Junior Derek Bixenman torched the Great Bend defense for a career high 21 points, but the Indians still suffered a 42-39 loss.
The Indians started out with energy as freshman Brady Werth had two blocks early on in the first quarter to get the fans and team pumped up.
Hays led early with an 11-2 lead but only gained three more points the rest of the quarter for a 14-6 lead.
Great Bend got back into the game in the second quarter as the score was tied at 21 at half.
The Indians led at the end of the third quarter though 31-30.
Great Bend had the lead 40-37 when Bixenman drove to the basket for the bucket and foul with 35.1 seconds, but missed the free throw. Great Bend was able to hold onto the lead for the 42-39 win.
Bixenman led the team with 21 points, sophomore Jordan Windholz had 11, while Sophomore Layne Downing and freshman Brady Werth both had three.
The next game for the boys is Friday, Jan. 13, at Garden City.
13kgriffin@usd489.com
