Golden Eagles knock off Tigers 61-53

STAFF REPORT

BSN

PAINTSVILLE — Johnson Central knocked off crosstown rival Paintsville 61-53 in a 57th District boys' basketball game on Friday, Jan. 21.

After claiming the win, Johnson Central improved to 8-7 overall and 2-1 in the 57th District.

Paintsville dropped to 12-4 overall and 1-1 in the 57th District following the loss.

Johnson Central shot 47.4 percent (18 of 38) from the field in the district win. The Golden Eagles thrived beyond the arc, shooting 64.3 percent (nine of 14) from three-point range.

Johnson Central shot 76.2 percent (16 of 21) from the free throw line.

Grant Rice scored 17 points to lead Johnson Central to the win.

Finishing directly behind Rice in scoring for the Golden Eagles, Jacob Butcher netted 15 points on five three-point field goals.

Recording a double-double for Johnson Central, Ryan Rose scored 13 points and pulled down a game-high 14 rebounds.

Contributing out of a reserve role for the Golden Eagles, Reece Collins added eight points.

Colby Fugate continued to lead reigning 15th Region champion Paintsville in the 57th District boys' basketball matchup.

Johnson Central is scheduled to host Paintsville for another 57th District boys' basketball game on Tuesday, Feb. 8.