Coach Esry's Pirate squad took home a tough road win Monday over Missouri Valley College JV 84-83. "That was not a normal JV team that we played and I am very proud of our guys and how they responded and competed against juniors and seniors, many with 2 year junior college experience," remarked Esry on the level of his competition. Earlier in the year the team handled a different looking squad when they posted a 108-92 victory at home.
The win was of the come from behind fashion. The Pirates trailed 49-40 at the half and had to show a lot of character in the comeback. "We still have a lot to work on but I thought we grew as a team and got better last night because of the competition, adversity and end of game situations we were put in," commented Esry.
Assistant Coach Penrod broke down the end of game situations like this. "We were down by 4 points when we got an offensive rebound and Teyontae Jenkins banked in a three. On the next play, we trapped the ball in the corner and forced a jump ball. Fortunately, the possession arrow was in our favor. On the ensuing possession, Teyontae drove and dished to Dee Scruggs to give us the lead with less than five seconds to play."
The Pirates were able to hold on that final Vikings possession and escape with their 11th win. Jalen Gant led the scoring for the Pirates with 22 points. Scruggs (13 points) and Demetrius Houston Jr. (12 points) also scored in double figures.
"Hopefully we can carry our momentum on to Wednesday's game at Wentworth," added Esry. That region contest is the next game up on the Pirates schedule.