Hamilton Southeastern Boys Basketball traveled to Indianapolis Metropolitan High School on Tuesday, February 11th for a non conference matchup with the 1A Pumas.
Hamilton Southeastern (11-10)(1-5) was seeking their 3rd straight victory for the second time this season, previously besting Pendleton Heights (7-12)(1-5) and Franklin Central (6-11)(0-5) both by 15 points this past week. Their matchup this week? A date with the (14-6)(7-0) Indy Metro Pumas.
Indy Metro is a talented team, especially on the 1A level. They are 7-0 in conference play with three conference games remaining in their schedule
“Indy Metro is a gritty team with some good competition.”, said junior manager Ryne Hilgendorf.
After tipoff, the pace was immediately felt by the Pumas, surrendering 3 straight 3-pointers within the first 2 minutes of the game. Jack Jacobs, Varschon Clark, and Kallen Hoeft all began the scoring by hitting deep 3’s. Braeden Totton got into the paint on a couple of possessions, scoring two buckets. After the first quarter, the game was looking like it would be a breeze for the Royals, as Hamilton Southeastern led 21-15.
The second quarter was much of the same for the Royals, continuing their shooting hot-streak deep into the quarter. Kallen Hoeft continued the scoring, hitting his second three of the half. The Royals hit 4 more threes this quarter, as well as getting it done at the free throw line. On the opposite end of the floor, the HSE defense was locking down Indianapolis Metro, only allowing 11 second quarter points in 8 minutes of basketball. At the end of the first half, HSE led 40-26.
The start of the second half would be a slow one for the Royals, however they still were able to maintain a 10 point lead with about 3 minutes left in the quarter. Their effective defense continued into the 3rd quarter, and allowing the Royals to keep their lead while being slightly outscored in the period. HSE 47, Indianapolis Metro 39.
The 4th quarter brought a tough defensive battle from both squads. Indianapolis Metro, who averages over 60 PPG, was unable to spark a comeback in the quarter. Metro had switched into a full court press, initially confusing and slowing down the HSE offense. With about 5 minutes to go, HSE led 53-41. The Royals were able to break the press, throwing a couple of “Hail Mary” passes down the court allowing for quick lay-ups. Metro had to start fouling and sending HSE players to the free throw line to stop the clock with about 2 minutes left. When the horn sounded, the scoreboard read in favor of the Royals. HSE 65, Indianapolis Metro 50.
Senior Braeden Totton led the Royals in scoring, with 16 points, and Freshman Varschon Clark had 13 of his own. Hamilton Southeastern’s next matchup comes this Friday, when they travel to Carmel for a Valentines date with the Greyhounds. HSE has not won at Carmel since 2017.
