Eagles Soar Past Lawton 54–35; Stout Defense Helps Schoolcraft Start 1–0

Schoolcraft's Senior #2 Jimmy Miller with a huge block late in the 2nd qtr. Picture by Brady Triemstra

Schoolcraft started it's season on a high note Friday night, defeating Lawton 54–35 behind a physical, high-energy defensive effort that set the tone from start to finish.

Senior Jimmy Miller was the centerpiece of that effort. Miller protected the rim all night, blocking or altering nearly every shot Lawton sent his way and forcing the Blue Devils to rethink their approach around the basket. His presence inside anchored a defense that looked sharp for most of the game.

Schoolcraft head coach Derrick Small breaks the team down during a quick timeout Tuesday night. Picture by Brady Triemstra

The supporting cast around him was just as important. Ty Goddard, Kodee Bienz, and Bryce Lambe all delivered active defensive outings jumping into passing lanes, crashing the boards, and applying pressure that made it difficult for Lawton to develop any consistent rhythm. From the perimeter to the paint, Schoolcraft disrupted nearly everything.

The first quarter was a grind for both sides, ending in a 9–9 deadlock. But once the second quarter began, the Eagles found their stride. Stops turned into fast-break chances, the ball moved more freely, and Schoolcraft’s energy picked up noticeably. By halftime, the Eagles had pushed their lead to 25–16 and clearly established control. The second half widened the gap. Schoolcraft came out with more pace and composure, playing with a confidence that hadn’t quite surfaced in the opening minutes. Miller continued to lead the scoring effort, finishing with 19 points. Goddard added 11, and Bienz finished with 10. As the game wore on, Lawton struggled to match Schoolcraft’s intensity. The Eagles consistently won battles on the glass, secured key loose balls, and forced turnovers that slowly wore the Blue Devils down. The defensive pressure never really let up, and by the fourth quarter, Schoolcraft’s control was unmistakable. The win moves the Eagles to 1–0 heading into a notable matchup next Tuesday at Vicksburg a game that carries its own storyline. Schoolcraft head coach Derrick Small will coach against his father, Randy Small, the veteran Vicksburg coach who previously led Schoolcraft to two boys basketball state championships during his tenure. With the way Schoolcraft defended and executed in its opener, the Eagles appear well-positioned for a strong early-season test.