Plainview Finds Winning Groove
By Nick Hall
Plainview found its winning groove last week. After dropping their home opener in an epic battle with Class 7A Huntsville and taking it on the chin from 7A Hoover in the Ramsay Tipoff Classic at Birmingham, Plainview found its winning groove with road wins over 7A Gadsden City and 5A Guntersville last week.
Plainview 69, Gadsden City 45 – Plainview took control of the ballgame early when the Bears met the Gadsden City Titans last Tuesday night. Plainview jumped out to a 26-13 lead at the end of the opening period, much to the delight of head coach Robi Coker. “It was a great team win,” said Coker. “The fast start offensively probably gave us some confidence.” The Titans slowed Plainview in the second period, outscoring the Bears 12-8 to go into the half down 34-25. Plainview outscored Gadsden City 19-13 in the third period and 16-7 in the fourth to get the win. “Defensively, we did a good job of keeping them in front of us and contesting shots,” said Coker. “I really liked the way we closed the game out. We were able to burn clock and get some open looks.” Cole Millican had a big night, posting a double-double. Millican netted 24 points and grabbed 14 rebounds on the night. Tristan Willingham scored 12 points and pulled down four rebounds. Dylan Haymon and Grant Sanders had eight points and five rebounds each, followed by Jonah Williams with six points and five rebounds. Luke Smith added five points and three rebounds. Jacob Henderson contributed four points and three rebounds while Navy Laney and Bryce Luther each had one point.
Plainview 85, Guntersville 72 – It was the same recipe against the Guntersville Wildcats as the Bears took a 25-14 lead at the end of the first period. “What a difference a week makes,” said Coker. “Another fast start offensively. Obviously, it’s the best game we’ve played offensively. We really moved the ball well.” The Bears also shot, particularly from 3-point land. Plainview knocked down 18 baskets from beyond the arc. Plainview led 44-36 at the half and 71-47 after the third frame. The Wildcats won the final period 25-14, but the hole was too deep. “This group still has to learn how to finish the game, but overall it was a good win over a quality opponent,” said Coker. Willingham led the Bears stat sheet, scoring 23 points and pulling down five rebounds. Millican followed close behind with 23 points and four rebounds. Williams netted 19 points and grabbed two rebounds. Sanders added nine points and three rebounds, followed by Smith with eight points. Smith had a big night off the boards, however, pulling down 12 rebounds. Haymon added three points and three rebounds. “We have to improve every night out, and I thought we did that this week,” said Coker. “Next week will be another challenge for us because all three teams we play (Anniston, Hewitt-Trussville, and Etowah) have post-season expectations.”
Plainview Finds Winning Groove