Hunter’s 26 carries Tritons to 68-53 win
Senior Rodney Hunter continued his string of 20-point performances Thursday night, connecting for a game-high 26 in Mariner’s 68-53 victory over Sarasota Riverview at Frank Morris Gymnasium.
The game, originally scheduled for a 7:30 p.m. tipoff, was delayed 45 minutes by bus issues for Riverview.
“It took us a while to adjust and take control of the game,” said Tritons coach James Harris.
The Tritons led by 10 points at halftime and stretch out the margin to win by 15.
Hunter also pulled down 10 rebounds to finish with a double-double. Jacob Tracey added 11 points and Jahmel Myers grabbed nine boards.
“Finishing games is our biggest obstacle,” said Harris. “We did not make some smart decisions down the stretch, but it helps us get reach for Island Coast tomorrow night.”
The Tritons (19-5) host the Gators (13-11) Friday as they go looking for their 20th victory of the season. It would be the first time since 2003 that the Tritons achieved the 20-win mark, and give them an undefeated season on their home floor.
Gators coach Greg Coleman is calling the matchup the unofficial city championship, considering both teams are unbeaten against other city opponents.
“No matter what the record, Island Coast is always a tough game,” said Harris.
Charlotte 63, Island Coast 52: Island Coast tried to erase a 22-point deficit in the final three minutes Thursday night using a combination of defensive/offensive lineups and strategic fouling, but came up short against Charlotte.
The Gators were outscored 22-15 in the first quarter, 10-8 in the second and 13-12 in the third to enter the final period trailing 45-35, but was unable to stop the bleeding. Charlotte put the game away by knocking down a dozen three-pointers overall.
Devan Heroux-Creus topped the Gators with a game-high 20 points with Matt Jeannelas adding nine points and 10 rebounds. Florian Thomas handed out nine assists.
The Gators (13-11) finish the season Friday night at Mariner in a matchup of unbeaten teams against Cape opponents.
Girls Basketball
District 4A-11 Championship: Making its inaugural appearance in a district championship game Thursday night, Oasis absorbed a beating from stalwart Dunbar 75-20.
“We were blown out in the first half,” said Sharks coach Sam Wood. “We came back some in the second half, but we were like deer in the headlights. We were just happy to be here and play one of the best teams in the state. It was our first championship game and we were not ready for that experience.”
The Sharks (14-10) had no player reach double digits in scoring. Jordan Westendorf led the team with nine points and Samantha Wood added five.
“We were only outscored by three points in the second half,” said Wood. “I was proud of the way our girls bounced back and kept fighting. They were all excited to be there.”
The Sharks make their first appearance in the regional playoffs next Thursday.