The Aiken Falcons entered their tilt with the East Central Trojans with five consecutive wins but they'll enter their next game with six. Aiken skirted past the Trojans 64-61. Given Aiken's advantage in MaxPreps's basketball rankings in their respective home states (they are ranked 67th in Ohio, while the Trojans are ranked 211th in Indiana), the result on Saturday wasn't entirely unexpected.
Aiken's victory was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Jaiden Arnold, who dropped a double-double on 18 points and ten assists. The team also got some help courtesy of Tayvon Smith, who scored 16 points along with six rebounds.
East Central's loss came despite a true team effort from the offense, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Joel Richter, who scored 21 points. As a matter of fact, that's the most points Richter has scored all season. Another player making a difference was Peyton Hofer, who scored 14 points.
Aiken's victory bumped their record up to 12-4. As for East Central, their loss was their fourth straight on the road, which dropped their record down to 8-10.
Aiken will take on the Bearcats at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Walton-Verona is coming into the matchup on a three-game losing streak. As for East Central, they will look to defend their home court on Tuesday against the Rams at 7:30 p.m.
