Evans Claims Metro Conference Title in Thrilling OT Victory

BREAKING: The Evans boys basketball team has just secured a dramatic 47-44 overtime victory against Windermere, claiming the Metro Conference West tournament title on January 12, 2024. This win marks Evans’ second overtime triumph in just two nights, solidifying their status as a top contender for the state title.

In a nail-biting finale held at Evans High School, the Trojans (14-4) overcame a 10-point deficit to clinch the championship. With only seconds remaining in regulation, senior guard Johnny Wright executed a crucial bank shot, tying the game at 40-40 and forcing overtime.

Junior guard Abimael Belleus starred in the extra period, scoring six of Evans’ seven points, including a pivotal spinning scoop shot that put the Trojans ahead 45-42. “I just wanted to get the bucket,” Belleus stated. “We needed it. We gotta keep stacking up wins.”

This victory is significant not only for the Trojans but also for their trajectory this season. Evans is currently ranked No. 4 in the FHSAA 6A standings, trailing only defending champions St. Thomas Aquinas, Bartow, and Mainland. The team boasts a perfect 3-0 record in overtime games this season, including a previous win against Edgewater.

Windermere (9-9) faced challenges without their key player, senior point guard Lucas Boyd, who suffered a wrist fracture in a previous game. Despite a spirited effort, Windermere could not capitalize on their late-game opportunities, closing the gap to 45-44 with free throws but missing their final three contested shots.

Evans head coach Lonza Morgan reflected on the team’s performance, saying, “We were lethargic in the first half. Once defense started creating offense, we got going.” In addition to Belleus, junior Nikarens Deceus contributed with 9 points, while senior Dewayne Holiday dominated defensively with 3 blocked shots.

The Trojans’ victory over Windermere was particularly sweet, as they had not beaten the Wolverines in their last eight encounters dating back to 2019. Windermere’s Ben Bunnell led all scorers with 16 points in the loss.

Looking ahead, Evans will host Lake Brantley (11-7) on Tuesday, while Windermere prepares to face neighboring Windermere Prep (14-3) in what promises to be another competitive matchup.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Oak Ridge game and other developments as the basketball season progresses.