VANDALIA — In its first tournament experience in Division I, Bellefontaine showed it could hang with the big boys.
Following a thrilling victory against seventh-seeded Northmont in the sectional opener Saturday, the Chiefs gave a strong Springboro team everything it could handle here Wednesday.
Bellefontaine pulled even with the third-seeded Panthers midway through the fourth quarter, but Springboro was able to squeeze out a 51-45 victory in a sectional semifinal.
“The effort was excellent,” said Bellefontaine head coach Henry Stolly. “All we ever ask of our kids is that they give their best and play together as a team, and they certainly did that tonight.”
The Chiefs were seeded 18th for the sectional tournament, but played at a much higher level than many expected.
“We play a very challenging non-league schedule to help prepare ourselves for the tournament,” said Stolly. “Our kids were not fazed at all. They played with a lot of confidence and they believed in themselves.”
|
Bellefontaine’s Jack Clement puts up a shot during the second half of Wednesday’s Division I sectional tournament game against Springboro in Vandalia. (EXAMINER PHOTO | MATT HAMMOND) |
For the full story and game results, pick up a copy of Thursday’s Bellefontaine Examiner.
CLICK HERE to subscribe.
WEB EDITION STARTING AT $9.50 FOR 5 WEEKS!