Sports
Buckeyes Thwart Spartans Upset Attempt
< < Back to buckeyes-thwart-spartans-upset-attemptTonight was a close call for the Nelsonville-York Buckeyes against Alexander, but the Bucks defeated the Spartans at The Alley, 48-40. After coming off a loss to Amanda-Clearcreek, they were looking for redemption. Smart ball movement and aggressive defense all contributed to a Buckeye victory.
The first quarter was all about defense. Many outside shots were taken, and the lane was never attacked. There were three turnovers from each side just in the first quarter. Braden Jones (16 points) had all the points for Alexander in the first quarter. The quarter ended tied 8-8.
The Buckeyes slacked in the second quarter, racking in only nine points, with seven coming from Clint Handa. The Spartans spread out their offense and attacked the paint, getting 14 points in the quarter. Mason Chapman and Jones ran the offense the rest of the half, drawing fouls and hitting lay up after lay up. The half ended with Alexander in the lead, 22-17.
After halftime, the Buckeyes came out as a different team. They were able to shut down Jones in the third quarter, allowing the Spartans to score just four points. The Buckeyes played smart offense. They did not rush their offense and waited for their shot. Josh Fayette (15 points) ran the offense, and, with the help of Emmitt Reed, who has four steals and two blocks, were able to shut the Spartans. The Buckeyes led 36-26 at the end of the quarter.
The Buckeyes were 18-of-22 from the line and had 21 rebounds. The Spartans were 10-of-15 from the line and had 26 rebounds.
The Buckeyes also had 10 steals and five blocks, whereas the Spartans had 10 turnovers. With a good road win against a huge rival, N-Y is looking for another win when they take on the Vinton County Vikings on December 14.