Wayne scored the first 11 points and was never threatened.
The lead reached 14-0 before Springfield’s Danny Davis scored the Wildcats’ first points on a pair of free throws with 5:10 left in the first quarter.
Wayne has now won four straight in the series, including a three-game sweep last season. That final win last year came in the Division I regional championship.
Wayne looked every bit as good as it did in last season’s run to the state championship.
Here’s what we learned:
1. Springfield has work to do to stay in contention for the Greater Western Ohio Conference Central Division title.
The loss dropped the Wildcats to 1-2 in the Central. That record also includes a tough 56-55 loss to Centerville on Dec. 11, Springield’s last defeat before rattling off its next seven wins.
Wayne improved to 4-0.
2. Springfield has work to do on defense. The Wildcats get another shot at the Warriors at home on Feb. 5.
The Wildcats had their moments Friday, but not enough to hang with the Warriors. Wayne rarely missed as it dominated the first quarter and first half.
3. Darius Harper took charge in the third quarter. The senior called for the ball underneath and got it to start the second half.
He scored six quick points to give the Wildcats a presence underneath.
4. What’s next for Springfield? The Wildcats travel to Beavercreek next Friday and play Massillon Jackson at Flyin’ to the Hoop on Jan. 17.
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