Perry Central Beats Cannelton 71 to 53, Starts Season 3 to 0

Perry Central built a commanding lead through three quarters and closed out a 71 to 53 victory over Cannelton in a boys varsity contest played in Cannelton on Dec. 9. The game was effectively decided by the end of the third quarter when Perry Central led 58 to 29, and although Cannelton trimmed the margin in the fourth, the visitors maintained control to improve their early season record.

Key contributors for Perry Central included Gage Clark, who finished with 13 points, 6 assists and 5 steals, and Ben Hubert, who scored 12 points while making five of seven shots. Cannelton received strong individual efforts from Gage Garrett, who had 18 points, 7 assists and 3 steals, and Kobe Aud, who led the team with 21 points while shooting 50 percent from the floor. The loss dropped Cannelton to a 2 and 3 record.

The game showcased depth and defensive pressure from Perry Central, which converted turnovers into transition points and protected its lead through the third quarter. For Cannelton, the fourth quarter rally demonstrated resilience and provided valuable minutes for underclass players as the Bulldogs search for consistency early in the season.

Beyond the scoreboard, the matchup is a reminder of the role high school athletics play in Perry County life. Games bring students, families and neighbors together and offer important opportunities for physical activity, teamwork and youth development. At the same time the contest highlights ongoing conversations about equitable funding for school sports, access to athletic training and medical care for student athletes, and support for programs in smaller communities that can face resource constraints.

Perry Central is scheduled to host Wood Memorial next, while Cannelton will travel to play Seven Oaks Classical. Residents who missed the game can view the replay on the NFHS Network. As both programs continue their schedules, attention will turn to sustaining player safety, community engagement and fair access to athletic opportunities across the county.