BIC notches two conference wins

Junior guard Brandon Ballard poured in 55 points in two 3AA-North conference wins over the past week against Crowley's Ridge Academy and Walnut Ridge.

The victories boosted BIC to 26-1 overall, 9-0 in league play.

The Mustangs now are ranked second in the state in Class AA by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. They also are rated third overall in the Northeast Arkansas region by the Jonesboro Sun.

The Friday night home win, 79-60, over Walnut Ridge saw the Mustangs hit an amazing 13 three-pointers. Ballard led the way with 24 points. He was joined in double figures by Josh Nettles 20 and Brooks Taylor 17. The Bobcats also had three players in double figures -- Ryan Belcher 13, Chance Weeks 12 and Ryan Bauschlicher 10.

The Mustangs had more trouble with CRA on Tuesday night at Paragould.

The Falcons led 16-13 after one quarter, but the Mustangs rallied for a 34-31 halftime advantage. BIC led 55-44 after three and held on for the 78-66 victory.

Ballard scorched the nets for 31 against the Falcons. Also in double figures were Taylor 15, Mark Hawkins 12 and Nettles 10. CRA also had four players in double figures -- Joseph Walls 19, Caleb Livingston 15, Michael Eskew 11 and Kaleb Montgomery 11.

The Mustangs travel to Bay on Tuesday night and then host Marmaduke at Leachville on Friday.