Only leading by two entering the third quarter and needing a spark, Apollo head coach Ryne Tinsley subbed in Eli Williams. Regardless of what was asked of him, the sophomore guard delivered. He hit a clutch three, drew a defensive charge, and executed a flashy behind-the-back pass for an assist. What was a razor-thin margin, quickly blossomed into a 66-40 win over Allen County-Scottsville.
Finishing with five points, the second-half hero was named the game MVP.
“He did a lot for us last year and grew over the last 10 games of last season as a freshman,” Tinsley said. “He plays football and has been out, but has been getting back into the swing of things. I believe he is starting to figure it out.”
The Eagles fell behind early in the first half, before clawing back to take a 21-19 lead entering halftime. In the third quarter with Williams running the show, everything began to click for the offense, outscoring the Lakers 21-9.
In the final frame, Kobe Kelly exploded, scoring eight of his team-high 17 points, including two threes. Regardless of what adjustments Allen County attempted to make, Apollo would find a way to exploit it. Landon Henning became an issue in the paint, throwing down multiple dunks, allowing for the outside shooting to open up.
After a short rest, Apollo retook the court for the second game of their double-header in the Eagles Classic – this time against Webster County. Kelly had another high-scoring game, this time going off for 20 points, 10 of which came in the third quarter. Tate Powers hit two threes to go along with his 12 points, while Jarboe and Henning each added eight points.
“I am proud of the resiliency of the group,” Tinsley said. “We took a tough loss last night and Allen County played us tough for a half. We responded the next six quarters to win by more than 60 points combined. I love the growth and fight of these kids. This is a group that does not care who has individual success. It is special.”
Next up for the Eagles, they will take on Trigg County at 2 pm Thursday as part of the Rafferty’s/Double Dogs Caveland Classic.
