SOPHS LEAD ORAN PAST M. HEIGHTS

ORAN -- Oran High's talented sophomore class paved the way for a 90-43 boys basketball victory over host Meadow Heights Wednesday night.

Even though the Eagles are still just 5-12, they have been highly competitive in recent weeks after moving up several sophomores from the JV to the varsity.

Tuesday night, the Eagles led defending Class 1A state champion Richland 44-34 at halftime before falling 86-66.

Wednesday, the Eagles had five double-figure scorers -- and all are sophomores. Billy Loper led with 18 points, followed by Ricky Eftink with 12, Jared Hamm and Dustin Dannemueller with 11 each and Daniel Wheeler with 10.

Meadow Heights got 12 points from both Kevin Weaver and Brandon Boyd. Avery Ennis added 10.

Both squads return to action at home Friday night, Oran against Leopold and Meadow Heights against Zalma.

Charleston 77

Meridian 49

CHARLESTON -- Charleston captured its 20th victory of the season Wednesday night as the Blue Jays rolled past visiting Meridian, Ill.

Larico Coleman scored 21 points to lead the Blue Jays (20-3). Also in double figures were Nick Pratt with 14 and Tyshun Williams with 10.

The Blue Jays led 27-12 after one quarter and 44-25 at halftime.

Charleston will host Poplar Bluff Friday night.