The Thayer Bobcats basketball team went up against the Helias Catholic Crusaders on January 26, 2024, in Bolivar, Missouri, for the Bolivar Liberator Tournament. Despite Thayer’s best efforts, Helias Catholic won the game 63-57.
First Half
In the first couple of minutes in the game, the Bobcats had trouble getting started, having several turnovers. At the end of the quarter, Helias Catholic was leading 15-9. With about one minute in the half, the Crusaders were up by 11 points. On one play, Devin Harrington (#3 for Bobcats) blocked a shot and passed the ball to Rowan Spencer (#2 for Bobcats), who made the point. The score at halftime was 32-21, with Helias Catholic leading.
Third Quarter
In the third quarter, Thayer was still trying to get closer to the lead. Easton Pitts (#1 for Bobcats) made a three-pointer for his team. With 3:11 in the quarter, the score was 42-29, with the Crusaders in the lead. Nearing the end of the quarter, Harrington made a steal and a block, with both being more points for Thayer from Aidan Burns (#12 for Bobcats) and Pitts. Before the quarter ended, Rowan Spencer made a three-pointer, making the score 47-38.
A Tight Game
In the fourth quarter, the Bobcats closed the gap. Harrington, Pitts, and Spencer collectively got 11 points in the first four minutes of the quarter. With Spencer’s three-pointer, Thayer went from a 15-point gap to tying the game. The game was close with both teams matching the other’s points. Although the Bobcats tried their best to get the win, they couldn’t get it. Helias Catholic won 63-57. Harrington and Pitts had a great second half. Harrington made 11 of his 15 points in the second half, and Pitts made 12 of his 17 points in the second half.
Next Game
Today is the final day of the Bolivar Liberator Tournament. Thayer will face Strafford in the third place game at 1:00 pm on January 27, 2024.
