The Pleasantville boys’ basketball team hosted Earlham Friday evening in a West Central Conference tilt. In a scheduling quirk, only a boys varsity game was played. The Trojans were able to hang on for a 49-39 win after sloppy play throughout the second and third quarters, as heard live on KNIA3.

A crisp first quarter saw the Trojans jump out to a 14-10 lead over the winless Cardinals. That four-point margin would remain until the end of the third, when turnovers and missed high percentage shots plagued both teams.

Pleasantville was able to hit five of six free throws in the final minute to seal it. Trojan head coach Joel Allman said that despite the win, there are certainly some things to work on.

“We missed some shots that we should’ve made, but the biggest thing for me was the turnover situation. I felt like we were pretty careless with the ball, and when we’re turning the ball over, that means we’re not getting a shot on goal. And that’s ultimately going to hurt us in the scoring column.”

Mitch Harken led the way offensively with 14 points, while Tagen Douma added 10. Teron Mount pulled in 13 rebounds as well. As a team, the Trojans went 8-18 at the free throw line. Pleasantville improves to 3-1 overall and 2-1 in conference play. They’ll be back in action Friday night, hosting Des Moines Christian in the final game before Christmas break.