Hill College Tops Kilgore College in Thrilling Blalock Classic Opener

The opening day of the Evelyn Blalock Classic at Kilgore College showcased high-stakes action, with Hill College defeating the host team, the KC Lady Rangers, in a competitive 66-57 match. Earlier in the day, Midland College narrowly secured a 69-64 overtime victory over Panola College, setting the stage for an exciting weekend of basketball.

Hill College’s standout player, Kiah Goynes, delivered a remarkable performance, scoring a total of 20 points, including a pivotal three-pointer that tied the game at 53-53 late in the fourth quarter. Goynes began the game strong, hitting three three-pointers in the opening quarter, which propelled Hill to an early 14-6 lead. However, the Lady Rebels struggled to maintain momentum until Goynes’ crucial shot late in the game.

After her tying basket, Hill College took control with an impressive 3-point play executed by Journee Chambers, which put them ahead for good. Despite a valiant effort from the Lady Rangers, who managed to close the gap to 58-56 thanks to a three-pointer from Janiya Murphy, Hill responded with a decisive scoring streak to seal the victory.

Kilgore College’s Ja’Sani Green contributed significantly in the loss, finishing with 15 points and 11 rebounds. Other notable performances included Madison Bob with nine points, and Kelsie Magnum, who recorded seven points, seven rebounds, and four assists. The team’s efforts kept the score competitive throughout the match.

The game began with Hill College establishing an early advantage. Goynes’ hot shooting contributed to an initial eight-point lead, but Kilgore rallied back, closing the first quarter with a 10-0 run to tie the game at 14-14. The second quarter was marked by back-and-forth scoring, with the teams exchanging leads. Kilgore entered halftime with a narrow 32-30 lead after a step-back three-pointer from Bob just before the break.

In the third quarter, Kilgore maintained a slight edge, reaching a five-point lead at 39-34. However, Hill kept the pressure on and ended the quarter trailing by just two points. As the final period unfolded, Kilgore initially regained the lead at 53-50, but Goynes’ timely three-pointer shifted the momentum back in favor of Hill College.

In the other match of the day, Midland College triumphed over Panola College in a thrilling overtime contest. After trailing at halftime and into the fourth quarter, Midland fought back to force overtime, ultimately winning 69-64. Diana Szakolczi led Midland with 17 points, while Shaine Parker recorded a double-double for Panola with 17 points and 11 rebounds.

The Evelyn Blalock Classic continues on Saturday, March 16, 2024, with a match between Panola College and Hill College at 11:00 a.m., followed by Kilgore College’s women’s team facing Midland College at 1:00 p.m. The KC men’s team, currently boasting a record of 10-2, will also play against Lee College later that day at 16:00.

As the tournament progresses, fans can anticipate more exciting matchups and standout performances from rising talents across these colleges.