The Marion Bulldogs waltzed into their match on Friday with six straight wins but they left with seven. They were the clear victor by a 66-46 margin over Nixon-Smiley. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest win Marion has posted against Nixon-Smiley since December 28, 2019.
Marion's victory was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Richard Rayos, who scored 17 points along with six assists and three steals. The team also got some help courtesy of Braeden Fleming, who scored 21 points along with three steals.
Marion's victory bumped their record up to 16-5. As for Nixon-Smiley, their defeat dropped their record down to 12-10.
Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Marion will take on Great Hearts Northern Oaks at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Great Hearts Northern Oaks is also coming in off of a big victory, so somebody is in for a big reversal of fortune. As for Nixon-Smiley, they will be playing in front of their home fans against Cole at 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Cole knows how to get points on the board -- the squad has finished with flashy point totals in its past ten contests -- so hopefully Nixon-Smiley likes a good challenge.
