The Hilltoppers simply dominated.
Science Hill used an aggressive, nonstop defense that contested passes, ate up loose balls and slashed away at Northview’s (Duluth, Ga.) confidence to build a strong 11-0 lead on Wednesday afternoon in a first-round game in the 25th annual Arby’s Classic tournament at Viking Hall.
The Hilltoppers’ early run never slowed down.
Science Hill held the Titans scoreless for the game’s first 6 minutes, 30 seconds, and took a 40-15 advantage into halftime.
“Our kids came to play,” said Hilltoppers coach Ken Cutlip. “We were solid and we really cut down on their dribble penetration. I also thought we ran the floor well.”
Chris Smith led Science Hill (13-2) with a game-high 17 points and six rebounds, while Spencer Bradley added 11 points, three rebounds, two assists and two steals.
“We just kept them in front of us,” said Hilltoppers junior guard Larry Smith, who added nine points and five rebounds. “We knew we had to come out and play hard against a good team.”
Jordan Rainford scored a team-high 10 points and grabbed four rebounds for Northview (8-2).
Science Hill controlled every significant aspect of the game. As their defense dominated the boards and momentum, the Hilltoppers mixed layups with putbacks, 3-pointers and mid-range jumpers, putting on an impressive 32-minute display of precision and focused intensity.
Science Hill shot 51.8 percent (29 of 56) from the field and outrebounded the Titans 43-14.
“We were missing two of our main guys, but there was nothing we could do about that,” said Northview coach Steve Bombard. “We knew they were going to press us, but we didn’t think we’d have so much trouble in the half court.”
Titans senior center Ralph Samson III was out of action due to bronchitis. Bombard said that Sampson is expected to play on Friday.

NORTHVIEW (35)
Jordan Rainford 10, Robe Sampson 6, Davidson 6, Nicholson 5, Kubandi 4, Kim 2, Stryzinski 2, Joseph 0. Totals 15-44 1-5 35.
SCIENCE HILL (77)
Chris Smith 17, Spencer Bradley 11, Smith 9, Adam 8, Grey 8, Hancock 7, Odem 5, Hamilton 4, Moulton 4, Jacobson 4, Duncan 0, Joslin 0. Totals 29-56 14-22 77.
Northview 5 10 9 20—77
Science Hill 19 21 17 11—35
3-point goals—N 4-20, SH 5-13. Total fouls—N 16, SH 12. Assists—N 7, SH 15. Turnovers—N 20, SH 15. Steals—N 8, SH 10. Points in the paint—N 20, SH 44. Bench points—N 21, SH 47.