After losing 61-60 against the Lutheran North Crusaders in the state semi-finals, the Thayer Bobcats basketball team faced off against the Lafayette County Huskers on March 11, 2023, for third place. The Bobcats won 67-64.
History
It was a closely matched game, with a little bit of history behind it. Last year, Thayer lost to Lafayette County in the state semi-finals and instead got third place.This year, the Bobcats have gotten their revenge back.
First Half
Unlike in the semi-finals, the Bobcats were racking up the 3-pointers early on in the game. At the end of the first quarter, the score was 16-11 with the Bobcats in the lead. At the half, the Huskers were in the lead 33-30.
Third Quarter
The lead switched multiple times in the third quarter, but the Bobcats kept the lead most of the time. Thayer kept on getting a three-point lead only to lose it again. At the end of the quarter, the Bobcats were up 54-51.
Final Quarter
Throughout the game, Aidan Burns had several key blocked shots which helped the Bobcats. A couple times throughout the game, both teams were tied. With 0:44 left in the game, they were tied 64-64.
The Last Shot
As the clock kept ticking down with another overtime looming ahead, the Bobcats shot at the last moment. With roughly 0:01 left, Rowan Spencer of the Bobcats shot a 3-pointer and made it as the buzzer sounded. The referees consulted and put 1.5 seconds on the clock, but the Huskers were not able to make the shot. The game ended with the Bobcats winning 67-64.
Key Players
There were multiple key players in today’s win against the Huskers. Rowan Spencer of the Bobcats scored 32 points with six 3-pointers. Aidan Burns had several blocks, along with Mark Spencer.
3rd Place
While third place is not as good as first, next year is looking good for the Bobcats since they have no seniors this year. We’re looking to a great team and a great season next year!
State Winner
The 1st place winner of the Class 3 showdown was the [1]Central (New Madrid County) Eagles. They won 56-46 against the Lutheran North Crusaders.
Notes:
- ^https://www.facebook.com/NmcEagleNation (go back ↩)
