by JASON GORDON
After Hays High boys basketball team jumped out to a commanding lead at Clemens Friday night, it looked like the Rebels might be able to put things on cruise control.
Leading 18-7 after the first eight minutes, thanks in part to six early points each from Hayden Cagle and Caleb Kimbro, the game appeared to be headed for blowout city.
That’s before the Buffaloes came storming back, thanks in part to the fact Hays got in foul trouble and had to sit several key players in the second quarter, and before the Rebels knew it they led only 26-24 going into intermission.
Hays was able to overcome the adversity, however, and come back for a 56-50 win to improve to 2-1 in District 27-4A play.
Isaiah Williams was a major factor in the third quarter, scoring nine points and helping Hays pull back ahead 41-34 heading to the final period.
“Isaiah took the game over in the third quarter,” Hays head coach Dean McMullen said. “He attacked the basket and was playing really well on both sides of the court. He had been out four games with an injury and this was the first game he’s really back to full strength where his confidence level is up.”
Cagle made several solid moves in deep post for baskets and Kimbro made all four of his free throw attempts in the fourth quarter to help Hays close out the game.
Williams and Cagle finished with 15 points apiece, while Kimbro added 10 to lead the Rebs.
“We have been playing very well together as a team,” Kimbro said. “Now it’s important to practice well during the week so we can keep improving.”
Cagle agreed with his teammate.
“We just executed what coach drew up for us and when we do that we win,” Cagle said. “I think if we continue to do those same things in practice and in games we have a great chance to finish in the top three in district this season and make the playoffs.”
After an open night Friday, Hays will be back in action Tuesday, January 17, at New Braunfels Canyon. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
