The Eureka Tornadoes played in the annual Hillsboro basketball tournament this past week in Hillsboro. The Tornadoes opened tournament play with a 14-65 loss to Holcomb. The game was as lopsided as the score, as the Tornadoes had 12 turnovers in the first quarter against the Holcomb press. In addition, the Holcomb cagers shot the ball very well, and the Tornadoes couldn’t buy a shot. Between not shooting well and not taking care of the ball, the game was over well before half time.
The second game they played was a win against Republic County High School, 36-34.
Obviously, the Tornadoes played much better in this game. The Buffaloes couldn’t get open shots against the Tornado defense. The score was kept close by Eureka’s inability to hit a shot or a free-throw. The Tornado offense looked much better in the second half, hitting shots and rebounding much better.
They lost the third game, to host Hillsboro High School, 26-47. The Tornadoes played well the entire game but eventually succumbed to the Trojans’ shooting. Eureka went cold in the second and forth quarters, scoring 3 and 2 points respectively. This doomed a great effort.
Considering how poorly the Tornadoes played the first night of the tournament, the last two games were a welcome sign that they are getting better.
Up Next
The Tornadoes resumed play Tuesday, Jan. 23, at home. They will be seeking their third win of the season against Caney Valley High School. Eureka will then host Fredonia on Friday, Jan. 26, before hosting Humboldt on Jan. 30.
