South Fork JVs drop game to Fort Bragg 51-37

Last Tuesday in Fort Bragg, South Fork High’s JV boys basketball team played well and except for a very lop-sided second half, outscored the home team 31-29. However, they gave up 18 points in the second period, scoring only 5, and were never able to close the gap after that point.

“It was a fun game to be a part of,” said head coach Brett Van Meter, “and we competed very well. There are times when our lack of experience shows,” he added, noting that he is not concerned about the score as long as the effort is consistent.

Freshman Jayden Paine scored 18 points, including four 3-pointers, and freshman Banyan Harding added 8 points, playing in his first game of the season after recovering from illness. “We know what Jayden and Banyan can bring to the game, we just need to get a few more players involved offensively and play four quality quarters,” said Van Meter.

Despite not having much time to practice, Van Meter was also pleased with his team’s ability to switch up defenses on the fly, a strength that he feels will serve the team well in their next game against Laytonville this Tuesday on the road, tip-off 4 p.m.

“A win on Tuesday will give us some much needed confidence to carry into the tournament at Potter Valley next weekend.”

Rounding out the scoring for South Fork were freshman Austin Worrell with 4 points, freshman Derrick Baldwin who made 3 of 4 freethrows, freshman Zeph Barrios with a bucket and sophomore Ayden Gallagher with a freethrow. The Cubs were 4 for 8 from the freethrow line.

South Fork 13     5    13    6        37

Fort Bragg  14    18    7     9       51

The JVs are now 0-2 on the young season.

Varsity Notes: Game details of Varsity’s 64-57 scrimmage loss to Fort Bragg will be covered after the Cubs play Laytonville Tuesday on the road, tip-off 7 p.m.