DACULA, Ga. - The Hebron Christian Men's Basketball team (3-1) had another exciting early-season battle on Tuesday, Nov. 18, defeating Morrow High School (3-2) 65-64, in a game that went down to the second to last shot of regulation.
The Lions started with the hot hand, immediately grabbing momentum with a 19-7 lead after the first quarter. This run was sparked by senior Devon McField, who hit three three-pointers in the frame, joined by seven points from freshman Zaiden Nelson.
Hebron continued to hold a double digit lead through the second quarter, but as time dwindled, Morrow's shooting grew stronger.
In the fourth quarter, still down, the Mustangs cut the lead to 62-59. Hebron combated the run with three more points, leaving Morrow with one final chance, which failed after the Mustangs converted just two points to fall by one.
"We knew (Morrow) was due for a run, I told the guys that 'if we win seven of these last 10 possessions, we win the game,' this meant that we would need to take care of the ball, get stops and make free throws," head coach Derrick Mason said. "We were able to do just enough against a very gritty and well-coached Morrow team."
Hebron's close victory is the team's third such matchup which was decided by six points or less, two of which the Lions won. However, this is the first victory where the Lions were on the wrong end of a lengthy comeback. In the previous wins, it was the Lions who battled back for the win.
"Both (situations) build character that will be needed as we press forward this season. Teams have to learn how to fight back in some games, and how to close it out in others. (Tuesday's) game gave us valuable experience," Mason said.
McField and Nelson were the scoring heroes for Hebron, the senior scoring 20 points (team-high), while adding seven rebounds, four assists and two steals. Nelson scored 17, with eight rebounds, five assists and four steals.
The two also combined for seven three-pointers, the majority of Hebron's 11 shots from deep.
Freshman Landon Crews also finished in double-figures, scoring 11. He also had four rebounds, one steal and one assist. Sophomore Brandyn Manning added nine points, while notching five assists, three rebounds and one steal.
The Lions will be back on the court this Saturday, Nov. 22, when they take on Mount Vernon in the Jared Cook Classic at North Gwinnett High School.
Mount Vernon is currently 2-0 with wins over Chamblee and Berkmar. Tip-off is set for 1:35 p.m.
