
WARSAW — The James Kenan Tigers entered the night with confidence with momentum as they delivered in front of the home crowd. Coming in at (6–1) the Tigers looked to continue their tradition of dominant basketball as they hosted conference rival Midway Raiders (4–7). Both teams are unbeaten in Swine Valley Conference play, setting the stage for an exciting matchup, and it didn’t disappoint.
First Quarter: Fast Pace Sets the Tone
Midway set the tone early with the opening basket by No. 10 Ace Matthews, but the Tigers quickly answered with a big three-pointer from No. 1 Eli Avent to get on the board. Strong footwork and a basket by No. 2 Zamarion Smith gave James Kenan an early lead, though the Raiders stayed aggressive, responding with a quick layup.
The back and forth action continued as No. 3 Jeremiah Hall scored off a steal for the Tigers, only for Midway’s No. 5 Camden Wilson to answer immediately. Free throws played a role as No. 2 Zamarion Smith and No. 12 Kentrell Morrisey helped keep the Tigers even at 10–10. A technical foul on the Raiders allowed No. 3 Jeremiah Hall to convert at the line, and James Kenan began to gain momentum.
Late in the quarter, No. 1 Eli Avent caught fire from beyond the arc, knocking down multiple three-pointers. Despite Midway’s No. 10 Ace Matthews sinking two free throws, a buzzer beating three by No. 2 Zamarion Smith capped a strong quarter for the Tigers. End of 1st Quarter Tigers take the early lead.
Second Quarter: Tigers Take Control
James Kenan struck first in the second quarter with another basket from No. 2 Zamarion Smith, followed by a steal and score by No. 3 Jeremiah Hall. After a Midway timeout, the Tigers continued to push the pace.
A huge three-pointer by No. 2 Zamarion Smith at the 4:37 mark gave the Tigers a commanding 13 point lead. Although Midway worked to cut the deficit with baskets and free throws from No. 4 Tanner Williams and No. 11 Colin Woods the Tigers answered consistently. A tough and one layup by No. 2 Zamarion Smith and another deep three from No. 1 Eli Avent kept the pressure on the Raiders.
Halftime Score: James Kenan Tigers 40, Midway Raiders 28
Halftime Recap
James Kenan led by 12 points at the break, fueled by a fast paced offensive system under Coach Jones. The Tigers were effective from long range with No. 2 Zamarion Smith leading the way with 13 points and No. 1 Eli Avent close behind with 12 points with all coming from three-point shots.
Midway stayed competitive behind No. 11 Colin Woods, who had 12 points but the Raiders struggled to slow the Tigers’ offensive rhythm. Both teams are prepared to come out strong in the second half.
Third Quarter: Tigers Maintain Momentum
Midway opened the third quarter with the first basket, but James Kenan quickly responded with a layup. The Raiders’ No. 11 Colin Woods converted an and one opportunity yet the Tigers countered with a big three from No. 3 Jeremiah Hall.
The physical play continued as free throws and tough finishes defined the quarter. A strong layup by No. 4 CJ Hill and another basket by No. 1 Eli Avent extended the Tigers’ lead. Despite Midway converting at the line James Kenan controlled the pace and tempo. End of 3rd Quarter Tigers firmly in control
Fourth Quarter: Tigers Close It Out
James Kenan wasted no time in the final quarter opening with a layup by No. 2 Zamarion Smith. Midway answered with a basket from No. 4 Tanner Williams, but the Tigers stayed relentless. Free throws from No. 12 Kentrell Morrisey, a strong rebound and put-back by No. 4 CJ Hill, and another deep three from No. 2 Zamarion Smith pushed the lead further out.
A key steal and layup by No. 12 Kentrell Morrisey highlighted the Tigers’ defensive effort. Even after Midway earned trips to the free-throw line, James Kenan remained composed and closed out the game with confidence.
Final Score: James Kenan Tigers 67, Midway Raiders 46
