BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

PAINTSVILLE — The Martin County Cardinals knocked off 10th Region Montgomery County Indians 69-58 Saturday in the Johnson Central Challenge.

There was no scorebook for this event, but the Mountain Citizen was able to garner some stats.

This was a fast-paced game as both teams went back and forth, but the Cardinals proved too much for the Indians and pulled away for the win. 

Leading the way for the Cards, shooting guard Luke Hale notched 20 points and seven rebounds.

Brayden McKenzie collected his first career varsity double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds.

Rounding out double figures, Jacob Sturgell fired in 12 points.

Dray Duff handed out dimes with 10 big assists and five points. Matthew Linville had eight points, Blake Maynard added four points and Peyton Davis chipped in three.

Coach Jason James’ team is coming off a 24-8 season and a 57th District championship.

“I was happy with the win over a very good Montgomery County team,” James said. “Our kids played hard and played together. We have some things to work on, but I was pleased with the results. It was good for our guys to see someone other than each other.”

The coach is looking forward to the 2022-2023 season.

“I’m excited about this team and this season,” said James. “We have to be patient with them, but we have a chance to be a pretty good team.”

The Cardinals return to action Saturday in the Zip Zone Classic, where they will take on Logan (W.Va.) at 6:40 p.m. at Martin County High School.