Even with a 5-12 mark, the Solvay boys basketball team possessed within itself the capability of knocking off anyone.
Such was proven last Monday night, when the Bearcats led two-time defending Class B champion Hannibal for much of the game before taking a 52-49 loss to the Warriors.
Perhaps catching first-place Hannibal looking ahead to a key showdown with Bishop Grimes later in the week, Solvay played an inspired first half, going in front and staying there until it went to the locker room with a 26-19 advantage.
Sensing the danger, Hannibal ate into the Bearcats’ lead in the third quarter, then inched in front during the last few minutes to deny Solvay’s upset bid. Jeff LaMont hit five 3-pointers and had 19 points overall to key the Warriors’ comeback, and Derrick Shoults converted crucial free throws down the stretch.
Dan Aiello set up Solvay’s chance with 16 points, while Andrew Lucio and Mike Rowlands each gained 11 points. Devanere Surrey had six points and Tom Hayes added five points. Aside from LaMont, Brenden Nollet (12 points) and Tyler Baker (10 points) also hit double figures on Hannibal’s side.
