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The Reedley Pirates
survived a tough challenge from a scrappy McLane Highlanders squad
to win tonight's NYL match-up 73-58. The win improved
Reedley's record to 18-3 overall and 6-1 in NYL action.
The Pirates arrived
at the home gym anxious to put on a strong performance on the night
where Coach Darren Minami's nine seniors were to be honored.
But things didn't look good when cracked benches were discovered in
the famed Pirate Pit. This forced the closure of the popular
student seating section and decidedly dulled the atmosphere in the
gym.
McLane took advantage
of the melancholy environment to earn a 15-12 advantage after
one quarter. The Pirates fought back in the second quarter and
took the lead at 27-25 when Jon Wallen converted two free throws.
Abel Lucca completed the Pirates 9-2 run to end the half when
he sunk a long three point shot from the left side with two seconds
remaining. The Pirates led at intermission 34-27.
Wallen's eight third
quarter points helped the Pirates lengthen the margin to 54-37 after
three quarters. The senior added six more free throws in the
final quarter as Minami's team eased to the finish line.
Team co-captain Jon
Lepp commented after the game that "we didn't come out with
intensity but Wallen kept us going. He played one of the best
games I've seen." By night's end Wallen had tallied 29
points, including 10 of 12 from the charity stripe.
Abel Lucca scored 14,
12 of those coming on four shots from beyond the arc. Colin
Hofer added 12 to bolster the Pirates' cause.
The Pirates played
without Pepijn Dekker, who continued to rest his sore knee.
Lepp played while nursing his aching back. The senior declared
he will be at full strength by next week.
The Pirates next two
games will be on the road, at Fresno on Tuesday and at Edison on
Thursday. This Saturday's game with Selma in the Reedley
College gym has been cancelled.
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