The Polk County Wildcats are slowly moving toward the 50-50 mark in basketball after a 54-42 victory at Meigs County Friday night. Coach Rusty Brewer’s team is 4-5 on the season.

The Wildcats used a smothering defense in the second quarter for a 26-12 lead at halftime and held on over the final two quarters. Polk County was on top by three, 13-10, at the end of one quarter, then outscored Meigs County 13-2 in the second period.

A 30-28 edge for Meigs County in the second half was not enough to catch the Wildcats.

It was a balanced offensive attack for Polk County, led by senior point guard Alex Akins. Akins, the only Wildcats starter back from last season, tossed in 17 points with three 3-pointers and eight rebounds.

Brock Raper added 15 points to the Polk County total, while center Logan Brewer contributed 11 points, nine rebounds and three blocks. Evan Ball had five assists for the Wildcats in the game.

Levi Woods had a big night for Meigs County with 21 points and two 3-pointers. Ryan Henry added eight points and Tyler Skidmore got seven for the home team.

n In other high school basketball competition Saturday morning, Tennessee Christian Preparatory School’s Lady Hawks defeated Mt. Pisgah Christian Academy in the Crosstown Throwdown, 60-27. Grace Academy of Knoxville was the tournament host.

TCPS had earlier dropped a 62-24 decision to Scott County High School.

The Lady Hawks jumped in front early against the Lady Patriot Saturday, leading 15-6 at the end of the opening quarter and 30-16 at halftime.

Pacing the Lady Hawks in scoring was Jessica Merrill with 16 points and 12 rebounds. Natalie Calfee also had a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Guard Morgan Walls topped the Lady Patriots in scoring with 14 points.

The TCPS Hswks lost to the Webb Spartans Friday, 60-7, then dropped a 45-25 game to Grace Academy Satuday morning, 25-45. Jacob Coleman scored 12 points for the Hawks, with Andrew Thomas getting seven rebounds.