Perry Meridian starting the season 10-0 might be the biggest surprise of the season's first half. They were just 11-9 last season. Perry faced Southport in the opening round of the Marion County Tournament on Monday.
The pressure and length of Southport bothered Perry Meridian immediately. Southport jumped out to an early lead, and it looked like Perry might be in for a long night. Senior guard Anthony Hardy took control of the game for Perry with his outside shooting. He hit three three-pointers in the first half to have Perry tied with Southport at the break.
Sophomore center Joey Brunk was solid all game for Southport. He 9 of 13 from the field. Many of his baskets were a result of passes from freshman Paul Scruggs and junior Malik Bennet. Bennett and Scruggs both did an excellent job of seeing the floor.
Southport was able to put the clamps on Hardy in the second half. Hardy made three free-throws with seconds remaining in the game, but those were his only points in the second half. Perry seniors Curtis Green and Collin Timmons stepped up their games after halftime to keep them in the game.
Southport was in control most of the game, but Perry Meridian stayed within striking distance. Perry kept hanging around and hanging around until Malik Bennett buried a three-pointer off of a drive and dish from Scruggs. That was the nail in the coffin for Perry Meridian's legitimate chances.
Southport will play North Central - who beat Lawrence Central Tuesday night - on Wednesday at North Central High School.
Southport 12 11 16 22---61
Perry Meridian 7 16 9 20---52
Southport: Joey Brunk 23 points/11 rebounds, Paul Scruggs 16 points/4 assists/5 rebounds/2 blocks, Malik Bennett 12 points/4 assists
Perry Meridian: Anthony Hardy 16, Curtis Green 13, Dylan Windler 6 points/9 rebounds.