The Hillcrest Academy boys basketball team came up short in Kalona Saturday against Southeast Iowa Superconference South Division foe Danville 61-51. The Bears led throughout as the offenses controlled action in the first half. Danville was on top 20-14 after one and 40-30 at half. Out of the locker room it was the two team’s defenses that dictated things with Hillcrest winning the third frame 8-6, trailing by eight going to the fourth, but the Bears did enough down the stretch to keep the Ravens at arms length. Danville shot a lights out 61% from the floor in the win, helping to negate 10 made three point goals by the Ravens. The Bears also had 21 assists and just 10 turnovers.

Spencer Nelson had 28 points to lead Danville and Caiden Gourley went double double with 19 points and 10 boards. Hillcrest put a trio in double figures led by 16 points from Grant Bender, 13 from Luke Schrock and 12 from Seth Ours. Danville is now 8-3 on the year as the Ravens fall to 6-4. Hillcrest is back in action Tuesday when they host Highland. You can hear that boy/girl doubleheader live on AM 1380, FM 102.5 and KCIIradio.com, beginning with the Washington HyVee Pregame Show at 5:30, tip of the girls game at six with the boys to follow.