The NJCAA's 7th ranked Lakers played host to the Bryant & Stratton Bobcats tonight in the semi-finals of the OCCAC/Region 12 District C tournament and came away with an 81-57 victory. With the win, the Lakers improved to 22-1 (11-1) on the season. The game was very competitive early as the teams traded baskets. Slowly Lakeland began to emerge and held a 6-8 point advantage for several minutes in the first half before taking off for a commanding 46-33 lead at the break. In the half, the Lakers were led by Chaze Harris who scored 12 points and Jaidon Lipscomb who added 10 points. Landon Tillman (8 points) and Kyle Jackson (7 points) also had strong offensive halves. With that, the defense is really what got the Lakers rolling. Chaze Harris and Noah Berry controlled the inside play while Tillman, Lipscomb, EJ Hubbert, Datrey Long, and Blake Bluitt controlled the perimeter. The Lakers were able to successfully pressure the Bobcats shooters and when they drove the lane their shots were frequently blocked or altered by the inside pair.
In the second half, it was more pressure defense from the Lakers that led to some quick offensive attacks. Ansy Oulare came in and scored 6 quick points while Keith Germain scored 9 points in the half including 2 thunderous dunks. Once the Lakers expanded their lead, they coasted to the victory. Chaze Harris finished with 16 points while Jaidon Lipscomb tallied 15 points. Kyle Jackson and Landon Tillman both finished their nights with 10 points each. Keith Germain added 9 total points and both Datrey Long and EJ Hubbert finished with 7 points each.
Hunter's Highlights: "It was the next step in the process of attaining our goal - which is to win the District tournament and qualify for Nationals. I was pleased with our team effort - we have to turn the page quickly though as we have another tough test for us coming up."
Next Up: The Lakers will host the Edison State Chargers on Saturday in a 1:00 pm tip. Edison beat Hocking College 74-73 to earn a trip to the finals. The winner of this game advances to the National Tournament held in Danville, IL March 15-19.
