Pirates fall to Tates Creek 85-50

​A wave of early first quarter turnovers caused the Powell County Pirates to drop their season home opener to the Tates Creek Commodores 85-50 on Tuesday night (Dec. 3). The turnovers came quickly as the full court pressure defense of the Commodores wreaked havoc on the Pirates ability to get any offense going. Unofficially, the Pirates committed 13 turnovers in the first quarter and found themselves trailing 16-5 as the buzzer sounded.
Things didn’t get much better in the second quarter as the Commodore’s defense continued to press the Pirates. The Commodores caused an additional 11 turnovers and had fast break after fast break to double up the Pirates scoring in the second quarter 26-13. At the half, Tates Creek led 42-18.
The Pirates played better to start the third quarter, having reduced their turnovers and outscored the Commodores 19-18. Their hustle on the boards and on the floor for loose balls, along with their ability to generate some offense was promising. However, Tates Creek led 60-37 at the end of three quarters.
In the fourth quarter, the Commodores went on an 8-0 run to extend their lead and outscored the Pirates 25-13. The final margin of victory was 85-50.
The Pirates were led in scoring by Colby Cook with 14. Luke Pasley chipped in 12 and Jace Ware had 11. Ethan Frazier came off the bench and was a big lift for the Pirates surge in the third quarter. Frazier finished with 7 points. The Pirates struggled with their free throws going 13 of 28 at the line.
The Commodores were led in scoring by Amari Taylor with 20, James McKenzie with 11, and Maxwell Morton with 10. Thirteen players in all scored for the Commodores.
The Pirates were without a few players due to injury and have a few days to get ready for their next opponent as they travel to Leslie County on Saturday, Dec. 6. Powell County returns home for a Tuesday match up against Wolfe County. The Pirates start the season 0-1. 

​-Ken Simon