Warhorses top Mountaineers in Western Highlands Conference clash

Owen defends flawless home record against Mitchell

Fred McCormick
The Valley Echo
January 25, 2025

A pair of conference rivals squared off, Jan. 24, in the Swannanoa Valley, as 11-3 Owen hosted 6-6 Mitchell in the center of a packed gymnasium.

Boosted by a career-high scoring effort from senior Jack Wesley Burk, the Warhorses defended their court with a 69-58 victory, remaining unbeaten at home.

Winners of 12 of their last 13 games, the Warhorses entered the night tied for the top spot in the Western Highlands Conference, while the Mountaineers came to town with scores of supporters. The teams were evenly matched in the first quarter, when Burk, who finished the contest with 29 points, hit a pair of 3-pointers to set the tone for Owen.

The effort marked the 29th double-digit performance for Burk in 30 games, as the home team held a 38-32 advantage at the half.

With 19 points from junior guard Asante Martin and 12 points, 10 assists, 9 rebounds and 4 steals from senior point guard Eli Lewkowicz, Owen never trailed. A tenacious fourth quarter defensive effort fueled a late-game run, sealing the victory and a regular season sweep of Mitchell.

The Warhorses improved to 7-1 in the conference, setting the stage for 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 28, when they travel to Burnsville for a meeting with Mountain Heritage. The 12-2 Cougars, led by senior Jace Loven, have not lost a game at home this season.

Owen will return to its home court at 8 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 29, when it hosts Avery.

Photos of the Warhorses’ victory over the Mountaineers can be viewed in the gallery at the top of the page.