Adams Highlanders start the new year with a win over Troy Athens 45 - 35.  

Adams dominated the first quarter on the defensive end of the court with tough man to man  full court pressure and held Athens scoreless until 20 seconds left in the quarter. The Highlanders were deliberate and efficient on the offensive end. The second quarter was a bit sluggish offensively while Adams tried to figure out the Athens ½ court zone defense. Athens stepped up the physical play to try and match the Highlanders aggressiveness. Matt Niemiec was very active on both ends and scored 7 of his game high 12 points in the first half.

The second half started much like the first quarter where Adams go off to a quick start with a 10 – 0 run and held Athens to just 4 points in the quarter. Justin Dawson who sat out much of the first half with foul trouble was able to penetrate the Athens zone defense and get the Adams offense attacking.  Jake Heinrich came off the bench to give Adams a spark with his aggressive play on defense and offense. The pace of the game picked up in the fourth quarter and produced the most points for both teams. Athens made a couple of runs in the last period, but the Highlanders kept their composure and finished off the game with a ten point victory. This was a good solid team effort.

High point scorers for Adams :

Matt Niemiec               12
Justin Dawson              7
Jake Heinrich                7

      Adams              Troy Athens
1^st  Qrtr            12                                2
Half                  18                                10
3^rd Qrtr             30                                14
Final                 45                                35

Adams next game is Monday night at home against Troy High.