WILLIAMSBURG — Whitley County’s unbeaten start came to an end Tuesday night, as the Colonels battled back from a double-digit deficit but ultimately fell just short in a 68-65 loss to Boyle County.
The defeat drops Whitley County to 2-1.
The Rebels set the tone early, jumping ahead 16-7 after the first quarter before taking a 34-24 lead into halftime. Whitley County slowly chipped away in the second half, pulling within seven at 53-46 entering the fourth quarter.
The Colonels continued to close the gap late and fought to give themselves a chance in the final seconds, but Boyle County managed to hold on.
Riley Fuson led Whitley County with a strong 22-point effort, while Henry Bowling added 17 points. Tootie Mahan scored 13, and Levi Jackson contributed 12, giving the Colonels four players in double figures.
Whitley County coach Eric Swords said the early offensive struggles were difficult to overcome.
“Tough one for us tonight,” he said. “We struggled finding a rhythm early in the game. Give Boyle County credit for that, they got a good team. I thought our kids battled to give us a chance on the final possession even though we shot 33 percent from the field and 4-of-27 from 3. Great crowd and environment, we will regroup and be back at it on Friday at home.”
