With Derek Willis watching from the bench, No. 2 Bullitt East defeated seventh-ranked Hopkinsville 78-65 at the Marshall County Hoop Fest on Saturday.
Willis, a UK signee regarded by state coaches as the best player in Kentucky, missed the contest as he served the remainder of his two-game suspension, which was a result of his ejection in Monday’s season opener against Lafayette. Willis wore a red and black jumpsuit and sat at the end of the Bullitt East bench Saturday.
The 6-foot-9 senior forward also missed Thursday’s victory over fifth-ranked Henry Clay. He was ejected from the Lafayette game for arguing with officials.
“It’s obviously not fun,” Willis said. “I’m really disappointed in myself, and the way I carried myself in that game. I’m just ready to get back on the floor.
Bellarmine signee Rusty Troutman led Bullitt East with 28 points Saturday. The 6-foot-5 guard is averaging 26.3 points through the first three games of the season.
Bullitt East hosts No. 25 Butler on Tuesday. Willis will be eligible to return for that game.
