Triple Overtime Thriller!

In a heart-stopping showdown at Jack Byrne Gymnasium, the Avon Grove boys’ basketball team etched a tale of determination and fortitude into the chronicles of sports history. The Red Devils clashed with West Chester East in an epic triple-overtime clash, emerging victorious with an electrifying 81-72 win on Thursday night.

As the tension soared, the Red Devils showcased their mettle, outscoring the valiant Vikings 13-4 in the third extra session to secure the hard-fought victory. A gripping performance unfolded on the court, led by the remarkable Josh Cox, who left an indelible mark by putting up an astounding 30 points. In the decisive third overtime period, Cox’s precision from the free-throw line, sinking seven of eight attempts, served as the decisive blow, sealing the win in a thrilling fashion.

Let’s start from the beginning: Avon Grove, displaying resilience throughout, had controlled the game until the fourth period. The turning point saw the Red Devils relinquish a 10-point lead in the fourth period, courtesy of an explosive 7-0 run by the Vikings’ Bryce Cox. The seesaw battle intensified, with momentum swinging back and forth. The fierce comeback by the Vikings forced the first overtime. 

The game teetered on the brink of a Vikings’ victory in the first overtime until Brock Bernstein of the Red Devils buried a three-pointer at the buzzer, knotting the score at 62-62.

The intensity persisted into the second overtime, with both teams trading baskets. Avon Grove seized the lead, only to witness the Vikings’ Cox hitting a crucial three-pointer with 12 seconds left, extending the saga into a third overtime.

As the clock ticked down in the final extra session, Avon Grove took control early. Tashaan McClain and Josh Cox orchestrated pivotal plays, securing a lead for the Red Devils. West Chester East faltered with a 2-for-8 shooting performance, while Cox and Bernstein capitalized on crucial free throws.

“This win shows the toughness of this team and the trust we have in each other,” declared Cox. The absence of their key player, Adam Ziegler, due to injury, didn’t deter this cohesive unit. Cox emphasized the team’s family-like bond, unyielding confidence, and fearlessness in clutch moments. The fourth-period turnovers briefly threatened their lead, but Avon Grove rallied together.

Despite a valiant effort by the Vikings, Avon Grove clinched the triple-overtime victory. Kasheem Bronzell’s standout performance for West Chester East, tallying 27 points, couldn’t tip the scales. The Red Devils, buoyed by Cox’s prowess from the charity stripe, secured a pivotal win, enhancing their prospects for the District 1 6A playoffs. In a game defined by resilience, trust, and electrifying plays, Avon Grove etched a memorable chapter in their basketball journey with an 81-72 triumph in triple overtime.