Connersville

On Monday night, the Connersville Freshman Boys Basketball team opened up against the Greensburg Pirates at home. The nerves were apparent as the young Spartans got off to a shaky start, trailing 7-1 after the first period. In the second, a scoring outburst from Justin Kitchen and Eli Smith got the offense into rhythm, taking a 12-11 lead at the break. After a few adjustments, the Spartans were able to turn up the intensity defensively and cause problems for the Pirates' offense. Greensburg was held without a field goal in the third period and managed just five points in the second half. The Freshman would go on to outscore the Pirates 21-5 during this time, taking the 33-16 victory. For the Spartans, Eli Smith paced the way with 12 points, 2 steals, and a few critical offensive rebounds. Justin Kitchen followed with 8 points and 6 rebounds, while LJ Ellis recorded 8 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 steals. Andrew Miracle provided key minutes off the bench, recording 4 points and two steals. Carson Moore added 1 point, as well as 4 rebounds and a steal. Zane Ellison was a defensive spark for the team, tallying 5 steals, to go along with 4 assists on the other side of the ball. Kayson Mckinney contributed 6 rebounds, 2 steals, as well as stellar defense. Gavin Mullins and Gavin Schneider both added valuable minutes off the bench, recording several rebounds and steals. The Freshman will be in action next Monday, Dec.1 st, against Lawrenceburg.