Norton was the 60-48 winner over Smith Center when they last played one another back in February of 2025, but their luck changed this time around. The Bluejays took a 49-42 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Redmen on Saturday. The Bluejays have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.
Ashton Kats
| 01/17/26 vs Smith Center | 2 |
| 01/16/26 @ Phillipsburg | 3 |
| 01/13/26 vs Oakley | 4 |
When it comes to explaining why Norton lost, don't look at Ashton Kats. Despite the final result, he shot 46% from the field en route to 18 points and seven rebounds. Kats is also on a roll when it comes to steals, as he's now grabbed two or more in each of the last three games he's played. Rylen Murray also deserves some recognition as he posted his first block of the season.
Smith Center had a senior duo take command as Brant Wilson posted 19 points and six boards and Reed Doane earned ten points along with five assists and five steals. Those five steals set a new season-high mark for Doane. Micah Fagan was another key player, putting up three points in addition to five rebounds and four steals.
Norton's defeat dropped their record down to 4-7. As for Smith Center, they have been performing well recently as they've won four of their last five contests. That's provided a massive bump to their 4-7 record this season.
Norton has already played their next matchup, a 58-33 win against Hill City on the 22nd. As for Smith Center, they also wasted no time getting back out on the court and have already played their next game, a 76-36 loss against Thomas More Prep-Marian on the 20th.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
