The Manhattan High boys and girls basketball teams began the 2015-16 season on Thursday night in Hays at the Hays Shootout against Thomas More Prep in the first round.
The boys were first up and after an 11-11 sluggish first quarter, the Tribe exploded the rest of the way offensively winning 69-53 over the Monarchs to start the season 1-0. SR Gabe Awbrey led the Indians with a team high 20 points on 7 of 14 shooting from the field. JR Tommy Ekart was the only other player in double figures for MHS with 14 points. The boys will play Garden City in the semi finals on Friday afternoon at 4:45, the Buffaloes held on to beat Newton 49-41.
The girls were replacing the most successful senior class in MHS girls basketball history. Four freshman saw minutes for Scott Mall and despite a sub par game from returning honorable mention player Gigi McAtee, the Lady Indians were able to hold off a furious TMP rally to win 56-47 to begin the season 1-0. SR Madison Mittie led MHS with 16 points. The girls will play Newton in the semi finals on Friday afternoon at 3:00. Newton had no problem beating Garden City 50-31.
