By JON WEBB
HORSE CAVE — Despite trying some “different things” on defense and scoring 79 points, Caverna lost to Allen County-Scottsville 97-79 Thursday night.
The loss marks Caverna’s second in as many games.
Head coach Tim Arnold received big games from Jerrod Harper (24 points, nine rebounds), Brett Davidson (19 points, 12 rebounds) and Jordan Johnson (20 points), but still wasn’t unable to overcome an “unexpected” 31 points from Allen County reserve Chris Ogles.
“We tried some different defenses, and I thought we really had them off balance,” Arnold said. “But to (Allen County coach James Willett’s) credit, he subbed in Ogles and he exploded for 31. We were really trying to limit (Caleb) Carver and (Casey) Napier.”
According to Arnold, Ogles scored 14 points in the first quarter, and shot seven for nine from three-point range to disrupt Caverna’s game plan.
“We had to play in scramble mode, but we scored 79 points,” Arnold said. “We can flat score the basketball.”
It was defense that presented a problem.
The Colonels have given up 177 points in their first two games. Arnold said the team will have to improve its defensive play, and not rely on outscoring opponents to be successful.
“In order to do what we want to do, we’re going to have to make a commitment on the other end,” he said.
Arnold said he thought Caverna’s defense improved in the third quarter.
He was also impressed with point guard Jordan Rice. Rice barely missed out on a double-double, compiling 13 points and nine assists with just three turnovers.
The Colonels will have little time to improve its defense. The team faces Hart County tonight.
“At the end of the day, it’s about (the players) saying ‘whatever it takes, I’m not going to let my guy score’,” Arnold said. “Now we’re overpursuing and trying to steal every basketball.
“It’s not an effort thing. We’re playing hard.”
