Lions Start Off 2026 With An Impressive Conference Win

The Carterville Lions head back on the road tonight carrying momentum and numbers that matter. Fresh off a dominant 73–44 win over Harrisburg, the Lions now sit at 13–1 and turn their attention to a SIRR cross-conference matchup at Du Quoin. It’s another test away from home, where focus and execution travel just as much as talent.

That Harrisburg win was decisive early. Carterville jumped out 21–6 after the first quarter, stretched the lead to 37–13 at halftime, and never let up. By the end of the third, it was 57–31, allowing the Lions to control pace, rotate bodies, and close strong. It was a textbook example of starting fast and finishing faster.

Offensively, balance was the story. Zach Snow led all scorers with 20 points, while Colton Hawkins and Maddox Gulley chipped in 11 each. Max Lustenberger and Harper Lustenberger added 8 apiece, with Amareon Adams and Anson Anderson contributing 6 each. That nine-player scoring mix continues to define this Lions team—pick your poison rarely works.

Defensively, Carterville stayed true to its season identity. Pressure on the perimeter, rebounding discipline, and clean rotations limited Harrisburg to 44 points. It mirrors the season trend: strong field-goal defense, controlled possessions, and an ability to turn stops into efficient offense without forcing tempo.

Tonight’s matchup at Du Quoin brings a different challenge. The Indians enter at 5–5, eager to protect home court and test a Lions squad that has been steady all season.

Coverage begins at 7:30 PM on NewsRadio WJPF (AM 1340 / 99.5 FM) with Dave McKenzie and John Homan on the call, plus the YouTube livestream.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLN1V0DL6iAIMbM5SPjIdfcowYTv0UGjgu&v=M9HQH6C63tA

Another road test. Another opportunity to make a statement.