Dialog reporter
WILMINGTON – St. Elizabeth jumped out to a 17-8 lead after the first quarter and was never challenged on the way to a 70-22 win over Hodgson in boys nonconference basketball on Dec. 21 at the St. E Center. It was the fifth win in six outings for St. Elizabeth, which is now off until the new year.
The Vikings hit seven three-point shots on the evening, including two in the first quarter by Jordan Brown. The junior scored eight of his 16 points in the first eight minutes. The lead grew as the second quarter progressed, and consecutive steals and buckets by Nate Thomas and Brown as the half ended gave the home team a 33-14 advantage at the break.
This did not get much better for the Hodgson after intermission. Multiple turnovers plagued both teams during the third quarter, but the Silver Eagles were not able to take advantage. A layup by Jamir Flowers late in the third made the score 44-22 in favor of St. Elizabeth and would be the final points of the evening for the Silver Eagles.
The Vikings (6-1) scored the last two points of the third and all 24 points in the fourth as their aggressive defense gave Hodgson fits. Vikings coach Matt Rubincam took advantage of the big lead to clear his bench and get valuable playing time for the entire roster.
Nate Thomas paced the Vikings with 23 points, who had nine players reach the scoreboard. They are off until Jan. 3, when a visit to William Penn awaits. Tip is at 6:30 p.m.
Hodgson received seven points from Flowers. The Silver Eagles, who fell to 0-5, will go for their first win on Jan. 4 at 5:15 p.m. at home against Red Lion.
