Cloverdale boys' basketball wins big in Pizza Hut opener

TERRE HAUTE-In front of a record crowd the Cloverdale basketball team opened its play in the 15th annual Wabash Valley Pizza Hut Classic playing Riverton Parke. It was a rematch of an early season match up that the Clovers won easily. The second time round was much like the first game as the Clovers won 81-34.

Cloverdale coach Pat Rady returned to the floor where he spent 23 years. Earlier in the day Terre Haute Mayor Duke Bennette announced the the day would be known as Pat Rady Day, and Terre Haute South announced that the floor will now be called Pat Rady court.

"I'm humbled by it all, it's a testament to my former players, coaches and my family," Rady said. "Coming back to play here was exciting enough, but to have the follow need after me, wasn't something you ever expect when you get into coaching."

The first quarter saw Cloverdale get off to a 5-0 lead after a three pointer from sophomore Cooper Neese. Riverton Parkecame back with a 4-0 run to pull within one. Cloverdale took a timeout and responded with a 13-0 run to go up 18-8. Neese added a three and KJ Colman added two free throws and four baskets, three off steals.

The quarter ended with Cloverdale up 22-10. The second quarter was all Cloverdale, as they out scored the Panthers 19-9 to go into the half up 41-19.

The third quarter was the best of the night for Cloverdale as they outscored the Panthers 27-8 sending the game into the final quarter with Cloverdale up 68-27.

"I was pleased with our effort, we had solid ball movement inside and out. We took care of the basketball and played good defense," Rady said.

The final quarter saw both teams play its bench but Cloverdale out scored Riverton 14-7, sealing the 81-34 win. The Clovers play Terre Haute North in the last game tomorrow night.

"We'll show up and be ready to play. North has a good ball club and we respect them for what they can do," Rady said.

Cloverdale: 22 19 27 14-81

Riverton: 10 9 8 7-34

Scoring:

Cloverdale: Neese 26, Moore 4, Duff 6, Coleman 24, Heavener 5, Scott 4, White 3, Moore 7

Riverton: Sanders 5, White 4, Milner 3, Fifer 2, Gilstrap 3, Dickey 3, Thomas 6, Cobb 2