Boys Basketball: Lake Central holds off late surge

Updated: February 17, 2012 10:50PM

ST. JOHN — An unbeaten home season was on the line for Lake Central, but Michigan City was on fire.

The Wolves had scored 15 unanswered points — including the first 13 of the fourth quarter — to cut a 17-point deficit down to two points (45-43) midway through the quarter.

Talk about ruining Senior Night for Glenn Robinson III, Taylor Lehnert, Zach Gentz and Danny Paschen — that would definitely make it not so special.

The Indians (17-2, 12-1) responded with a 14-5 run of their own and scored 14 of the game’s last 21 points to complete a perfect 9-0 home season with a 59-50 Duneland Athletic Conference win over Michigan City (9-9, 8-5) Friday night.

“I knew we just had to pick it up,’’ said Robinson, who had 12 of his game-high 18 points in the first half and was honored before the game by being named the state’s Most Valuable Player by Indiana Basketball News and presented a huge trophy.

“I told the guys during a timeout that is our game and we’re not losing this game at home. I just wanted to make sure to get that win for the fans and for all the people who have supported me and supported LC basketball the whole year. This was not just for me, but for my teammates and those people. It means a lot to me. This has all gone by fast. Four years have gone by fast.’’

The Indians fell behind by 10 points (15-5) early in the first period and trailed 18-11 after one quarter.

Mike Miklusak helped the Indians take the lead late in the first half with the first of two 3-point baskets that put LC up 28-24 at halftime.

Indians coach Dave Milausnic wasn’t so much concerned with his team’s slow start as he was letting a 17-point lead (45-28) almost evaporate.

“I wasn’t too disappointed with the first quarter,’’ he said. “I’m just more disappointed with us blowing a 17-point lead.’’

Milausnic said it was an emotional night for his seniors and himself.

“It’s tough to know these guys aren’t going to play in this gym anymore,’’ he said.

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