Farmington uses three double-digit scorers to knock off 2-time defending champion Eureka, 49-39. In his first MWHT game back from a second-consecutive MVP award, Eureka’s Tyler Heffren had an uncharacteristically poor shooting outing and the Hornets could not claw back. Farmington advances to the quarterfinals for the seventh year in a row. Shooting percentage was a liability in this lower-scoring contest, however, as both teams shot under 40%.
The Farmers of Farmington spread the ball around in this contest. As mentioned previously, three players finished in double figures: Keauntrey Barnes led the way with 17, Landon Crawford had 11, and Jack Gronewold added 10. Crawford and Barnes also had double-digit rebounds (14 and 12 respectively). In addition, Crawford also had a game-high six assists. Farmington secured assists in 13 of their 18 field goals.
Eureka’s Hornets found themselves in unfamiliar territory in this one. Eureka actually won the 2nd and 4th quarters, but lost the 1st and 3rd frames decisively. Two-time defending MVP Tyler Heffren, normally an effective and efficient shooter, went cold and could not shake it. He did finish with a team-high 13 points, but on 5-of-20 shooting and 1-for-4 from the line. Zeke Mason was second on the team with nine points (on 4-of-5 shooting) and also led the Hornets with seven rebounds. Eureka won the battle of the paint, 18-16 but were spelled by 16 turnovers.
Farmington (6-4) advances to Game 14 to face the winner of Rockridge and Lewistown. That game will be held on Friday at 6:30pm. Eureka falls to the consolation bracket, where they will face the loser of that same Rockridge/Lewistown game. That contest will be held Friday morning, at 10:30am.
Box Score
Farmington Info
Eureka Info
Chris Derry
December 28, 2023