The James River boys basketball team will be in Waynesboro Friday for the final game of the year, taking on the host Little Giants.
River split two games last week before taking off for Christmas. The Knights beat Liberty in Springwood, 47-44, then dropped a game to Bath County in Hot Springs, 60-46.
Against Liberty the Knights trailed 24-20 at the half but outscored the Minutemen 12-6 in the third quarter to grab the lead. Trey Taylor led River with 23 points, eight rebounds and four steals while Josiah Clark had nine points and six boards.
“Liberty was a big team win for us,” said coach Ethan Humphries. “We had several guys answer the bell and we were able to close out a game, which we’ve struggled to do so far this season. We tell the guys routinely that we’ll continue to get the same test until we pass it and sure enough we got that same test versus Liberty.”
Photos by Leigh Downey
At Bath County Taylor had 20 points, seven steals and five rebounds. Matthew Alderson led the Knights with 11 rebounds and he also scored 14 points.
“Trey has been stepping up big for us,” said Humphries. “He busted his ankle up Tuesday against Liberty and I was just glad he not only finished that game out but also suited up Thursday. I think Matthew and him, being seniors, are understanding the magnitude of every game. My wishful Christmas present would be for him to get healthy heading into Waynesboro.”
Next week the Knights will open the new year with a Three Rivers District game at home against Floyd County on January 2.
