Warriors Push Hoover To The Brink

The Warriors varsity basketball team put a scare in the no. 1 team in area play, Hoover this past Tuesday, Jan 22. The top 10 ranked Bucs trailed Thompson through three quarters, but ultimately was able to rally and pull out a 58-53 win. Hoover is the likely host of the area basketball tournament that takes place next month.

Down 8-2 in the first quarter, the Warriors were able to turn the defensive pressure up at home. The boys were aggressive in the passing lanes and snagged several turnovers in the halfcourt keying fast break opportunities. Grant Hopkins led the way in the first quarter slashing to the hoop for several baskets in the quarter.

All in all, Thompson went on a 12-4 run to close the quarter and took a 14-12 lead into the second period.

The first half momentum continued its swing towards the Warriors as they took their defense to another level allowing only two more baskets before halftime. Hoover sought to reignite their shooting attack from long range, but Thompson did a great job contesting shots on the outside and altering others when opponents drove the middle. The result was an impressive 27-17 halftime lead.

The Warriors continued to find ways to score in the third quarter as their balanced offensive effort continued all night. Hoover was able to find their rhythm at the free throw line where they took 21 attempts in the second half. Thompson led at the end of three quarters despite Hoover scoring more in the third quarter than they had the entire second half.

Hoover let loose a barrage in the fourth quarter, but the Warriors kept it close til the very end. Hopkins led Thompson with ten points, but four other players score seven points or more on the night including Brad Lewis and Jack Dorolek with seven each. JB Mitchell and Tre Roberson were instrumental as well scoring eight and nine points, respectively.

The Warriors (18-8) next matchup against the Oak Mountain Eagles will be their last in area play before the postseason. Tip-off is set for Friday, Jan 28 at 7:30 p.m.