The Norton Bluejays couldn't capitalize on their home-court advantage in their season opener. They were beaten by Hoxie 58-29 on Friday. Norton has not had much luck with Hoxie recently, as the team's come up short the last three times they've met.
Norton's defeat shouldn't obscure the performances of Hallie Brooks, who dropped a double-double on 11 points and 10 rebounds, and Jenessa Ruder who scored 7 points along with 5 rebounds.
Norton struggled to work together and finished the game with only four assists. They were crushed by their opponents in that department as Hoxie racked up 19.
Hoxie was led to victory by Josey Kennedy and Emily Bainter. Kennedy scored 22 points, while Bainter scored 16 points along with 7 rebounds and 5 steals. Another player making a difference was Avery Mauck, who scored 5 points along with 5 steals.
Norton's loss dropped their record down to 0-1. As for Hoxie, their win bumped their record up to 1-0.
Norton will square off against McCook at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday. As for Hoxie, they will head out on the road to face off against Ness City at 6:00 p.m. on Monday.
