Basketball Recap: Lake Weir Comes Up Short

Lake Weir fought the good fight in their overtime match against Crystal River on Monday but wound up with a less-than-desirable result. They were just a bucket shy of victory and fell 54-53 to the Crystal River Pirates. The Hurricanes were given a dose of their own medicine in this game as the Pirates apparently hadn't forgotten their defeat the last time these teams played back in February of 2023.

Lake Weir's loss came despite a true team effort from the offense, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was John Smith, who posted ten points and five steals. That's the most steals Smith has posted since back in December of 2023. The team also got some help courtesy of Kevin Shell, who went 5 of 7 en route to 10 points and eight rebounds.

Even though they lost, Lake Weir smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 11 offensive boards. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least eight offensive rebounds in four consecutive contests.

Crystal River's win was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Ej Jenkins, who almost dropped a double-double on 14 points and nine boards. Jake Yost was another key player, putting up 13 points and three steals.

Lake Weir has traveled a rocky road recently having lost three of their last four games, which put a noticeable dent in their 13-11 record this season. Those losses can't be blamed on the team's offensive performance across that stretch, as they averaged 52.3 points per game. As for Crystal River, they have been performing well recently as they've won six of their last eight matchups, which provided a nice bump to their 15-9 record this season.

Lake Weir does not have any more games scheduled as of now. As for Crystal River, they will head out on the road to challenge Santa Fe at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday. Santa Fe will roll in looking for their fourth straight victory, something Crystal River surely won't give up without a fight.