Holyoke sees another narrow loss; Burlington wins 41-35 in final quarter

Last Friday, Holyoke and Burlington varsity boys basketball teams played the kind of game that kept fans guessing throughout. At times the Dragons led; at others the Cougars did. When the score was tied up, no one knew which way it would ultimately go. In the end, the Cougars had a big fourth quarter and won 41-35.

Early on, things were especially close. Holyoke made four 2-point shots, and Ethan Johnson hit a 3 in the first quarter. Burlington also had a 3, two 2-pointers and four free throws. Tied at 11 going into the second quarter, the Dragons pushed ahead, adding 12 points to the scoreboard. The Cougars managed just eight and trailed 23-19 at halftime.

Back for the third quarter, Burlington cut into the lead, but remained behind 29-28 at the start of the final period. The Cougars made the most of the last eight minutes of play, racking up 13 points and holding HHS to six for a 41-35 win.

Miles Sprague and Caleb Deaver led Holyoke’s offensive efforts, scoring 10 points each. Sprague made four of four free throws, and Deaver made two of three. Slaten Burris led in rebounds with six total.

As a team, HHS made 59% from the foul line, and BHS made 60%, which is a fitting example of just how closely matched the competitors were.

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