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Varsity falls to Wheeling Central 56-46 in Buckeye 8 Challenge
The Waverly team faced a tough challenge on the road against Wheeling Central, ultimately falling 56-46 despite a strong effort that showcased the team's fighting spirit. The loss drops Waverly's record to 5-2, but the team demonstrated resilience throughout the contest, never backing down from the competition. Kage Alexander led the scoring attack with 13 points, while the team received solid contributions from multiple players in what proved to be a competitive matchup. Waverly got off to an excellent start, racing to an 8-3 lead after the first quarter behind early baskets from Alexander, Kai Keesee, and Gunnar Myers. The second quarter featured several exciting lead changes, with Wheeling Central mounting a 7-point scoring streak to tie the game at 10-10. Alexander responded with clutch free throws and a three-pointer, helping Waverly maintain competitiveness, though they trailed 19-17 at halftime. The third quarter proved challenging as Wheeling Central pulled away with another strong run, but Waverly continued to battle with Alexander adding 4 more points to keep his team within striking distance. Alexander's team-leading performance included an efficient 3-of-4 showing from the free-throw line, while Teagan Hurt provided excellent support with 9 points on an impressive 4-of-6 field goal shooting, including a crucial three-pointer in the fourth quarter. Keesee contributed 8 solid points with 4-of-9 field goal shooting, and the Myers brothers, Gunnar and Sawyer, combined for 10 points with Gunnar shooting an efficient 3-of-5 from the field. Despite the final outcome, Waverly showed great character by continuing to compete and score throughout the fourth quarter, outscoring their opponents 19-18 in the final frame and demonstrating the kind of determination that will serve them well moving forward.