The fate of its season was already decided by the time the Wright City boys basketball team adjusted to its opponent’s pressure on Monday.

The Wildcats succumbed to an insurmountable early lead, falling to top-seeded O’Fallon Christian during the opening round of the Class 3 District 8 Tournament at Winfield High School.

“Their pressure was a little too much for us tonight,” said Coach Ryan Benz. “We had a hard time keeping control of the ball and taking care of it with their pressure.”

The fast pace of the game buried Wright City in a 17-6 deficit after one quarter, despite strong individual performances.

“Defensively, I thought we did a pretty good job in the first quarter,” said Benz. “They got a couple of fast break opportunities when we struggled taking care of the ball.”

When they were able to establish their offense, the Wildcats experienced success beyond the perimeter.

“We were able to score a lot off traps,” said Benz. “They went to trap and we were able to kick it out to the open shooter.”

Branden Contreras knocked down three treys to lead the Wildcats, while Brennan Logan hit two from downtown.

“Brennan played really well offensively for us,” said Benz.

“Defensively, they ran a full court man and really pressured the ball,” said Benz. “They played good tight man and went to zone press a couple of times. When we beat that with ease, they went back to what was working for them.”

Wright City trailed 30-13 at the break, before sparking a tremendous run into the second half.

“Finally, in the third quarter we started getting a few things going and were actually running with them, getting up and down the floor,” said Benz. “They’re very athletic, but we were able to match up.”

The Wildcats trailed 57-45 heading into the final period.

“We got the ball down into the post with Christian (Ebersohl), and he was able to finish down there,” said Benz. “He did a great job getting into good position and going up strong with the ball to make some really nice moves.”

Senior Dillon Seabaugh paced Wright City with 11 points, while Contreras added 10.

Seniors J.J. McRoberts and Le’Noir each netted seven points.

“J.J. did a really good job of taking care of the ball,” said Benz. “When he got the ball, he was stronger with it and got some opportunities to get a couple buckets.”

Despite the setback, Benz was pleased with his team’s effort. As a team, the Wildcats went 12-for-16 from the free-throw line.

“A lot of guys stepped up, including Le’Noir, who had a really good third and fourth quarter,” said Benz. “He took the ball to the rim hard and took care of it. He had a couple of drives and took some fouls.”

The Wildcats finished the season 13-12.