By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
ARITON–The Ariton Purple Cats found their rhythm and never let go Friday night, pulling away from the Pike Liberal Arts Patriots for an 84–68 home victory that showed just how dangerous this group can be when the offense is clicking.
Addison Senn led the charge with a smooth 24-point performance, scoring at all three levels and setting the tone early. Bryson Rhett added 14 points, and Titus Senn chipped in 13, giving Ariton steady production across the lineup.
The biggest lift came from Cooper Murphy, whose 11 points and 14 rebounds gave the Cats a physical presence inside that Pike Lib struggled to match. Murphy’s work on the glass created second-chance opportunities and helped Ariton control long stretches of the game.
The Patriots kept things close behind 17 points each from Baggett and Deboer, while Bowen added 12, but Ariton’s depth and pace eventually wore them down. A late third-quarter run pushed the Purple Cats out in front for good, and they closed the door with confidence shooting down the stretch.
Ariton’s win over Pike Lib was more than just a solid final score; it was the kind of performance that can help a team settle into who they are, building confidence that will aid them in the games to come. With multiple players contributing and the energy picking up on both ends of the floor, the Purple Cats walked off the court looking like a group ready for anything.
On Monday, December 8, Ariton will host their school system rival Dale County High School.
