By Jeff Devine, Editor-in-Chief, Dale County Chronicle.
It was the battle of the cats in high school basketball Friday night as the Ariton High School Purple Cats used a strong defensive effort and balanced scoring to earn a 51–39 victory over the Geneva High School Panthers.
Ariton set the tone early, holding Geneva to just four points in the first quarter and 11 points total in the first half. The defensive intensity helped the Purple Cats build a comfortable lead and maintain control throughout the contest.
“The Purple Cats had a great defensive performance holding Geneva to 4 points in the first quarter & 11 total points in the first half,” said Ariton head coach Brett Goodwin. “The Cats were led with a strong performance by junior Cooper Murphy & balanced scoring from the rest of the team.”
Bryson Rhett led Ariton with 13 points and seven rebounds, while Murphy posted a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds. Easton Kilpatrick dominated the glass with eight points and a game-high 14 rebounds, and Addison Senn added nine points to round out the Purple Cats’ offensive effort.
Meanwhile, Hunter Thompson led the pace for Geneva High, earning 14 points for the Panthers, while Braylon Sales chipped in eight. Despite the Panthers’ efforts, Ariton’s defensive pressure and rebounding advantage proved too much to overcome.
The win showcases Ariton’s defensive discipline and depth as the Purple Cats continue their push through the heart of the season. Ariton now moves to 11-2 for the season as they prepare to take on Barbour County on Tuesday, January 6.
