Italy Gladiators, 2nd round – Mildred’s defense managed to slow down the high powered Italy offense in the 1st period. Consequently, Italy committed several turnovers in the opening minutes. Mildred had the early 2-0 lead but Italy’s hustle made up for any setbacks. Several Italy shots didn’t fall but for every missed shot, the Gladiators would swish one in taking an 18-6 lead going into the 2nd period.

The Gladiators cruised to a 25-17 advantage threatening to pull away from the Eagles before halftime. A trip to the free throw line helps Mildred pull closer 25-19. Italy’s #2 Heath Clemons hit a 3-pointer to make it 28-19, Italy’s lead.

With 3:30 left in the half, the persistent Mildred squad ran off 7-straight points including a 3-pointer of their own. The score was now 28-26 as the Gladiators trade baskets with the Eagles in the final 2:00. The score going into halftime favors Italy 34-30.

HALFTIME

Italy jumped out to a quick start in the 3rd period hitting 6-straight points to make their lead 40-30. Italy would actually end the period outscoring Mildred 17-points to 8. Behind the hot hand of Italy’s #10 John Isaac, who also added another 3-pointer to the Gladiator tally, the score going into the final period shows Italy in control 51-38.

Mildred pulls within 8-points of the Gladiators in the 4th period. However, defensively, Italy is able to do enough to hold the Eagles back as #11 Jasenio Anderson’s offensive prowess dominated the final moments. Italy defeats Mildred 63-55 and moves on to the Championship round of the 2008 Kiwanis Classic.

Coach Larry Mayberry commenting on the upcoming challenge said, “As long as we keep playing hard we’ll be fine. We’ll either play Kerens or Dawson and we’ve seen them both before, so we know what to expect.”

Italy Star Performers:
Player of the Game – #11 Jasenio Anderson, 21-points (Italy’s high scorer)
Impact Player – #33 Darrin Moore
Most Hustle – #10 John Isaac
Big Shot – #2 Heath Clemons