The Raiders set the tone early against State Fair, racing out to a huge lead in and eventually cruised to a 67-49 victory. The victory complemented a strong effort on Jan. 10 in which the Raiders entered enemy territory and turned that contest into a rout as well.
Sophomore guard Matt Hampton filled up the stat sheet, posting 12 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists. His teammate Tristan Fleming put up 11 points, while Drew Ward and Davin Francis each finished with nine points.
The Raiders started the game hot offensively, nailing four three-pointers and getting numerous points off turnovers to frustrate the Roadrunners early and often.
"Our defense set the tone for our offense tonight, and we got a lot of deflections and steals because of how aggressive we were on that end," Ward said. "I am glad we were able to get the win."
While the Raiders shot 48 percent overall in the first half and 40 percent from three-point range, the Roadrunners weren't able to have the same success. They connected on just 21 percent of their first half attempts, a large factor in the Raiders seizing a 20-point advantage entering the second half.
Despite outscoring the Raiders by two in the second half, the Raiders ballooned their advantage into the high 20s before resting key players due to their large lead.
Despite the big win, Ward's focused on getting better every day and learning from veteran players such as Hampton.
"Matt is a really good player, he went through the growing pains last year and I am doing the same thing this year," the freshman said. "I am just continuing to work hard by making sure I perform at my best to impact the team positively."
The Raiders are next in action on Saturday afternoon, as they journey to Mineral Area.
Liaudwin Seaberry Jr. - Daily American Republic
