By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–The Helena boys basketball team needed a win against the Jemison Panthers on Thursday, Jan. 14 to finish as the top seed to host the area tournament next month, and they did just that, defeating Jemison 41-18.

Helena’s defense was aggressive all night and forced Jemison into some tough shot selections that resulted in a low shooting percentage from the field.

Helena head coach Chris Laatsch knew his team needed to do a better job of guarding the Panthers shooters, especially around the three-point arch.

“Well they’ve got a lot of great shooters and last time they hit 10 threes on us and scored 54 points,” said Laatsch. “We knew that we had to guard the arch better tonight so I thought our guys did a really good job of covering the three-point shot.”

Helena’s defense held Jemison to just two made three-pointers all night and held the Panthers well below 54 points.

Helena’s Justin Stuckey had a solid game finishing with 18 points that included four three-pointers to lead all scorers.

Jon Brown once again finished in double digits, adding 14 points for Helena.

With the win, Helena remains undefeated in area play and clinched the opportunity to host the Class 5A Area 7 tournament that begins on Feb. 11.

Laatsch credits the success to senior leadership and the hunger and drive his team has had.

“Well I think first thing is we’ve got seven seniors and I think they’re doing a great job of leading us and keeping our guys focused everyday at practice,” said Laatsch. “They want to finish this thing well so I think great leadership is a big part.”