After consecutive seasons with just one victory, the Heritage Patriots, under the direction of new head coach Jason Miller, posted their second victory of this year’s campaign with a close, 37-31 victory over Hamilton in the home opener of the 2025-26 season.
A late run by the Marines, coupled with a poor night at the line for the Patriots, nearly brought the game back to level terms, but the home Heritage girls only trailed in the opening minute of the game, then never relinquished it after taking the lead with their opening bucket.
WZBD’s Ed Thurman wraps up the broadcast of Heritage’s victory over Hamilton on 92.7 FM.Kierstyn Hess scored seven of her nine points in the second half to help the Patriots capture their second victory in a row. (Photo by Grace Scheumann)
The Patriots finished 7 of 20 from the line.
Proud to sponsor Heritage Athletics on WZBD.com!Elise Hissong goes up for two points against Hamilton Monday night. (Photo by Grace Scheumann)
Olivia Lybarger led the team with 10 points and freshman Kierstyn Hess had nine.
Proudly supporting local athletes and their coverage on WZBD.com!Coach Jason Miller speaks with WZBD’s Ed Thurman after the victory.
Still adjusting their defense to add more pressure on the ball, coach Miller admitted that his team suffered from a continued lack of conditioning and some injuries, but overall, he praised the team and their efforts.
The Patriots get aggressive early on defense.
The Patriots jump right back into action Tuesday with another home game against Wayne.
Olivia Lybarger completes the steal and the layup for the Patriots. (Photo by Grace Scheumann)
Dane Fuelling has been passionate about high school sports since childhood. Coming to WZBD via his previous position as sports editor at the Decatur Daily Democrat, Dane is highly involved in high school wrestling with the IHSWCA and is a past winner of the organization's Distinguished Media Award.