Valley Center, KS — On Tuesday, December 17, the Valley Center Hornets faced the visiting Maize South Mavericks in a back-and-forth thriller, ultimately prevailing 55-54 thanks to a game-winning three-pointer as time expired.
The Hornets started strong, taking a 19-13 lead at the end of the first quarter. They extended their advantage to eight points early in the second, but a late run by the Mavericks trimmed the lead to 30-25 by halftime. In the third quarter, Maize South surged ahead, outscoring Valley Center 15-8 to take a narrow lead into the final period.
The fourth quarter featured high drama, with both teams trading blows. With just 15 seconds remaining, the Mavericks held a two-point lead. Austin Saner drove into the paint, dishing the ball to Corben Burgess, who found Colby Newton for a clutch three-pointer that put Valley Center on top as the buzzer sounded.
This victory highlighted the Hornets’ poise under pressure and their ability to execute in crucial moments. The win improves the Hornet to 3-0 on the year as well as 1-0 in league play.
Hornet Stats:
Austin Saner: 17 points, 2 steals, 4 rebounds, 2 assists
Colby Newton: 13 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist
RayJ Logan: 7 points, 2 assists
Evan Chavez: 9 points, 3 assists, 3 rebounds, 1 block
Bryson Saner: 6 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals
Corben Burgess: 4 points, 3 rebounds, 3 steals, 3 blocks
Nash Jamolod: 1 rebound, 1 steal, 1 assist
Preston Looney: 2 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists