A plodding first half by both teams lead to a 17-10 halftime lead by the Pirates. An impressive performance by junior Jerroda Briscoe led the way for the Pirates. Briscoe’s 16 points (10 in the second half), 8 rebounds and 3 blocks continued to charge BCHS throughout the game.
Struggling to find points, the Largo Packers found sparks in senior Julian Cooney (14 points & 8 rebounds) and junior Zhahidi Robinson (9 points & 8 rebounds) who combined to score 21 of Largo’s 34 second half points.
Trading baskets and the lead late in the fourth quarter, the Class 7A District 9 foes were separated by a three point play made by Boca Ciega’s Alonzo Carter (7 points) with six seconds remaining. With 3 seconds remaining, Largo missed an open three point attempt in the right corner sealing the 45-44 Pirates victory.
For Largo, D-I football recruit Bobby Roundtree scored 4 points to go along with his 8 rebounds and 2 blocks.
For Boca Ciega, senior guard Trevor Carrier scored 8 points. Team captain Nate Larkins scored 5 points.
Up next, #10 Largo (10-5, 4-1) will host Northeast (8-6, 2-3).
Friday, Boca Ciega (7-3, 5-1) will host Clearwater (5-9, 2-3).