Carson propels past rival Douglas in 51-46 senior night victory
It was a senior night to remember at Carson High, as a total of 6 seniors stormed the Tom Andreasen Court Friday at Morse Burley Gymnasium in Carson City, capping off their season with a 51-46 Senator victory over the rival Douglas Tigers.
In the girls basketball matchup, Douglas won 45 to 25.
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While Douglas jumped out to an early 8-6 first quarter lead, it was Trent Robison who made his presence felt on the defensive end for Carson. Swatting two shots against the glass and soaring for countless rebounds.
The Carson combo of Abel Carter and Derek Barry helped kickstart the offense into full-speed, the two of them combining for 11 points in the 2nd. But the inside presence of Douglas forwards Ian Ozolins and Andrew Collins kept the Senators’ lead to within 6 points, making the score 24-18 at the break.
Carter stole the spotlight both on-and-off the floor, as he and Lauren Lemburg were crowned Winterfest King and Queen during the halftime coronation.
The 3rd quarter displayed more of the physical, gritty play that kept any offensive momentum at a minimum. But Carson continued to attack the Tigers inside, finding easy points at the free-throw line from Robison and guard Johnny Randle. Heading into the fourth, the Senators built a comfortable 33-24 lead.
What looked to be an easy victory down the stretch for Carson completely turned upside-down, as turnovers fueled a ferocious comeback for Douglas. A reverse layup from forward Jason Gray trimmed the Senators lead to 4 points with 1:07 left. Dawson Lamb proceeded to swish two free-throws at the line making it a 46-40 Carson lead.
The Douglas crowd made their voices heard after an astonishing four-point play from Austin Clutts which made the score 46-44 with 26 ticks remaining. Carson responded on the ensuing possession with a layup and the foul from Barry. Bringing the rowdy Carson fans right back to their feet screaming and hollering.
Senators fans in attendance rushed the floor in excitement after the horn sounded, as the Senators took down their bitter rivals.
After the win, Barry described the season as a whole.
“We went through many good and bad stretches throughout the season,” he said. “But we stuck together as a team and that is all that matters.”
After a long season, Carter explained the impact of the victory.
“It’s one of the most amazing feeling I've ever felt,” he said. “I know it's tough not making playoffs, but I wouldn't want to end the year any differently.”
For Douglas, Ozolins finished with 11 points (4-8) and 6 rebounds. Collins added 14 points in the loss.
For Carson, Robison stuffed the stat-sheet with 10 points (2-8), 5 assists, 3 blocks, and a season-high 17 rebounds. Carter tallied 15 points (6-9), 3 assists, and 2 rebounds. Barry also added 15 points with three made 3-pointers.
After a disappointing 8-16 season (5-10 in league play), Carson gave their best effort every single game. After losing two top-notch scorers in Tez Allen and Jaden DeJospeh last season, the Senators and first year head coach Jordan Glover regrouped and battled throughout the year. Carson will look to rebound next season.