New Kent overcomes deficit, takes down Bruton in Bay Rivers District opener

Bruton’s Khamani Phillips (2) fails to intimidate New Kent’s Kyle Diggs, despite making contact on a move.

Robb Johnson photo

After a convincing victory over King William, New Kent’s Trojans looked to carry that momentum during a Dec. 2 contest against the visiting Bruton Panthers. While the start was slow for the hosts, it was the finish that counted the most.

New Kent rallied from a nine-point deficit in the second half to claim a 68-65 victory in their home opener to the delight of the crowd.

In the first quarter, New Kent held a 12-10 lead before Bruton swung momentum in a matter of moments. Back-to-back three-pointers by Brandon Turner and Brandon Freeman, respectively, put Bruton on top. A lay-up by Freeman to close the first quarter highlighted an 8-0 Panthers’ run and provided the guests a six-point lead. New Kent did nothing to get any closer for the remainder of the first half, heading into halftime trailing 35-29.

Bruton built its biggest lead to nine (46-37) before the Trojans offense finally found consistency. A trifecta by New Kent’s Dillon Mickles and then veteran returnee Kyle Diggs cut the margin down to three (46-43). Bruton survived the additional onslaught, countering the other remaining scores by the hosts to head into the final stanza up by three (50-47).

But right out the gate, New Kent made another offensive move as Isaiah Carr’s drive to the basket resulted in a score and free throw attempt. Carr sank the bonus shot to tie the game at 50 apiece. Will Ross’s field goal bestowed New Kent its first lead since the first quarter.

The Trojans led 66-63 with 28 ticks showing on the clock. Bruton’s defense ramped up, forcing New Kent into a turnover. The Trojans were unable to slow down Freeman, who was fouled during the waning moments. He sank two of three free throws, cutting the deficit to one (66-65).

New Kent turned the ball over again, allowing Bruton to have another crack at winning the game. But on the ensuing inbound, New Kent’s Andrew Johnson utilized his 6’5” frame, forcing a turnover after teammate Josiah Reedy stole the ball and threw it off a Bruton player.

Bruton fouled Carr on the inbound pass, resulting in two free throw attempts for the Trojan. He calmly sank both and a desperate attempt at the buzzer failed to fall for Bruton, ending the game.

New Kent Head Coach Garrett Ross talked about his team’s effort to come back and win.

“I was proud of the way we played in our first district game,” the victorious coach said. “Bruton is sort of like us in a lot of ways.

“We came together strong in the end,” Ross added. “I love this team and this year, and we are playing with a lot of grit. They play for each other, with a lot of heart, and I am excited for the future.”

New Kent improves to 2-0 on the season.