Avoyelles beats Monterey late 60-57

Published 12:00 am Wednesday, February 16, 2011

MONTEREY — Visiting Avoyelles Chatman took a late lead against the Monterey Wolves en route to a 60-57 win Tuesday, helped by a trio of three pointers and free throws.

Eddie Stirgus of Avoyelles (23-8) nailed three three-pointers in the final two minutes, tying the game at 57. Avoyelles look the lead off of three free throws, sealing their victory over Monterey (16-11).

“We had him lost in rotation three times, it hurts,” Monterey head coach Eric Richard said. “It hurt us not having time outs down the stretch. We didn’t defend well towards the end of the game.”

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Stirgus scored 12 of his 23 points in the final period, all of which were threes. His third three-pointer tied the game at 57, swinging all momentum in Avoyelles direction.

After Avoyelles tied the score, Monterey had three attempts at a go ahead basket. However, Avoyelles managed to steal an inbounds pass which resulted into a fast break opportunity, forcing Monterey to foul. Nathan Simpson went to the free throw line, making one of two, bringing the score to 58-57.

Monterey had another attempt to take the lead but could not convert, forcing them to foul Avoyelles once again. Christian Jeansonne was sent to the line as he made both free throws, bringing the final score to 60-57.

Monterey led Avoyelles Charter 12-4 after the first period and led by six at the half. However, the offense of Avoyelles out scored Monterey by nine in the second half. Monterey led the entire game until the free throw by Simpson.

Despite the loss, center Josh Chatman and point guard Brett Wright had solid games.

“We go as Josh goes. When he plays well we usually win,” Richard said. “But tonight we just couldn’t get it done.”

Chatman scored 15 points to go along with multiple blocks and rebounds.

Wright scored 10 points for the Wolves, staying in the game for almost its entirety. He came out for a breather with four minutes left in the game, then went right back in.

“Brett’s not usually a starter but he provided the energy of a starter,” Richard said. “Our starting point guard broke his hand the other night so Brett has been thrown into the starting rotation. He’s a great guy off the bench.”

Monterey had three players score double digits, Chatman, Wright and Nick Blake who scored 16.