Helias beats Jefferson City JV, 73-32

It took a little while longer than expected, but the Helias Crusaders finally got the result many thought they would in Thursday's action at the Joe Machens Great 8 Classic.

Mere hours after getting one surprise when its opening round opponent announced it would miss the tournament, Helias was staring at an unpleasant surprise.

With Little Rock (Ark.) Central unable to make it to the Classic due to winter weather, tournament officials scrambled for a replacement. That meant Helias would face the Jefferson City junior-varsity team, and for one half, the Crusaders found themselves in the midst of a dogfight.

But a strong second half turned a 13-point halftime lead into a 41-point victory, as the Crusaders advanced with a 73-32 decision at Fleming Fieldhouse.