Hardwood Heroes
Buckeyes Secure First Round Victory Over Peebles
By: Sam Nolan
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BUCHTEL, Ohio- The Nelsonville-York Buckeyes (15-8) hosted the Peebles Indians (9-14) for an exciting Division III first round tournament matchup. The Buckeyes pulled through, winning 44-34.
The first quarter was a slugfest for both offenses. Neither team could light an offensive spark, and as a result, the quarter ended with a low score of 8-7, Peebles. Turnovers were a big issue for both squads, and it was nothing but defense up until the second.
In the second, the tides completely turned, as both teams found that spark they were looking for. The paint was open, and everyone was taking advantage of it. Alec Thompson was a huge factor in the Buckeyes claiming the lead heading into the half. There was no clear separation between the two teams, however, as the quarter came to a 24-23 NY close.
The third quarter was unlike any other, as NY held Peebles to 0 points the entire period. Offensively, however, the Buckeyes struggled to get things moving again. The boys scored a mere 4 points, making it a 28-23 game heading into the final quarter.
Right out of the gate, NY freshman Cam Sullivan drove to the hoop 3 times, and did not miss once. He brought the Buckeyes some much needed scoring that allowed them to pull away down the stretch. NY dominated the glass the entire fourth quarter too, resulting in a 44-34 final in favor of the Buckeyes.
The key to NY pulling away with this one was limiting turnovers in the second half and outrebounding Peebles throughout the game. NY’s stifling defense has been the story all year long for the Buckeyes.
Keagan Swope said playing on his home court for the last time meant a lot to him. Swope said “We wanted give our all” referring to going out with a win on the home court.
Peebles season comes to a close with this tournament loss. As for Nelsonville-York, they face off against Minford on Saturday at 6:15 p.m. for a sectional final hosted by Jackson High School.