TALLMADGE, Ohio- The Kent Roosevelt Roughriders traveled to Tallmadge to take on the Blue Devils in the nightcap of the girls & boys doubleheader. Kent beat Tallmadge 48-41 in a highly anticipated league matchup. Tallmadge had won the previous four matchups between the two. Jeremiah Lepp starred with 12 points making four threes. Jaden Denninson tagged along with nine points and a very solid defensive performance.
Tallmadge and Kent immediately start a defensive battle. Neither team scored for the first two minutes. Kents Jeremiah Lepp got hot early going 3/3 from deep and scoring nine of his 12 points on the night.
“We came out fast. I really think our quick scoring energy with our team can get to anyone,” said Lepp. “Early on I got some open shots and was able to make some much needed big plays.”
Kent and Tallmadge continued to go back and forth throughout the second quarter. Tallmadge and Kent had excellent ball movement taking their time and getting good smart shots off. Kent was able to hit a very important three to help then regain their lead and take a 26-22 lead at half.
Tallmadge was able to take control in the third as they took a 37-31 lead. Kent was able to claw their way back making the score 39-37. Kent and Tallmadge each had their moments on offense and defense in the third quarter. Both teams were playing their hardest when it mattered most.
Kent showed lots of resilience in the fourth quarter. They took a 42-39 lead that they would hold onto for the win. Tallmadge tried to fight back, even taking three straight shots from deep in one possession before Kent got the rebound, but it was too little, too late for the Blue Devils.
“Our team’s resilience is unmatched,” said coach Black. “These boys come out here looking for a dog fight every night. Losing the past four games against Tallmadge and being able to come out here and do what they did tonight was special.”
Kent was able to hit a few more key shots to close out the win. Kent ended the game with the ball when the final buzzer went off.
Tallmadge will travel to Copley next Tuesday December 19th while Kent will host Revere next Tuesday December 19th.