The second quarter was the deciding factor in the Hays High Indians opening round win over Manhattan when they allowed just two points gaining separation by half time.  The second quarter was again the deciding factor for Hays on Friday, but not in the way they would have liked.

Hays led the second ranked team in 5A, Wichita Heights, 17-16 after one quarter.  The Indians buried five first quarter three pointers.  Four of those came from Cole Murphy.  The second quarter was all Heights.  The Falcons outscored the Indians 23-6 on a 8-0 run and a 10-2 run to take a 39-23 halftime lead.

Highlights

 

Heights pushed the lead as high as thirty in third quarter after a 14-0 run.  The Indians closed the gap to twenty-three late in third quarter and had two open looks at three pointers but could not connect.  Hays closed the gap down to 20 when they opened the fourth quarter on a three pointer, but could not get any closer falling 76-51.

Cole Murphy led the Indians with 20 which included six three pointers.  Peyton Kieffer grabbed his second double-double of the season with ten points and eleven rebounds.  Ethan Nunnery assisted on nine made baskets.

Coach Rick Keltner

 

Hays falls to 8-3 on the season and will play in the third place game Saturday at 3:00.  Wichita Heights moves to the championship game at 5:00 and improves to 10-1 on the year.