In a staggering upset, the Lakewood Boys defeated Division I powerhouse Mentor, 61-58, in what is one of their most impressive wins this century. The essential element was Lakewood's unlocking of the Mentor press, scoring numerous lay-ups after beating the pressure. Key to that was Riley Verderber, who scored only six points but was the best player on the floor tonight, breaking the press via straight line drives and distributing pin-point passes. The offense ran through Riley, who also led both teams in rebounds with 9.
Lakewood's leading scorer was LaMar Wilson (16), who, as usual, was a great finisher. Nathan Bruwer had 11 before fouling out, and had possibly the biggest basket of the game, a late three pointer that helped Lakewood regain the lead and break the Cardinal momentum.
Point guard Rory Chanter, under siege all night from the relentless Cardinal press, held up well, minimized turnovers and scored 10. Guard KaVontah Swain, a superb defender, had several steals and maintained consistent pressure on Mentor ball-handlers. He led a great team defensive effort that contained the high-flying Cardinal offense.
Three reserves contributed significant minutes and solid all-around play. Harper Carroll scored 2, Jackson Comer had 3 and Liam McGann had 8. Without Liam's defense, rebounding and scoring--including two clutch free throws in the last minute--it's doubtful Lakewood pulls off the upset.
It took a great game plan, solid execution, and mental toughness to defeat Mentor tonight. There is no way to do this game justice, but one story might help. Lakewood lead by 10 at half, even thought Mentor had scored the last four points. The Cardinals roared back in the 3rd, and took the lead with 4 minutes remaining. This is the time when upsets go to die. But, once again, Lakewood beat the press, LaMar finished, and the Rangers never trailed again.
The Cleveland West Conference Champions Rangers host Amherst on March 3rd at 7:00 pm. Hope to see you there.
The Lakewood Rangers are one team, from one town, that doesn't know when to quit. Long Live Lakewood.