Heritage Christian entered Tuesday’s game against Tri-West on a 24-day layoff, and the Bruins had a long break as well. They beat Harrison (West Lafayette) on December 23.

 

There were no signs of rust from either team as they combined for 32 points in the first five minutes of the game. Mason Loviscek was on fire early for Tri-West. Loviscek made his first four shots to score ten first-quarter points. Despite that, Heritage Christian used a balanced attack led by Andrew Wiggins to lead 19-18 after the first period.

 

In the second frame, Alex Covey took over the game. The Tri-West forward scored 12 points in the second quarter. He showed great footwork and touch in the paint. Covey’s scoring output pushed the Bruins to a 35-29 halftime lead.

 

Out of the locker room, it was the Jack Belt show. He scored on the first Heritage Christian possession then followed it with two three-pointers. With his personal 8-0 run, the Eagles took the lead. On the other end, it was Covey answering the call for Tri-West. He scored seven of the Bruins’ ten third-quarter points.

 

With the game tied going to the fourth, Heritage Christian used a potpourri to grab the lead. Alex Behlmer and Derran Cobb cashed in three-pointers, and Belt had a few timely scores as well.

 

Down two possessions for most of the final period, Tri-West stayed within striking distance thanks to Ethan Depinet and Dylan Bear. The duo scored 13 of Tri-West’s 16 fourth-quarter points.

 

In the end, Heritage Christian made enough defensive plays and free throws to take away the 65-61 victory.

 

For the game, there were 13 lead changes and eight ties. The entire second half was played at two-possession or fewer margin.

 

Belt led HC with 16 points and five rebounds; Myles Colvin tallied 11 points and three assists; Andrew Wiggins recorded nine points and seven rebounds.

 

Covey finished with 23 points (10-13 FG) and nine rebounds; Mason Loviscek had 12; Bear scored 10, and Ethan Depinet had eight points and eight rebounds.