GSL boys: University, LC pull upsets
The Greater Spokane League boys basketball playoff picture cleared up at one end of the standings, but there’s still life for several others following Tuesday’s turn of events.
Two upsets eliminated any suspense surrounding second place but created further drama in the race for the final two District 8 playoff berths.
University’s 65-46 shocker at Shadle Park not only clinched second outright for Mead, but kept slim Titans playoff hopes alive.
Suddenly torrid Lewis and Clark took some of the air out of U-Hi’s balloon, however, when it roared out of the starting blocks in the first quarter and rolled past Gonzaga Prep 65-49. It was the Tigers’ third straight victory.
“We’re going in one direction and not worrying about anyone or anything else,” said LC coach Jeff Norton. “We’ll see what happens.”
The Tigers remained tied with Central Valley (both 8-11) for fifth place, a game ahead of U-Hi (7-12). On Thursday, LC hosts Mead, CV is home against NC, and the Titans are at Ferris in GSL finales.
In other games, despite squandering substantial first-quarter leads, Mead defeated North Central 60-55 and CV beat East Valley 59-48. Ferris moved to within one game of a perfect GSL season with its 58-39 victory over visiting Mt. Spokane.
University 65, Shadle Park 46: The pressing Titans forced the Highlanders (13-6) into numerous turnovers to take a 21-12 lead. U-Hi built a 15-point halftime advantage and its lead was never fewer than 12 points. Although Shadle contained scoring leader Mason Johnson, it couldn’t stop Ryan Dixon, who scored 21 points on 10 field goals. Guard James Seely added 13. It was the second game back for U-Hi post Nate Martin since he missed seven because of a stress fracture.
Lewis and Clark 65, Gonzaga Prep 49: Solid defense and rebounding helped the host Tigers to a 17-4 lead over the Bullpups (who ended their regular season 12-8). Norton said that the process of the team’s learning to play without injured point guard Matt Proost took longer than he expected. Then post Skyler Kliewer was lost four games ago. But Philip Penberthy, who scored 12 points, has been solid in his absence, Nick Hardrick (16 points) remained steady and sophomore guard Taylor Eglet (11) had his second straight strong game.
Mead 60, North Central 55: The Panthers (15-4) led 18-8 after a quarter but had to break a halftime tie before subduing the Indians (4-13). Lucas Ashe hit a 3-pointer in the fourth quarter for a six-point lead and Mead was 10 for 10 at the free-throw line. Ashe scored 19.
Central Valley 59, East Valley 48: Guards, including William Davis and Kevin Cameron, carried the Bears over the host Knights (3-14). CV led 22-9 after a quarter, but by just a basket at halftime. Cameron scored the first three baskets of the second half to get the team going. He finished with 14 points. Sophomore Davis led with 16.
Ferris 58, Mt. Spokane 39: The visiting Wildcats (7-10) missed their first 10 shots of the second half after already trailing the Saxons (19-0) 28-8 at halftime.