Wildcats Drop Season Opener To Thomas Nelson

The Wildcats make their first trip up the court in the 2018-19 season opener.

Three Wildcats In Double Figures, Wilson Impresses With Double-Double

Darren Doyle, story: Madison Doyle, photos:
Turnovers overshadowed a solid effort by the Wildcats against the Thomas Nelson Generals at ECHS last night in the 2018-19 season opener, as Edmonson County fell 90-81.

Three Wildcats landed in double figures, with two of them at 20 points or higher, and one with a double-double.

Sophomore Chaz Wilson led Edmonson County with a career-high 24 points and 13 rebounds, followed by junior Dalton Decker's 20 points and 8 assists.

Sophomore Chaz Wilson goes for 2 of his 24 points against Thomas Nelson.

Edmonson County got off to a great start and took the lead early, but dribble penetration from the Generals caused the Wildcats some trouble in the second quarter. Thomas Nelson put together a 12-2 run that gave them the lead for good as they took a 48-46 advantage into the locker room at the half.

In addition to Wilson and Decker, EC had plenty of positive offensive performances as multiple Wildcats put points on the board. Junior Mason Pierce added 15 points, junior Eli Booker added 9, junior Nick Clemmons added 6, and senior Griffin Spainhoward also added 6. Jon Smith also had one point.

Edmonson County crashed the boards hard, which allowed them to win the rebound battle, but in the end, it would be the turnovers (27 of them) and lackluster free throw shooting (18/30 for 60%) that would be the difference. 

Junior Dalton Decker attempts a layup against Thomas Nelson. Decker finished with 24pts and 8 assists.

"We had things going our way until midway through the second quarter," said Head Coach Mike McClintic, better known as 'Coach Mac.' "But you can't turn the ball over like we did. When you do that, you're giving up layups--easy buckets. But you know, there were some positives. We didn't give up. Decker's got 8 assists. Wilson's got 13 rebounds, and he was in foul trouble. But we have to take better care of the ball. Until we do that, we're going to have problems."

Coach Mac said there was plenty to discuss before tonight's game on the road at Breckinridge County, who is ranked number one in Region 3, but he also said he knew there's much more basketball to play. 

The Lady Cats will join the Wildcats tonight in a girl/boy doubleheader with girls' action beginning at 6pm. A live video stream for both games will be available on the Edmonson Voice Facebook Page and later on the website.