By Anthony Gorges
JC Post
Girls Recap
The Junction City Lady Jays were defeated by the Olathe East Hawks 60-41 on Thursday night in a make-up game at Junction City High School.
Despite their best first quarter of the season, and leading for most of the opening quarter, the Lady Jays were unable to knock off Olathe East. Turnovers once again haunted the Lady Jays as they turned the ball over nearly 30 times.
Seniors Amyah O'Neal led the way with 18 points, and fellow senior Sara Rexrode added 12 points. The two seniors combined for 30 of the teams 41 total points.
With the loss, the Lady Jays drop to 1-11 on the season. Their next action is Tuesday, Jan. 30, at Topeka Hayden in another make-up game.
Boys recap
The Junction City Blue Jays have a knack for playing in close games this season. The Blue Jays defeated the Emporia Spartans 46-41 in another thrilling game. Junction City led for most of the game, and even held a 10-point lead in the fourth quarter.
The Blue Jays were once again led in scoring by junior Larking Turner, who finished with a game high 13 points. Junior Jackson Austin, normally a sharp shooter, only had one three point make tonight, but hit six straight free throws to extend the lead for Junction City and help secure the victory. Ja'Twaan Williams added eight points for the Blue Jays, and both Lovell Autry and Tre Ruffin both scored seven points.
With the victory, the Blue Jays improve to 11-2 on the season, their best start under head coach Nick Perez. Junction City will now host the defending 6A state champion Blue Valley Northwest on Tuesday, Jan. 30, at Blue Jay Event Center.