Pirates hold off Helias

BRANSON - The Helias Crusaders were held to five points in the third quarter as Branson pulled ahead and went on to post a 65-57 win Friday night.

Helias, which dropped its second straight game, had a 17-12 lead after one quarter before Branson came back in the second quarter to tie the game at 26 at the half.

The Crusaders (3-2) hit a chilly spell in the third quarter, only hitting 2-of-10 from the field, as Branson outscored Helias 14-5 to take a 40-31 lead into the final frame.

Dean Wiley canned five 3s and led Helias with 18 points. Deon Hughes finished with 13, while Dylan Gish had 11.

Sam Pugh scored 28 points for the Pirates (4-4).

Helias returns to action Tuesday, Dec. 28 against Bixby, Okla., in the opening round of the Mike Kehoe Great 8 Classic at Fleming Fieldhouse.

In JV action, the Crusaders (3-2) lost 58-42. Jake White led Helias with 10 points.