By Matt Browning

The Salina South boys basketball team was chosen as the Visit Wichita Team of the Month for December. The Cougars defeated two preseason ranked teams in the opening week of the season: Eisenhower and Derby.

“We return four players that have been starters for us the last two seasons along with a veteran group of reserves that have been through the battles,” Salina South coach Jason Hooper said. “We knew we would have a very difficult schedule and would have to play well each and every night to win, and so far we have found a way to get that done.”

In its season-opening victory over Eisenhower, Salina South jumped out to a 19-8 lead and never relinquished it. Then against Derby, the Cougars trailed 35-33 going into the fourth quarter before outscoring the Panthers 20-13 in the final period.

“We pride ourselves in our defense and look to be disruptive to the teams we play,” Hooper said (as of press time the Cougars had allowed just 45 points per game). “We have held both of our opponents in the 40’s, which gives a great chance night in and night out if we can continue that.”