Nail-biter: MIA varsity boys narrowly lose to Everglades City
Lady Rays succumb to Gators in another close game
On Thursday, a packed Marco Island Charter Middle School gymnasium erupted with deafening cheers as the Marco Island Academy Manta Rays faced the Everglades City Gators.
The fast-paced game and tight score kept fans on the edge of their seats. Moments before the final buzzer sounded, MIA’s Dominic Moller was fouled while attempting a three-pointer and was given the chance to tie the game with three free throw opportunities. Moller made his first free throw making the score 89-91. All eyes watched with anticipation as he attempted the second free throw which unfortunately missed, thus ending the game. Final score 89-91.
“I thought our guys played really hard,” said Travis Barry, MIA basketball coach. “Everglades City rarely missed a shot. I thought it was going to go to 100-100. It was a really fun game. I wish it would’ve worked the other way, but Everglades City deserved it.”
The Lady Manta Rays took the court following the boys’ game in an action-packed game of their own. The first half of the game was only separated by a couple points.
Seniors Gianna Rose and Chelsea Casabona led MIA in scoring. Senior Gianna Rose made seven points before sitting out for an injury, while Chelsea Casabona led the team with 17 points.
The Lady Gators proved to be too tough and handed MIA a 31-46 loss.
For more on the games go to marcoislandacademy.com.
