Darren Kinnard/River Radio Sports Central
Russell Conwell/River Radio Sports Central
BENTON — The Benton Rangers used a strong second half performance to pull away from El Paso-Gridley for a 60-42 win in a matchup of 2A state ranked teams at the Rich Herrin Classic.
The Titans led 10-8 after one quarter, but the Rangers turned the tables, taking a 27-23 lead into the locker room at halftime thanks to Evan Munoz’ baseline jumper in the closing seconds of the half.
Luke Melvin scored nine of his 12 points in the third quarter, as the Rangers doubled their lead to eight at 44-36 after three quarters. Benton (23-3) then outscored EPG 16-6 in the fourth for the 18-point win.
Benton senior Isaac Billington led all scorers with 20 points. Melvin (12), Docker Tedeschi (11), and Munoz (10) also reached double figures. El Paso-Gridley (20-5) was led by Micah Meiss and Jonah Funk with 14 points apiece.
