Kickapoo’s Natalie Closser hit two free throws in the final seconds to seal a double-overtime win over Republic 38-34 in double overtime at the Pink & White Lady Classic Tuesday. The free throws capped a come-from-behind win for the Lady Chiefs, who had trailed by as many as nine points in the third quarter.
After an 11-2 run gave Republic a 20-15 lead at halftime, Republic extended the lead to 30-23 and appeared to be in control as the fourth quarter began. Coach Kris Flood says his team didn’t respond well from that point on.
“We had a good run there right before halftime. We extended the lead in the third quarter like we wanted to do. We just didn’t do a very good job in the fourth quarter,” says Flood. “We learned the importance of free throws.”
The Lady Tigers missed the front end of three one-and-ones late in the game, all in situations where two free throws would have almost clinched a victory.
“We had three chances to win the game. Fourth quarter we had the chance, and even in both overtimes. But you miss the front end of one-and-ones, you don’t play very smart with the ball in the fourth quarter, you get out-physicaled a little bit — we just didn’t have it there, and that’s why we’re on the wrong end this time,” says Flood.
Kickapoo achieved some revenge for an earlier loss at home to Republic. In that game, it was the Lady Tigers who came from behind to win.
The Lady Tigers have a quick turnaround with an 11 am game for third place in the White Division tomorrow.
“We’ll check some character tomorrow, and see how we bounce back after a tough loss like that,” says Flood.
Republic falls to 7-2. Their two losses are to Class 5 #1 Rock Bridge and Class 5 #2 Kickapoo.
