New Lex Buzzer Beater Breaks Miami Trace Hearts in D-2 Boys Sectional Final

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New Lexington’s Bentley Hanson was held scoreless in the first half in Friday’s Division 2 Boys Sectional Championship at Zane Trace High School, but the second half was a much different game for Hanson as he dropped in 12 points- including the game winner from 15 feet for the game-winner at the buzzer.

Miami Trace never trailed to conclude each of the first three quarters, 11-11 after one, led 19-15 at halftime and 33-32 after three. Miami Trace had three point margins four times in the fourth quarter and held a 39-34 advantage at one point, but were not able to distance themselves further as New Lexington came up with critical field goals while also connecting on 16/20 at the foul line.

Stats don’t always tell the whole story in sports, and Friday was one of those games. New Lex shot 15/42 from the floor- including 6/16 from the arc for just 36%, while Miami Trace was 17/33- including 5/7 from the arc for 52%. MT also was 11/17 at the charity stripe and outrebounded New Lexington 25-13, but their 15 turnovers was a key to their setback.

The Panthers of New Lexington were led in scoring by Isaiah Stephens with 17 points and 12 from Hanson. Five other NL players were in the scoring column with 6’3 freshman Eli Stephens scoring 8 points- including two treys.

Miami Trace was led by 6’7 sophomore Adam Guthrie with 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Austin Boedecker added 15 points. Three other Panthers combined for the remaining 13 points.

New Lexington repeats as sectional champ, improving to (20-4) while Miami Trace closes their FAC Championship season at (17-7).