Italy — The JV Gladiators trailed 18-8 in the first-half against the Rio Vista JV Eagles but decided in the second-half to get back in the game. With point guard Eric Carson leading the way, Italy chipped away at the Eagle advantage with help from James Walton and Joshua Cryer. Coby Bland had a huge game on the boards for Italy with David De La Hoya proving to be a force on defense as well.

In the final moments, Italy’s JV trailed 32-30 with a chance to take the final shot. With Walton inbounding, Kenneth Norwood let a 3-pointer fly from the left wing of the Eagle defense, hoping for the win. Unfortunately, the shot sailed over the rim where teammate Coby Bland wrestled the rebound away, but time expired before Italy could make a move.

The score ended with RIo Vista on top 32-30 despite the valiant comeback efforts by Italy’s JV.

Varsity Action:
The 1A Italy Gladiators (1-2) hosted the 2A Rio Vista Eagles inside Italy Coliseum last night and kept pace with the Eagles early. Bailey Walton, Ty Windham, Kevin Johnson and Mason Womack had solid games for Italy. Darol Mayberry, Zain Byers and Tyler Anderson had their moments as well. Kevin Roldan, Tyler Vencill and Ryan Connor also tried to give Italy a lift but it was the Eagles from Rio who flew away with this one, 70-35.

Playing better competition will help Italy in the long run so the team will have to take a few lumps before district rolls around. The Gladiators will get a boost when senior TaMarcus Sheppard returns after an ankle injury heals up. Until then, it’s all about working on their game and continuing to improve which the Gladiators accomplished against Rio Vista.

Go Italy!