Second half audio plus post game interview with Justin Thompson.
GUILFORD– Christopher King sparked a 10-0 run in the fourth quarter, to help the Schenck Wolverines boys basketball team come back from a 12 point (26-14) halftime deficit, and a five point (40-35) deficit with 6:30 remaining to earn a season opening 50-45 victory over Piscataquis community high school (PCHS) on Saturday afternoon.
The Pirates went on a 12-2 run in the first quarter, after Schenck scored the first three points. Bryce Gilbert scored eight points in the first half to lift PCHS to the 12 point halftime lead. The Wolverines were hampered by poor foul shooting and foul trouble in the first half. Schenck shot 4-14 from the free throw line in the first 16 minutes, and junior leader Justin Thompson went to the bench with his third foul with around two minutes left in the half.
Wolverines coach Darrick Thompson wasn’t sure if King would be able to play in the season opener. King sprained his ankle during practice on Friday. When King did get on the court, he made an immediate impact.
King entered the game in the second half, and scored six third quarter points as Schenck cut the deficit to 35-33 heading into the fourth quarter.
“He (King)has been our go to or second go to in preseason,”Justin Thompson said. “With him on the floor, we are a much better team.”
Ben Morrill nailed a three pointer to give the Pirates a 40-35 lead with 6:30 remaining. King scored eight points, as the Wolverines scored the next 10 points to take control of the game. Justin Thompson sealed the win by going 4-6 down the stretch from the free throw line.
Justin Thompson recorded 18 points, 14 rebounds, and three assists, while younger brother freshman Travis Thompson added 12 points. King finished with 14 points (all in the second half) for the Wolverines. Schenck (1-0) will play at Lee Academy on Tuesday.
Morrill and Gilbert led the Pirates with 11 points each, while Damyan True put in 10 points, and Cameron Kane added nine points. PCHS (0-1) will play at George Stevens on Tuesday night.
