Russia 3rd Quarter Runs Doom Botkins Boys
PIQUA - The Botkins boys basketball team endured a tough third quarter and lost 53-38 to sixth-ranked Shelby County League rival Russia in the Div. IV southwest sectional finals at Piqua Friday night.
The game was tied at intermission, but the Raiders began the second half on a 6-0 run to forge ahead, 25-19. Russia then authored a 5-0 spurt later in the period to help build a commanding 14-point cushion after three quarters.
Russia took the second half 34-19 to win by 15.
“We played a great first half,” said Botkins head coach Phil Groves. “Those two back-toback runs really proved to be the difference in the game.”
The Trojans trailed just 9-8 after the first period, but Botkins pulled into a 19-19 tie by halftime. Collin Doseck scored all seven of his points for the Trojans in the first half. But then Russia blew the game open with the 20-6 third quarter.
The Raiders led 39-25 heading to the fourth period, which they won 14-13 by sinking nine of 14 foul shots. Botkins senior Carter Pleiman tallied 13 points in his final game. J.J. Meyer contributed nine markers on three triples, two of which he canned in the final stanza. Jordan Herzog chipped in with six markers.
Senior Brandt Boerger also played his final game for the Trojans.
Brayden Monnin led Russia with 15 points. Raiders Zane Shappie and Hayden Quinter contributed 10 points apiece.
Raider Braylon Cordonnier tallied five of his seven points in the third period as seven Russia players scored in the decisive stanza.
The Trojans finished their season 15-10 with the defeat.
Russia improved to 22-3 after the win. The Raiders advanced to the district finals with the victory.
“Thank you to our seniors for their dedication and commitment,” said Groves. “Our program wouldn’t be where it is today without them. Carter and Brandt are both great young men with bright futures ahead of them.”
Botkins found the bottom of the net on 10 two-pointers, and splashed five triples for 15 total field goals. The Trojans converted three of seven foul shots (43 percent).
Russia connected on 14 two-point goals and they also drained five triples for 19 total baskets. The Raiders converted 10 of 16 from the charity stripe (63 percent). The Raiders won all three meetings this season vs. Botkins.