Although many felt it could not be done, the Gahanna Lincoln Golden Lions out played Northland 71-45 last night in front of 6,000 fans to claim a birth in the state tournament. Despite Gahanna's significant size disadvantage, Gahanna's guard play was the difference in this game. Although Northland jumped out to 7-0 lead with consecutive dunks, and led 12-10 at the end of the 1st quarter, Gahanna seized the lead early in the 2nd quarter and took a 33-22 lead into the half.
In the 2nd half, Gahanna remained aggressive, continued to attack the cup and stayed hot from the perimeter. Gahanna maintained the lead throughout the 3rd quarter and carried a 50-31 lead into the 4th quarter. Although most in attendance at the Fairground Coliseum waited anxiously for a Vikings run, Gahanna guard play controlled the tempo of the game, and actually extended the lead.
Jarred Sullinger had his typical outstanding performance, but it simply was not enough, as the Golden Lions had everything clicking on what turned out to be a special night. Gahanna was led in scoring by Stevie Taylor (scored his 1000th point in the game) and Rob Brandonburg who both finished with 19 points; Sam Bott who had a stellar game with 14 points and Anthony Jackson who contributed 12 points. Northland was lead by Sullinger's 24 points, followed by JD Weatherspoon with 13 points and Trey Burke's 8 points. Next up for Gahanna is Massalin-Jackson in the state final four. To see pictures of the game, visit the Buckeye Prep Facebook Fan Page. Checkout the Ty Kish video. the Cap City Prep video and the Columbus Dispatch story for more on the game. More pictures added. With the win, Max Preps has ranked Gahanna 6th in the nation and USA Today has the Lions at 10th! Check out the Central District All-Tournament Team selections.
Great Job Lions. Good Luck at the State!!!!!
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