The Silver Knights have struggled so far in the 2019-20 basketball season, but one bright spot has been the play of senior guard/forward Mark Rucker. While the Knights have only won one game so far and stand at 1-6, it’s not been because of lack of effort.

Rucker is a natural athlete and stands out in three sports at Tyler Consolidated, with basketball being his least favorite. However, everything he does he does with a purpose, which is evident by watching him play. On Tuesday January 7, in a loss against Williamstown one of the states top teams, he poured in a game high 22 points while also grabbing seven rebounds and adding five steals. He also led the team with 19 points and nine rebounds in a recent loss to Ritchie County.

On Friday night against Ravenswood Rucker again showed his athleticism as he led the team in scoring with 15 and added 11 rebounds for a twin-double. He also dished out five assistrs and was credited with four steals.

Paden City junior guard/forward Carson Palmer a three sport athlete for the Wildcats, kept his team close in a recent loss to Beallsville, Ohio, as he connected on two 3-pointers and finished the contest with a team high 19 points. At 5’10” Palmer is a tough matchup at guard as he demonstrates good speed and good hands, he also plays under control around the basket, making him a double threat.

He has hit in double figures three times this season and is getting more confident with his shot with each game. In the game with Beallsville he added eight rebounds and two steals.The Wildcats are 0-8 on the season but have not been at full strength for the most part. Keep an eye on Palmer as he and the Cats look for their first win of the season.