Despite three frustrating losses at holiday tournaments earlier this season, the Marion Patriots appear to hitting their stride at just the right time. The latest evidence came Tuesday night at Fidelity Bank Arena, where the Patriots (13-3 overall, 2-0 5A East) overwhelmed Nettleton 69-40. Marion junior guard Ryan Forrest poured in a game-high 37 points with three rebounds, while junior Jayden Forrest, cousin to Ryan, hit for 12 points and a team-high seven assists and three rebounds. Junior Donnie Cheers scored nine points and pulled down nine boards. Nettleton senior guard Brandon Anderson scored 16 points while Davares Whitaker hit for nine, and J.T. Turner logged eight. Marion outrebounded Nettleton 34-16 for the game, limiting the Raiders to just four rebounds in the second half. “The whole plan for the game to us was about rebounding the ball,” said Marion coach David Clark. “We didn't rebound it particularly well early in the game, but we focused on that in the second half and did a much better job.” Marion limited Nettleton to just six of 18 shooting after halftime, while forcing six turnovers. As Nettleton struggled from the field, Marion canned 16 of 21 shots after the break. Ryan Forrest started the offensive onslaught early against Nettleton, scoring eight first-quarter points in a diverse array of ways. The top recruit hit a three-pointer, a pair of layups, and a free throw. Marion led 13-8 after the first frame. Marion connected on six of nine field goals in the second quarter, as Ryan Forrest scored Marion's first 14 points before Jayden Forrest finished the half by scoring the last four. The Pats led 31-19 at halftime. The Pats took their first 20-point lead of the game (43-21) in the third quarter when Ryan Forrest converted a three-point play at the 3:50 mark. Marion led 49-32 after three. A pair of Ryan Forrest dunks highlighted a Marion fourth-quarter run that helped the Pats pull away for the 69-40 victory. “Ryan deserves it (this performance),” said Clark. “He's been working hard and putting in the extra work. The sky is the limit for him.” Marion continues 5A East play on Friday night at Searcy. Varsity games will be livestreamed on MarionPatriots.com and on the Marion Patriots Activities Network mobile app.