Basketball Recap: Lincoln County Takes a Loss

Lincoln County and Wayne squared off in some playoff action on Friday, but Lincoln County had to settle for second. They took a 74-58 bruising from the Wayne Pioneers. The Panthers' loss continues a trend for the squad, making it six in a row.

Eli Smith

Points

03/07/25 vs Wayne	30
02/28/25 vs Wayne	13
02/27/25 vs Sissonville	23
02/25/25 @ Scott	24
02/22/25 vs Tolsia	23
+ 11 more games

Despite the loss, Lincoln County still got an impressive performance from Eli Smith, who went 13-for-27 to rack up 30 points along with seven rebounds and six steals. That's the most points Smith has posted since back in December of 2024. The team also got some help courtesy of Dakota Wood, who shot 56% from the field on his way to 10 points and six boards.

Wayne got their victory on the backs of several key players, but it was Colton Preece out in front who went 6-for-9 en route to 17 points and eight rebounds. Ronnie Staley was another key player, shooting 46% from the field to rack up 18 points in addition to six boards and three steals.

Lincoln County's defeat dropped their record down to 2-20. As for Wayne, the win (which was their third in a row) raised their record to 17-6.

Lincoln County does not have any more games scheduled as of now. As for Wayne, they are taking a road trip to take on Chapmanville Regional at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday. One thing working in Chapmanville Regional's favor is that they have posted at least 55 points in their last three contests.