The season came to a close for Waverly Saturday night as Hutchinson Central Christian pulled away late to claim the Class 1A Division II Sub-State Championship, defeating the Bulldogs 55-47.
The opening quarter set the tone for a competitive contest, with both teams trading baskets throughout the period. Waverly kept pace behind balanced scoring and solid defensive pressure as the game was knotted at 15-15 after one quarter.
Defense took over in the second period as points became harder to find. Hutchinson Central Christian managed to gain a small edge before halftime, capitalizing on turnovers and trips to the free throw line to take a 24-18 lead into the break.
Waverly came out firing in the third quarter, knocking down back-to-back three-pointers in the opening 90 seconds to quickly cut into the deficit and swing momentum. The Cougars responded emphatically, however, putting together a 10-0 run that reestablished control. By the end of the third quarter, Hutchinson Central Christian had stretched the lead to 43-31.
The Bulldogs refused to go quietly in the final period. Waverly mounted a 10-1 run midway through the fourth quarter to trim the margin to within two possessions and briefly put pressure on the Cougars. Hutchinson Central Christian steadied itself at the free throw line down the stretch to seal the 55-47 victory.
Turnovers proved costly for Waverly, which committed 27 compared to 16 by Hutchinson Central Christian. The Cougars also held a decisive advantage at the free throw line, converting 20 of 28 attempts, while the Bulldogs finished 5 of 13.
Allie Stukey led Waverly in scoring with 11 points.
With the loss, the Bulldogs conclude their season with an 11-14 record.
