The Ashland Tomcats’ season came to an end as they fell to the Bowling Green Purples, 80-74, in overtime on Friday morning in the Sweet 16 quarterfinal round at Rupp Arena.
The Tomcats (24-8) jumped out of the gate quickly, gaining a 21-13 lead after the first period. Bowling Green (30-6) cut into Ashland’s lead, but the Tomcats still held a 33-29 advantage at the half.
Both teams came out blazing in the third quarter, and the Tomcats were able to take a 57-52 lead into the final quarter. The Purples were able to tie it up in the final frame to send the game into overtime. In the extra period, Bowling Green as able to gain a little separation for the win.
Zander Carter led Ashland with 33 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. Tyson Lalonde followed with 14 points. Elijah Neel scored 10 points. Caleb Clarke had 8 points and 7 boards. Preston Hoskins added 6 points and 6 rebounds. Drew Smith finished with 3 points.
Bowling Green was paced by Luke Idlett’s 26 points. Deuce Bailey followed with 18 points. Kadyn Carpenter added 17 points. Jace Wardlow scored 9 points. Braylon Banks had 8 points. Joe Hurt chipped in with 2 points.
The Purples will play in the semifinal round against South Oldham on Saturday morning at 11 am.
