STAFF REPORT
Photos by Tara Riehm
#11 Jay County could not pull away from Bellmont on the Braves’ senior night, but they shot the ball just well enough to outscore their hosts in each of the four quarters on their way to a 20th victory this season, 63-55.
First-year head coach Tyler Rigby has won 19 of his team’s last 20 games against opponents from Indiana.
Gradin Swoveland provided the size down low and Chris Comer the finesse for the visitors, with 19 and 18 points, respectively.
The Braves started their seniors Jack Johnson, Jake Hackman and Beau Baker on senior night.
The home team struggled to create open looks for anybody but Cameron Summers and Daniel Selking. The two leading scorers for the Braves accounted for 20 of the team’s 25 points in the first half, which ended with Jay County holding a 31-25 advantage.
Senior Ellie Schirack was crowned Silver Arrow Queen at halftime.
The Braves spent plenty of time at the free throw line in the third quarter, but only managed three made shots, while the Patriots spread the ball around to six different scorers as they lengthened their advantage to seven points.
Bellmont stayed in the game in the fourth quarter, but any hope of a late comeback for the Braves faded when Daniel Selking fouled out of the contest after a 17-point night.
Cameron Summers led the Braves with 23 points, including a 10 of 13 night at the line.
The Braves will have a week to get ready for their sectional semifinal game, where they will take on the winner of Mississinewa and New Haven on Friday at the Bellmont 3A sectional.
Bellmont Scoring: C. Summers 23, Selking 17, B. Baker 7, Schultz 3, E. Baker 3, I. Baker 2
Jay County Scoring: Swoveland 19, Comer 18, Forthofer 8, Sommers 6, Overton 5, Wasson 4, Barnett 3
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