NEW MARKET — The Southmont boys basketball team could not keep up with high-scoring Parke Heritage on Saturday. The Wolves used a 16-2 run right before halftime to win 85-58.
Southmont Coach Michael Byrum knew his squad was under the gun. His team was playing without injured senior point guard Evan Watson and another starter was battling illness. Early in the second quarter starting post player 6’6” junior Austin Foley went down with what appeared to be an ankle injury.
The hurdles were too much to overcome.
“We have to do a better job at facing adversity,” Byrum said.
Despite the loss Byrum said his team can use the experience to learn and prepare for the upcoming tournament in March.
“Adversity is OK because that is what is going to make us grow,” Byrum said.
The Mounties found themselves behind after one quarter 18-11. The Wolves connected on seven of their first quarter shots including going 3-of-4 behind the arch.
Parke Heritage extended their lead to 39-22 as the teams went to the locker rooms at the half.
Despite falling further behind as the game progressed, the Mounties did not back down. Byrum said that is a trait for his team.
“We are always going to fight,” Byrum said. “We are a good team, and we will learn from this, and it will help us down the road.”
The Mounties were led by senior Vince Reimondo’s 20 points. Senior Aaron McMasters scored 14 points and sophomore Dean McGaughey and freshman Caden Miller each contributed 10 points apiece.
Parke Heritage, playing without their point guard senior Renn Harper, was led by sophomore Carter Crum’s 22 points. Junior Treigh Schelsky added 19 points and senior Braden Luce scored 18. Isaac Pickle, the 6’8” junior, scored 12 points including two dunks.
Southmont (10-6) will travel to South Vermillion on Feb. 11. Parke Heritage (16-4) will host Fountain Central (4-13) on Feb. 14.
