The Wildcats Malakai Anderson is presented the game ball by PCHS?Head Coach Fred King as soon as he drilled a three point basket in the closing second period for his 1,000th career point, while playing Wood County Christian in the consolation tilt of the Bob and Sharon Burton Holiday Classic. (Photo by Bruce Crawford)

Paden City Wildcat senior Malakai Anderson etched his name in the record books when he swished a basket from beyond the arc in the consolation tilt of the Bob and Sharon Burton Holiday Classic between Paden City and Wood County Christian Feb. 23. However, it was bittersweet as the Wildcats dropped a 50-41 decision in a packed Paden City Senior Night crowd.

After falling behind early, it looked bleak for the Wildcats, as the much taller and experienced Wood County team was having their way with them. But, you can’t size the heart of a bunch of Wildcats, as Paden City kept nibbling at their guests’ lead until Anderson drilled his three pointer late in the second period for his 1,000th point.

However, Wood County would answer and grab a one point lead heading into the locker room. Wood County added 15 points in the third to regain the momentum and eventually the victory, 50-41.

Josh Bennett led the exhausted Wildcats with 13 points, including a trio of baskets from beyond the arc. Anderson followed with 11 markers, while Peyton Hinkley netted six points. Besides the points, Anderson added a half dozen boards, four assists, three steals and blocked a pair of Wood County shot attempts.