The Crystal River Pirates lost against the Hernando Leopards back in December of 2023, and unfortunately they wound up with the same result on Friday. Crystal River took a 54-44 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Leopards. The defeat unfortunately continues a disappointing trend for Crystal River in their matchups with the Leopards: they've now lost three in a row.
Crystal River's loss came despite strong showings from Zachary Hamilton and Ej Jenkins. Hamilton scored 14 points along with seven rebounds and seven steals, while Jenkins scored 20 points along with seven rebounds and two steals. Hamilton hasn't dropped below two steals for six straight games. Another player making a difference was Riley Helmdach, who scored six points along with two steals.
Hernando's win was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Josiah Wright, who scored 13 points along with three steals. Daniel Merizalde was another key contributor, scoring 12 points along with two steals.
Crystal River dropped their record down to 8-13 with that defeat, which was their third straight at home. As for Hernando, their victory bumped their record up to 11-12.
Crystal River will be playing in front of their home fans against the Hornets at 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Weeki Wachee is strutting with some offensive muscle, as they've averaged 55.2 points per game this season. Hernando will be staying on the road on Tuesday to face off against the Eagles at 7:30 p.m. on January 30th. Springstead is strutting with some offensive muscle, as they've averaged 57.8 points per game this season.
