The West Branch boys basketball team's struggle with close home losses continued, as they fell 51-45 to Alliance in a hard-fought game. With a 1-6 record at home compared to a stronger 5-3 mark on the road, the Warriors were hoping to turn the tide. However, shooting woes once again plagued them in the defeat.

The game took an emotional turn early on when Alliance's JR Jackson, just a junior, needed only three points to reach 1,000 career points. After West Branch took an early lead, Jackson responded with a clutch three-pointer followed by a fast-break layup, seizing momentum for the Aviators. The crowd erupted as Jackson hit the milestone, earning a well-deserved standing ovation from both teams' fans.

Despite Jackson's early heroics, Cooper Anderson and Camden Lane stepped up for the Warriors in the second quarter, keeping them within striking distance and trailing by just six at the half. West Branch's defense remained locked in, and they began to chip away at the lead. Gavin Gregory also got going in the paint, energizing the crowd with a powerful two-handed dunk.

In the fourth quarter, the Warriors took their first lead after a momentum-shifting and-one play, but Alliance answered with key shots and clutch free throws. Down the stretch, the Warriors struggled to find their offensive rhythm, and a couple of costly turnovers and missed opportunities allowed the Aviators to hold on for the win.

Top Performers

• Cooper Anderson led West Branch with 17 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal.
• Gavin Gregory contributed 10 points.
• Camden Lane added 8 points, including the only three-pointer of the game.

What's Next: The Warriors fell to 6-10 overall with the loss and will look to bounce back this Tuesday at Crestwood, where the Red Devils remain unbeaten at 13-0. The varsity game is set to start at 6:45 PM.