ROXANA — The Roxana Shells gave their seniors a night to remember on senior night, defeating Columbia 57-46 Friday evening.
“This team beat us on a full-court layup at their place earlier this year, so this gave us an opportunity tonight to get some redemption and keep us in the hunt for a share of the conference title,” Roxana head coach Mark Briggs said.
The game opened with a back-and-forth first quarter, but Columbia held a slim 18-17 lead heading into the second quarter. Roxana found its rhythm in the second, knocking down several three-pointers to create separation and take a 36-25 lead into halftime.
Columbia Eagles at Roxana Shells Boys Basketball
In the third quarter, Columbia scored a few quick baskets, forcing Roxana to call a timeout. After regrouping, the Shells responded with a strong run and carried a 46-36 advantage into the final quarter. Roxana then outscored Columbia 11-10 in the fourth to secure the win.
“Stemm had been doing it all night long, and Dugan too,” Briggs said. “I’m really proud of him tonight because he went inside and out and didn’t just rely on the three-pointer. He was a tough matchup for them; they didn’t have an answer for him around the rim.”
Roxana Shells were led by senior Sean Maberry with 17 points, Cohen Dugan with 15 points, and Aiden Stemm with 11 points.
Columbia was led by Eddie Smajic with 17 points and Brody Landgraf with 11 points.