On Monday, Dec. 7, the Washington Blue Lion 8th grade boys basketball team opened the 2015-16 season at home with a 54-40 win over the East Clinton Astros.

The Blue Lions started the game strong by shooting well from behind the three-point line and taking an early six-point lead to end the first.

East Clinton responded with a strong defensive effort and was able to tie the game going into the halftime break.

In the second the half it was great rebounding and transition, according to coach Ryan Garrison, that helped secure the 14-point victory for the Lions.

Eli Lynch led all scorers for Washington with 16.

Garitt Leisure had 15, Trevor Rarrick had 11, Levi Ludwick had 10 and Gabe Arazo contributed 2.

Washington began a four-game road trip at Hillsboro Thursday.

Washington will be at Chillicothe on Monday and at Clinton-Massie Thursday, Dec. 17.

SCORE BY QUARTERS

W 15 6 16 17 — 54

EC 9 12 7 12 — 40