Hot Springs Tops Parkview in Thrilling Opener: Jai Hayes’ Triple-Double Leads Trojans to Victory in Gritty 75-70 Battle

In a high-energy clash at Trojan Arena, the Hot Springs Trojans outlasted the Parkview Patriots, securing a hard-fought 75-70 win that kept the crowd captivated from tip-off to the final buzzer. With both teams led by coaches stepping into fresh roles, this contest was about more than just basketball—it was a statement game for two programs with big aspirations.

A Familiar Face on the Opposing Sideline

Hot Springs head coach Josh Hayes, who spent the last four years leading White Hall, took charge of the Trojans at the end of last school year and has poured relentless energy into preparing this team. Meanwhile, on the Parkview bench stood interim head coach Antoni Lasker, who helmed the Hot Springs Trojans last season. Lasker, stepping into his new role following the late departure of Scotty Thurman, faced his former squad in an emotional season opener.

Quarter-by-Quarter Recap

Hot Springs set the tone early, racking up 18 points in the first quarter. Junior standout Jaeir Hardwell was relentless, scoring 9 of his team’s points while shooting an efficient 4-for-6 from the field. On the opposing side, the Patriots’ Jayden Slaughter controlled the boards, pulling down five rebounds in the first quarter alone to keep Parkview competitive despite early foul trouble.

By the second quarter, the Trojans maintained their momentum, balancing the foul count and ramping up the scoring. Senior UAPB commit Jai’Chaunn Hayes, who started slow, found his rhythm, finishing the half with 13 points, seven rebounds, and five steals. His intensity on both ends of the court helped Hot Springs head into the locker room with a 36-28 lead.

Patriots Fight Back

The third quarter saw Parkview mount a strong push. Slaughter, who had been a rebounding force, shifted gears to scoring, racking up 11 points in the third quarter. His effort cut into the Trojans’ lead, with Parkview trailing by just four points heading into the final period. Sophomore Alteso Walker and junior Joshua Wills also contributed key plays, keeping the Patriots’ offense alive.

Jai Hayes Closes it Out

With the game hanging in the balance after Slaughter sinks two free-throws to tie the game, Jai Hayes reminded everyone why he’s one of the top players in the state. Entering the fourth quarter, Hayes exploded, scoring 14 points and going 6-for-8 from the free-throw line despite a brief setback when his glasses were knocked off mid-game. His defensive effort remained stellar, adding five steals in the fourth quarter alone to bring his total to 10 on the night. Hayes finished the game with a remarkable triple-double: 34 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 steals.

Supporting Hayes’ heroics, Hardwell added 21 points and was a key playmaker throughout. Sophomore Elijah Reed and freshman Daron Hicks brought energy and critical minutes, while senior LaBraun Christon and junior Daejuan Ellis chipped in defensively and on the boards. The Trojans’ collective effort secured a 75-70 victory in front of an energized home crowd.

A Glimpse at Each Team’s Potential

For Hot Springs, this performance hinted at their potential to contend for the top spot in the 5A South. Coach Hayes has a roster brimming with talent, from experienced seniors like Hayes and Christon to rising stars like Hardwell, Hicks, and Ellis. Cleaning up their finishes at the rim and improving free-throw shooting (they went just 12-for-26 from the line) will be crucial as they aim for a deep state playoff run.

Parkview showed their resilience, led by Slaughter’s stellar performance. The junior finished the night with 26 points, 14 rebounds, and a block, establishing himself as the Patriots’ go-to leader. Sophomore Alteso Walker, junior Kolby Bell, junior Tyrian Thompson, and junior Joshua Wills all displayed flashes of brilliance, suggesting Parkview will remain a force in the competitive 5A Central.

Looking Ahead

Hot Springs faces a quick turnaround, taking on 6A powerhouse North Little Rock in the Da Matchup Showcase in Jacksonville tomorrow night. Meanwhile, Parkview is set to face 5A West contender Harrison on Saturday morning, where they’ll look to bounce back and build on tonight’s effort.

KFletch’s Takeaway

Hot Springs and Parkview gave fans a taste of the tenacity and talent that defines Arkansas high school basketball. With Jai Hayes leading the charge and a roster full of emerging stars, the Trojans look primed for a thrilling season. On the flip side, Parkview’s balance and fight under Coach Lasker make them a team to watch. The journey to March has only just begun, and it’s already electric.

KFletch🖤