Boys HS Basketball: North Royalton Bears Dominate in 70-46 Win Against Cuyahoga Falls

By Gabby Ortiz

NORTH ROYALTON, OHIO – North Royalton High School hosted its Senior Night, and put on a show against the struggling Cuyahoga Falls Black Tigers. The Bears would go onto defeat the Black Tigers 70-46.

The Bears headed into this game looking to extend their win streak after defeating Normandy High School, and were successful executing their game plan. From the tip, the Bears were aggressive offensively and had no problems putting the ball in the basket. The Bears went on a 7-0 run to end the first quarter and never looked back.

The Black Tigers would make a small come back, and cut into the lead bringing the score within six to 25-19. Although, the Black Tigers played aggressive on defense in the first half of the game, they just could not keep up with the Bears offense. The Bears would increase their lead to ten points bringing the score to 30-21 at halftime.

The Bears would keep their foot on the gas and explode offensively. They would go on another scoring run to increase their lead to 41-27 heading into the fourth quarter. The Black Tigers had good shot selections, but was not able to capitalize and catch momentum.

It was just an all-around bad night for the Black Tigers who came into this game with a 3-11 record. The Black Tigers currently are second to last place in the Suburban League standings and will not be in contention for the OHSAA Playoffs.

For Senior Night, Bears Head Coach, Nick Lapsevich played his senior players, and allowed them to finish out the fourth quarter. With the help of the senior players, the Bears were able to run away with the lead and close out the Black Tigers 70-46. Senior Forward, Adam Barrett led all scorers with 14 points. Senior Guard, Evan Scott scored 8 points, while Guard, Christian Limer and Forward, Jordan Garland added 11 points.

The Bears are ranked fifth in the Strongsville District Bracket for the OHSAA Playoffs, and will play their first playoff game of the season at home, against twelve ranked Lincoln West High School, Wednesday February 28 @ 7:00pm. If the Bears win against Lincoln West High School they will face the winner of the fourth ranked Lakewood High School versus Thirteenth ranked Max S. Hayes game on March 3rd at 7:00pm.