Basketball Recap: Leyton Connell Key Part of a Team Effort in Mavericks Win

Sandhills Valley hadn't done well against Sumner-Eddyville-Miller recently (they were 0-4 in their previous four matchups), but they didn't let the past get in their way on Monday. The Sandhills Valley Mavericks secured a 40-35 W over the Sumner-Eddyville-Miller Mustangs. For the Mavericks, this counts as revenge for the 39-25 victory the Mustangs walked away with the last time they faced one another back in December of 2023.

Sandhills Valley's success was the result of a balanced attack that saw several players step up, but Leyton Connell led the charge by putting up 12 points and six steals. The dominant performance gave Connell a new career-high in steals. Another player making a difference was Kyle Kramer, who posted four points in addition to 15 boards and four blocks.

When it comes to explaining why Sumner-Eddyville-Miller lost, don't look at Chance Daake. Despite the final result, he went 8 of 20 on his way to 20 points and five rebounds. Daake is also crushing it when it comes to steals: he's grabbed at least two every time he's taken the court this season. Another player making a difference was Jayce Boteo-Mazariegos, who had seven points and five rebounds.

The win made it two in a row for Sandhills Valley and bumps their season record up to 2-0. As for Sumner-Eddyville-Miller, their defeat was their first of the season and makes their record 2-1.

Sandhills Valley will challenge Sutherland at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday. As for Sumner-Eddyville-Miller, they will host Elm Creek at 7:30 p.m. on Friday.