QUAKERS CAP HEARTLAND IN OPENER

SALEM, OH- In 2019, the Salem Quaker basketball team took their lumps in finding some experience for young players, and helping underclassmen find their game.  In the 2020 debut, Head Coach Jeff Andres looks brilliant with his strategy, and patience with his team as his Quakers knocked off a very good Heartland team 51-38 on Saturday night.

On a night that was carved out for the Tyson/Jones fight, it was the Quaker grit that was landing haymakers early when Salem stormed the scoreboard for 23 in the first quarter and totaled 37 by half.  Led on the game by standout Drew Weir’s 15 points, 12 of which coming outside the arc.  Jon Null added 9 tallies, and Dillon Monroy chipped in 7 for the Red and Black.

For Heartland, it’s a mission of finding the right ingredients for this year’s Lions.  Loaded with shooters and playmakers across the board, you could see Heartland started to mold together as the game went on.  Steven Baker had an impressive night with 15 points to lead the Lions.  Jon Bertovich notched 9 while Aaron Gault added five of his own.

Salem will return to action on Tuesday on the road against Springfield and Coach Josh Scott will allow his Heartland team to settle at home against United on Friday.