OROVILLE – In a season of learning for the Oroville boys basketball team, progress won’t always be measured in terms of wins.

Happily for the Hornets, an effective fast break offense and improved shooting brought home a tangible sign of their progress to the tune of an 80-39 victory over Columbia (Hunters) on Saturday, Dec. 15.

The Hornets were off and running from the opening tip, scoring the game’s first 11 points and leading 28-14 after a first quarter in which the two teams combined for seven 3-pointers.

Oroville kept up the pressure by continuously beating the Lions’ defense to the bucket on the fast break.

The Hornets led 46-23 at the half, surpassed their season high for points in a game midway through the third quarter and added to their lead to the finish.

Connor Hughes scored a game-high 25 points, plus started at last a half of the Hornets’ fast breaks with rebounds and quick outlet passes.

All seven Hornets who played scored, with Dustin Nigg putting up 14 points, Jose Sarmiento adding 13, Gil Ildelfonso chipping in with 11, Connelly Quick and Chase Nigg furnishing seven and recent call-up Juan Lopez scoring three.

The Hornets (2-5) close out their pre-Christmas schedule with a non-league game at Entiat on Friday, Dec. 21.

Brent Baker/staff photo Connelly Quick goes up for two against the taller Columbia team.

Brent Baker/staff photo Dustin Nigg fakes Columbia’s Dustin Wyborney into the air in the second half of the Hornets’ victory on Saturday.

Brent Baker/staff photo Juan Lopez draws a foul during Oroville’s 41-point victory on Saturday.

Brent Baker/staff photo Joe Sarmiento cuts through the Columbia defense for a layup.