Head Coach Nathan Martin made an immediate statement Tuesday night, guiding Betsy Layne to a 54-51 win over Pike Central at the Hawks Nest.

The victory marked Martin’s first game as head coach of the Bobcats, who entered the night riding a three-game losing streak. Betsy Layne responded with a strong all-around effort and came away with a road win against a Pike Central team that had been playing well early in the season.

The Bobcats were led offensively by two players in double figures. Junior Brayden Hall finished with a team-high 17 points, shooting 54.5 percent from the field, knocking down 66.7 percent of his shots from beyond the arc and going a perfect night at the free-throw line. Freshman Caden Hall added 14 points, shooting 55.6 percent from the floor and an impressive 80 percent from three-point range, while also pulling down a rebound.

On the glass, senior Ethan Lance turned in a strong performance, hauling in 14 rebounds to help Betsy Layne control key possessions.

Pike Central also had two players reach double figures. Colton Ratliff led the Hawks with 14 points, while William Rowe chipped in 10.

The win improves Betsy Layne to 2-4 on the season, while Pike Central falls to 4-2. If Tuesday night is any indication of what the Bobcats can become under Martin’s direction, the future looks promising for the program.

Pike Central will be back in action Friday, Dec. 19, when the Hawks travel to Cordia for a 7:30 p.m. tip-off. Betsy Layne will return to the court Dec. 23, traveling to Breathitt County for a 7:15 p.m. start.