Euclid, Ohio - Harold Daugherty gymnasium hosted a matchup between the Warrensville Tigers (1-1) and the Euclid Panthers (0-2). The Tigers’ set the tone early with defensive intensity and earned a dominant victory.
Head Coach Demetrius Johnson was happy with his team’s effort defensively.
“It all starts with our defensive pressure. I thought my boys came out really locked in and followed the game plan. I thought we did a great job closing out, beating them to their spots and just playing together,” said Johnson.
Warrensville swarmed Euclid in the first half with their full court pressure. They were able to force well over ten turnovers and Euclid couldn’t get anything going.
The Tigers took advantage of Euclid’s early miscues and got into the paint consistently. Euclid hung around early. A three from Jayden Basie cut the lead to 9-5, three minutes remained in the first. Warrensville closed the quarter leading 16-7.
Warrensville seized major control of the game in the second quarter, outsourcing Euclid 23-8. Their depth started to show as they got major bench contributions from Wayne Chappell. They forced seven turnovers in the period, while continuing to dominate the paint.
Chappell was huge for the Tigers in the second with his efforts on the glass. He got several second chance put backs during their 9-0 run. They led 33-24 with three minutes to go, they closed the half leading 39-15.
Thai Duncan started to find his rhythm in the third scoring seven points, but Euclid still couldn't take care of the ball. The Tigers forced three quick turnovers early, resulting in buckets for CJ Williams and Noah Chambers.
Duncan got going after he hit a pull up jumper midway through the quarter. A few possessions later he fought through contact for an and one layup and followed it up with a floater in transition. Warrensville went into the fourth with full control leading 52-30.
Duncan continued to provide offense for the Panthers but it was too late. He had back to back breakaway dunks around the three minute mark. His baskets cut the lead to 62-43. Warrensville ended the game on top 66-52.
The Tigers will be back in action at home Dec. 12 versus Bedford. Tip off is 7 p.m.
Scoring Leaders:
Wayne Chappell - 15 points
Zyaire Chaney- 13 points
Thai Duncan- 18 points
Jayden Basie- 6 points
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