Triton varsity boys basketball coach T.J. Morrison said, “We got some good experience in a hot gym,” after the Hawks hosted Clinton for a summer scrimmage on Thursday night.

The Dark Horses finished with a 60-54 scoring edge after surging to a 19-10 lead in the first quarter.

Triton changed from a zone to man defense after the initial period and outscored the visitors 17-4 in the second quarter to lead 27-23.

Clinton had a 20-16 edge in the third quarter and led 17-11 for the final period.

“Then we played an extra quarter and an overtime period to let the young guys play,” Morrison said.

In the simulated extra period, Dalen Thompson scored the winning basket for the hosts.

Varsity returners Kalil Hodges, Emari White and Colby Parker were on hand for the Hawks. Junior varsity performers Tre’sean McLeod and Josiah Lett played extensively with younger players from the junior varsity in reserve roles.

Triton will be on hand for games at Middle Creek today and Saturday.

The Hawks began play Friday with a 33-30 win over South Granville after trailing 17-14 at the half. Triton started Parker, White and three rising sophomores.

Triton subsequently was topped 56-37 by Pine Forest after trailing, 25-10, at the half.

The Hawks concluded Friday with a 52-42 loss to Green Hope.

“A few mental lapses and errors,” Morrison said. “I loved that they competed and allowed themselves to be coached.”