Roosevelt is on a four-game streak of home losses, Barberton a three-game streak of away losses, but someone's luck will change on Friday. The Roosevelt Rough Riders will host the Barberton Magics at 7:30 p.m.
Last Tuesday, Roosevelt lost to Cuyahoga Falls on the road by a 58-44 margin.
Despite their defeat, Roosevelt saw several players rise to the challenge and make noteworthy plays. Jaden Dennison, who posted eight points and four steals, was perhaps the best of all. The team also got some help courtesy of Gavin Peeps, who scored six points and five rebounds.
Meanwhile, Barberton came into Tuesday's game having lost four straight, but that streak is now in the rearview. They escaped with a win on Tuesday against Tallmadge by the margin of a single free throw, 55-54. The win was all the more spectacular given the Magics' disadvantage in MaxPreps' Ohio basketball rankings (they are ranked 296th, while the Blue Devils are ranked 141st).
Roosevelt better keep an eye on Kardiay Tyler. He was instrumental in Barberton's win, going 10 of 21 on his way to 22 points in addition to seven assists and seven boards. Tyler is also crushing it when it comes to steals: he's grabbed at least two every time he's taken the court this season. Another player making a difference was Joey Ondo, who had ten points along with seven assists and seven rebounds.
Barberton was working as a unit and finished the game with 18 assists. The team's really been improving in that area: they've now improved their assist total in three consecutive matchups.
Roosevelt's loss dropped their record down to 4-14. As for Barberton, they now have a winning record of 10-9.
Rebounding is likely to be a big factor in this contest: Roosevelt has been smashing the glass this season, having averaged 28.7 boards per game. However, it's not like Barberton struggles in that department as they've been averaging 45.2 rebounds. With both teams battling to corral missed shots, we'll see if one team can grab an edge.
Roosevelt came up short against Barberton in their previous meeting back in January, falling 59-49. Will Roosevelt have more luck at home instead of on the road? Come back here after the game to get an analysis of the match and other basketball content.
