by Austin Marsman

Watervliet chalked up a 54-49 victory over Martin Friday night in front of an excited winter homecoming crowd.

It was all Panthers in the first quarter, up 14-6. Martin narrowed the gap trailing by just 3 points, 19-16 at the half.

“It seemed like the whole second half they were one step ahead…That really pushed the game just out of reach,” said Clippers coach Brad Moelker. 

Newcomer Alex Hardy, a transfer from Otsego, once again led the charge for the Clippers, notching 14 points. Senior Logan Elkins put up 10 points and Carter Hilton contributed 8.

Panther Garrett Matthews fought to the hoop for 10, leading his squad.

At 5 wins and now 7 losses, the Clippers have a long week of preparation before their winter homecoming Friday. Martin will welcome the 11-0 Coloma Comets, who won by a 23-point margin earlier this season. 

(Photos by Austin Marsman)