Tanner Lueker scored 20 points to help lead the Junction City Blue Jays to a 58-42 win over the Topeka West Chargers in boys basketball in the capitol city Tuesday night.

The win was the sixth of the season for Junction City against 13 defeats.

Blue Jay coach Pat Battle praised his team’s defense and free throw shooting where Junction City went 17-20.

On Lueker’s play Battle said, “He had a phenomenal night. His best night of his career thus far.” Came in very focused and ready to perform, and just did all the little things really well. We left him out there a long time to.” Lueker went 8-8 from the free throw line for Junction City.  Jordan Lawrence also had 13 points for the Blue Jays.

The Blue Jays will play Shawnee Heights Friday night in the Shenk Gym at JCHS.

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In the girls game Junction City led 40-29 in the fourth quarter, but had to survive a late Topeka West rally before pulling out a 46-43 victory.

Coach Nate Parks said Junction City has a young team. “So we’re trying to learn how to finish games. We got rattled a little bit, started making some turnovers, and not finishing plays, but we did get the win.”  Junction City is now 4-14 on the season.

The Lady Jays will host Olathe North Thursday night and will Shawnee Heights Friday evening.