Chandler’s Lions rolled down Highway 18 last week and picked up a pair of wins from 66 Conference rival Meeker.
For the boys, it was the fourth win in five games and marked a turn-around for the Lions, who started off the season 2-10.
“We’ve turned a corner at the right time,” said coach Austin Minshall. “We’ve gotten on a roll.”
Minshall said the Lions’ recent success came about because of a couple factors: five new starters settling in together and shifting to a man-to-man defense.
“We had played zone because I didn’t know how we’d match up with teams this year, athletically,” he said. “This team does a lot better job in man and when we’re playing well and playing with pace.
“We have five new starters this year, and now we have a rotation of younger kids, eight or nine guys.”
The Lions fell behind Meeker by 13 points at one point in the first half, but found a new gear in the second half, partly because of some changes in their offensive scheme.
“We spread them out and beat them off the bounce,” Minshall said. “We did some screen and roll and we got some activity away from the ball, so they couldn’t stand and help.
“And we applied a little more pressure and we didn’t give up a lot of second shots.”
Caeden Parris helped fuel the second half by scoring 14 points.
Kade Brewster had 15 points to pace Meeker and Jake Hilburn added 12.
In the girls’ game, No. 17 Lady Lions had little trouble with the hosts, recording a 49-27 victory.
Still, after the game, Meeker coach Brady Dukes said he feels good about his team and it’s potential for the post-season.
“I am very proud of their effort,” he said. “They haven’t quit on me one single game.
“That’s one thing you have to love as a coach. Especially from my seniors. I know they are playing at another level, which is progress to me.
“Come district time, we are going to be a much improved team and have all the pieces put together. That’s why all the rest of these games are just like practicing to get ready for that.”
Neither team scored much in the first half, with Chandler taking a 20-15 lead.
The Lady Lions hit the gas in the second half, outscoring Meeker 29-12 over the final two frames.
Leah Brannon had 21 points for Chandler, tops in the game and hit 10 of 12 foul shots.
Madison had 15 points, tops for Meeker.
Both schools were back in action Tuesday, with Meeker hosting Okemah and Chandler hosting Wellston.