by Brian Turrel
The Sumner Sabres boys basketball team lost a defensive struggle against Blue Valley Southwest in the second round of the Spring Hill invitational tournament. The Timberwolves won 35-34, coming back from a nine-point halftime deficit. Sumner had a chance to win on its final possession, but turned the ball over on a controversial charge call.
Sumner built a first-half lead with dribble penetration, probing the perimeter with a motion offense to get an open driving lane for Kyun Jackson or open outside shot for De’Auan McClaine. Sumner led 24-15 at halftime.
In the second half, Southwest closed off the driving lanes, sometimes switching to a zone defense to limit the Sabres’ penetration. Sumner had some free throw opportunities off Southwest’s aggressive defense, but converted only two of seven second-half chances.
Down by one with seven seconds remaining, Sumner junior guard Donell Bagley drove to the basket, looking for a basket or a foul call. The referee ruled that the Timberwolves defender was in position and called an offensive foul, ending Sumner’s bid for the game winner.
McClaine led the Sabres with 13 points, all scored in the first half. Jackson scored 9 before fouling out with two minutes remaining.
Sumner will play in the final round of the tournament on Friday afternoon at 3 p.m., facing the Veritas Christian School of Lawrence.
