It’s often said that on occasion, it’s better to be lucky than good. On Tuesday night, the Fremont Ross boys’ basketball team experienced that firsthand in a gut-wrenching overtime loss to the Napoleon Wildcats.
The Little Giants controlled much of the game with unselfish play, building a comfortable lead late into the fourth quarter. Up by nine with just over three minutes remaining, Ross appeared to be in command. However, uncharacteristic mistakes and costly turnovers allowed Napoleon to inch their way back.
Despite the late-game surge by the Wildcats, Ross still clung to a three-point lead with seconds remaining. Napoleon, however, managed to get off a shot that found the bottom of the net – tying the game and sending it into overtime.
In the extra period, Napoleon jumped out to a sizeable lead, but credit to the Little Giants for their resilience. They fought back, closing the gap and eventually taking a two-point lead after clutch free throws from Braylon Jordan.
With time winding down, Napoleon had one final possession. A contested three-point attempt banked off the backboard and into the net, giving the Wildcats a one-point lead. Ross had one last attempt, but their final shot fell short, sealing a heartbreaking defeat.
Though the loss stung, the Little Giants walked away hungry for redemption. They’ll look to bounce back as they host Toledo Whitmer on Friday night.