In a thrilling district tournament match held at Sutton Gym on Tuesday, Marietta's basketball team emerged victorious with a decisive 74-50 win over Athens. Zaiden Wittekind led the scoring with an impressive 19 points, while Trey Hawkins contributed significantly with 18 points, six rebounds, four assists, and two steals. The game showcased not only individual brilliance but also the collective effort of the entire team, setting the stage for their upcoming clash against the Warren Warriors.

The key to Marietta's success was their stellar defensive performance and well-executed offensive plays. Early in the game, the Tigers established a commanding lead, thanks to Wittekind's three-point shooting and Hawkins' aggressive defense. Hawkins effectively neutralized one of Athens' top players, Leo Martin, holding him to just two points in the first half. Coach Austin Gardner praised Hawkins for his all-around contribution, highlighting his ability to both score and defend.

Wittekind, who had been struggling with his shooting recently, found his rhythm early in the game. He hit five out of seven three-point attempts, helping Marietta build a substantial advantage right from the start. His confidence grew as the game progressed, contributing significantly to the team's morale. Other notable contributors included Owen Riley with 12 points, Brayden Jones with 11 points, and Logan Grosklos with seven points.

Athens faced challenges throughout the game, particularly in the first half when they managed only 20% shooting accuracy. Despite Easton Nuzum's valiant effort with 19 points and six rebounds, Athens struggled with turnovers and could not keep pace with Marietta's relentless attack. By halftime, the Tigers had already built a 36-13 lead, which they maintained through strong teamwork and strategic plays.

The second half saw Marietta extend their lead further, with Hawkins and Riley delivering crucial moments that solidified their dominance. The final quarter saw a significant margin open up, with Jones' basket triggering a running clock. This victory marked the last game inside Sutton Gym for seniors Brayden Jones and Seth Britton, whose growth and dedication were acknowledged by Coach Gardner.

Marietta's next challenge is a high-stakes matchup against the Warren Warriors on Friday at Warrior Coliseum. Both teams have shown formidable performances this season, making this encounter a pivotal moment for both sides. Coach Gardner emphasized the importance of preparation and focus as they gear up for what promises to be an intense and exciting playoff game. Players like Wittekind are eagerly anticipating the showdown, recognizing it as one of the biggest games of their careers.