Cougars had an early twenty point lead in the first half, dominating the Alumni with their intense defense. In the third period, three key Alumni charged a mighty comeback, outscoring the younger Cougars 26-18. 2010 graduate Jordan Webb, class of 2017 Kia Smith, and graduate in 2018 Harris Menetre were the main three to spark the high scoring stanza. The Alumni still trailed 49-46 but the momentum definitely shifted.
The fourth frame was a seesaw battle and the Alumni finally took their first lead of the contest late in the period. Down 52-53 with less than two minutes remaining, Aidan Briggs connected on a three pointer to reclaim the lead 55-53. Alumni answered with an offensive put back to tie the game. After a missed shot, Alumni were fouled and missed two free throws. The teenage Cougars rebounded the second miss and ran the break. Reese Bentley converted on a layup for a 57-55 edge. The next Alumni possession was a missed shot and Tim Mattioli skied high for the rebound. With less than fifteen seconds to go, the Alumni were forced to foul. After two fouls to get in the bonus, Mattioli converted on one of two attempts, but that gave the Alumni a chance down just three points (55-58). The Alumni heaved up a three and missed, but got their own rebound, kicked it out for another three at the buzzer only for the ball to rim in and out. What better way to finish Homecoming 2020!
Game Notes:
Aidan Briggs led all scorers with 20 points and added over 10 rebounds.
Reese Bentley put in 12 points, including that key go ahead winner.
Tim Mattioli scored six of his eight points in the second half.
Shane Hendrickson played great defense and scored 7 points.
The Cougars have now won seven in a row. They will play Al Falah on Wednesday for the final game of the regular season. The AAC playoffs begin next Monday @ AASD.
Go Cougars!
