Sports

Beverly Buzzer Beater Downs Blue in OT

The Big Blue surged into the lead with seconds to go in overtime but a Beverly jumper near the top of the key ended the game 66-65.

 

Big Blue combined consistent defensive pressure with offensive runs Wednesday in a scrappy basketball game against the Beverly Panthers.

In the end, Beverly forward Cam Rogers came free cutting across the top of the key and launched a jumper as the final seconds in overtime ticked off.

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He drained the shot giving the Panthers a 66-65 victory.

Still there was much to like about the Big Blue's game.

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They played aggressive defense, pounded the boards and fought for loose balls.

Coach Justin Fucile, disappointed after the game, said the team prides itself on playing tough defense.

And it did so throughout the game Wednesday.

Even when their offense stalled and they were not hitting shots in the first half, the team's tough D kept them within range.

They also got poised play and ball-handling from freshman point guard Joey Ragusa, the coach said.

And big numbers and a consistent presence down low from Chad Nelson, 20 points, he said.

And a huge effort off the bench from Stephen Bowers, 19 points, he said.

In a key offensive possession, with the game in the balance, Ragusa chased down a loose ball and put it in the hands of senior Dan Trentsch.

Trentsch drove from the left elbow to the paint and looped a nice pass into the low post to Chad Nelson who went up clean for two.

The scoring followed strong defensive stands by Swampscott.

Swampscott is 3-3 in the conference and 3-6 overall.

Beverly is 6-2 overall.

Swampscott returns to action Friday against Revere in the Swampscott gym.


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