The Guthrie Bluejays jumped out to a 12-0 and a 12-2 first quarter lead against the Noble Bears on Homecoming Night, January 27, but would lose the game 50-48 when the Bears scored a basket with four seconds left in the game for the winning basket. The Bluejays had one more chance but a shot buy Corbin Witt at the buzzer rimmed out.
The Bluejays jumped out to a 12-0 lead in the first six minutes of the game, that caused Noble to burn two timeouts trying to get back into the game. The home team still led 2213 at the half as Brayden Morgan had eight points at the break.
The third quarter was a reversal of roles as the Bears outscored the Bluejays 18-11 to trail 33-31 going into the final quarter. The score was eventually tied 39-39 in the fourth quarter and was a back and forth game until the end. The Bears had a four point lead at one point, and several turnovers allowed the Bluejays to get back in the game.
A critical foul by Jaylen Harper was called an intentional foul and gave the Bears a chance to seal the deal with two free throws and the ball. It was 48-48 with 21 seconds left in the game after a timeout and the Bears had the ball. The visitors held the ball until the winning shot with four seconds to go.
Morgan and Nate Benford led the way with 17 and 13 points respectively. Witt chipped in with nine points all down in the paint area.
The Bluejays (8-7) are at number one ranked Carl Albert (14-3) on Friday night before finishing at home with six home games with three top ten teams coming to Guthrie to close out the season.
ABOVE: Brayden Morgan on the way to 17 points against Nole as Corbin witt trails the play. RIGHT: Nate Benford on afast break as Noble defender tries to cut hom off.