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Boys Basketball: Providence uses size to bring down Joliet Central
Updated: March 13, 2012 4:41PM
Providence’s senior Mike Marietti blocked six shots in a 50-44 victory over Joliet Central at the University of St. Francis on Wednesday night.
With Joliet Central outsized at nearly ever spot on the floor, Marietti made his presence known around the basket. He scored 10 of his 15 points in the first half for a 17-16 lead at the break.
“We emphasized getting the ball down low in practice and playing inside-out,” Marietti said. “Against a small team like that, I’ve got to get some early lay-ups and work my post moves. Seeing those first few go down really helps your confidence from there.”
Providence (1-1) went on a 12-0 run in the third quarter that proved to be the difference.
A tied contest turned into a 32-20 Celtics lead after a spinning drive from freshman Miles Boykin (eight points), and a steal and bucket off the ensuing inbounds pass from Kevin Kozan (six points).
But Joliet Central made Providence sweat out the win. The Steelmen ratcheted up their full court pressure, forcing turnovers that led to transition baskets. A Kenneth Carpenter basket cut the Providence lead to four with less than two minutes remaining. But Tim O’Halloran answered back with a basket to give Providence another six point lead.
“We’re a young team, and if we’re not concrete in our understanding of how to value our possessions, shot selection and tempo, we’re going to struggle,” said Joliet Central coach Jeff Corcoran.
Joliet Central received a boost off the bench from Jalen Heath. The junior guard led the Steelmen with 14 points. Sophomore Jonah Coble chipped in 12 points and a game high nine rebounds for the Steelman.
Lincoln-Way North Tournament
Lincoln-Way Central 58, Bremen 50: Brad Foster had 17 points and 10 rebounds for Lincoln-Way Central (3-0). Johnny Finnin added 13 points and five rebounds for the Knights in the third-round game at Lincoln-Way West.
St. Charles East Tournament
Plainfield East 66, Downers Grove South 57: Austin Robinson poured in 25 points for Plainfield East (2-0) in the second round.
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