Homestanding Cleveland turned up the defensive pressure but committed lots of fouls. Hayden, however, couldn’t capitalize and made just 20 free throws in 38 attempts as they fell 85-57 in their season opener.

Cleveland’s Colton Bearden streaked for 30 points, and teammate Tyler Robertson added 25 as they battered the Wildcats throughout.

The pressure caused Hayden to turn the ball over 31 times for the night.

Owen Hargett led the way for the Cats with 20 points. Taylor Scott added 10 and Ben Curry had eight.

Hargett led Hayden rebounders with eight boards.

The Wildcats open the home portion of their schedule Monday as they host Locust Fork in a girls-boys doubleheader. The girls contest starts at approximately 5:30 p.m. Hayden the travels to rival Corner on Tuesday night.

From staff reports