The Maranatha Mustangs defeated the Cono Warriors JV, 60-30 in a game which was lopsided from the beginning. Maranatha jumped off to an early lead and was ahead 27-13 at half-time. The Mustangs were led by point guard John Ellis who repeatedly penetrated the Warrior defense driving his way to 23 points. Maranatha’s defense was dominant, stealing the ball 24 times and blocking seven shots. Maranatha coach Nick Nickerson, commenting on the steals, said, “These boys played basketball like the James gang.” He added, “Our stats were very good in this game. My only concern was that we missed 17 free throws. We need to work on that.” Nickerson substituted liberally from the bench, with all 14 players who suited up for the game seeing action.
Leading scorers for Maranatha were John Ellis with 23 points, Ian Nichols with 12, Sam Long with six, and Joe Long and Steven Wilson with five each. Leading rebounders were Sam Long with seven, Matt Bruce and Alex Sloter with five each, and Brandon Windus, John Ellis, Ian Nichols, and Kyle Younkin with four apiece.
The Mustangs will be competing in the Hardin County Tournament in New Providence on March 1. The next action for Maranatha will be against the Des Moines Warriors on February 22.
Maranatha’s Matt Bruce launches a three-point shot in the Mustangs win over
Cono Christian.
Joe Long drives in for two against Cono Christian.
John Ellis drives and Ian Nichols scores.
John Ellis scores two of his 23 points.