CABOT — Chase Christie hit a free throw with 5.8 seconds left to play to provide the winning margin for the Bryant Blue Hornets of Bethel Middle School in their season opener Thursday.
The Hornets defeated Cabot South’s eighth grade boys, 36-35.
Christie led the way with 13 points. Davis Nossaman added 12.
The game was close throughout. Bethel held a 9-8 edge after a quarter and was up 22-20 at the half. The Hornets maintained the lead, taking a 28-26 advantage into the final period.
"I was pleased with our intensity and defensive effort," commented Hornets coach Derek McGrew. "Cabot South was huge! They started four players over 6-feet. We only have one on our roster. But the boys showed tremendous teamwork and gave a gritty effort."
The Hornets return to action on Monday at 8 p.m., against Little Rock Episcopal at the Anthony School Classic in Little Rock.
On Tuesday, they take on the Anthony School at 5 and on Wednesday they play Arkansas Baptist at 6. The Classic concludes with consolation and championship games on Thursday.