On a frigid winter's night, the Freedom Eagles faced the Gar-Field Indians at home. This contest proved extremely competitive as both squads battled hard for a win in district play, determined to place themselves in the conversation for a district title.
In the 1st quarter, both teams played at a very fast pace and high intensity. Players showed little fatigue as they ran up and down the court trying to make buckets on the fast break. Both sides committed some sloppy fouls to start the game. The opening quarter expired with the score tied at eight.
In the 2nd, both teams were still committing some bad fouls, and the speed of the game slowed tremendously. Whenever Gar-Field got the opportunity however, they pushed the ball up the court with the intention of re-establishing the breakneck place seen in the first quarter. With one minute left on the clock, the Eagles held the ball to get the last shot. With 20 ticks left on the clock, they started to run their play but were unable to sink the last shot of the half. Regardless, at the end of the half, Freedom led 21-19.
In the 3rd, both teams played great basketball. Each knocked down big shots and played outstanding defense. Gar-Field started the half playing a half-court trap defense which was very effective and caused some Freedom turnovers. On the other side of the court, Freedom played a full-court press which was troublesome for the Gar-Field offense. Both teams also played a conservative style of offense by slowing the tempo of the game and running the set plays their coaches drew up. At the end of the third quarter, Gar-Field was leading 33-31.
In the 4th quarter, the intensity was palpable as both teams were battling to take the lead. The game came down to the wire with both teams in the bonus and willing to foul with the hope their opponent would miss free-throws. In the end, Gar-Field made their free throws and took home the win 46-43.
