Loyd Star outshot Region 7-2A rival Enterprise throughout Friday’s game, running through the Jackets to win by a final score of 67-27.

Turnovers plagued Enterprise all game. The Hornets took advantage and converted them into points, shooting hot in each period.

“We had a good second half,” Loyd Star junior forward Dane Smith said. “Right now, we’re starting to come together and play as a team a little bit more. We’re figuring out how to work with each other a little bit better.”

Ties and lead changes started off the game. With time running out in the first period, Loyd Star managed to get the upper hand, taking a 19-12 lead to the second quarter.

Enterprise attempted to chip away at the Hornets’ lead in the second period, but Loyd Star’s defense was able to cause turnover after turnover and convert them into points, adding onto their lead. Loyd Star led 35-21 heading to halftime.

Despite causing more turnovers to begin the second half, it wasn’t until two minutes had passed in the third period that the Hornets were able to find the net and grow their lead.

Loyd Star’s defense continued to cause the Jackets problems throughout the third period, as the Hornets led 51-25 after three quarters.

The Hornets limited Enterprise to just two points in the final period. Halfway through the game, the young Hornets entered and managed to create more turnovers, as Loyd Star ran through the Jackets, winning by a final score of 67-27.

“I thought the boys played well tonight,” Hornets coach Gene Britt said.

“Loyd Star has some athletic kids. Dane Smith is a really good shooter,” Enterprise coach Shane Adams said.

Loyd Star had three players shoot in double digits. Junior forward Dane Smith led the Hornets with 16 points, eight rebounds, five assists and two steals. Junior guard Jett Calcote netted 14 points, one rebound, one assist and five steals. Junior forward Zabian Price hit 11 points, six rebounds, four assists and two steals. Senior forward Titus Sims made eight points, five rebounds, one assist and two steals.

Junior Micah Calcote hit six points and three assists. Senior forward Patrick Price shot four points, two rebounds. Junior Shooting guard Clay Smith and Junior center Gabe Netterville, one rebound and each hit three points. Sophomore forward Roberto Galindo finished with two points and one assist. Sophomore point guard Stephen Mills had two assists and one steal. Sophomore guard Reese DeHart had one steal. Freshman Lawson Smith also had one steal.

Enterprise had two players make it to double digits. Junior Jalon Grinstead led the Jackets with 11 points and two rebounds. Senior Cade Feltus hit 10 points and four rebounds. Freshman Dylan Carter made three points and four rebounds. Sophomore Dylan Vaughn shot two points and got one rebound. Junior Austin Burns finished the night with one point. Senior Ryan Amic had eight rebounds. Eighth grader Trey Baker had one rebound. Freshman Anthony Nations had one rebound and one steal. Junior Peytin Jergins had five assists and two steals. 

Weather permitting, Loyd Star will be in action tonight against West Marion in a non-region matchup.

Enterprise will also be in action tonight as they take on Region 7-2A foe West Lincoln.

Story by Dave Linton