Rex Hallam converted an Effingham turnover into a three-point play to begin the second half and spark a 10-2 run that helped Olney expand its lead to 42-18. It was 46-21 heading into the final eight minutes.

“I thought our effort was very good,” Farmer said. “The kids did the things we asked them to do. We just struggle putting the ball in the hole.”

The shooting statistics prove that. The Hearts connected on 11-of-36 shots, a 30 percent clip, while the Tigers made 53 percent of their attempts, making 19-of-36. From behind the arc, Effingham was 0-for-10. Olney was 9-for-19.

Hallam finished with a game-high 19 points and Winkler joined him in double figures with 13. Olney improved to 13-2 on the season.

Cole Phillips led EHS with 10 points and also had a game-high seven rebounds.

“Overall, I thought our kids played a good game,” Farmer noted. “In a season of growth, to see kids play a little better each night is a positive sign. And I’m seeing improvements.”

The Hearts are now 2-15 on the season. They have two more games this week – both on the road. They will play Friday at Mt. Zion and then travel to Robinson on Saturday.