A battle of top five teams in 5A took place at the Bluestem Classic Friday as top ranked Kapaun Mt. Carmel defeated Emporia 68-52 in El Dorado.
Kapaun scored the opening six points as they never trailed. The Crusaders closed the first up 20-9. Kapaun extended their lead to 13, but Emporia closed the second out strong to cut it to 34-26 at half. It was just a five point game heading to the fourth, 48-43. The Crusaders led by as many as 18 in the final quarter.
Coach Evan Burns liked what he saw out of the offense against one of the best defenses in the state.
Terrick Franklin had a team high 20 points.
EHS falls to 12-2.
Emporia will play for third on Monday at 6p.m. against Manhattan Chief.
