The Venice Indians pushed their score all the way to 60 on Tuesday, but even that wasn't enough to win. They took a hard 79-60 fall against Braden River. While losing is never fun, Venice can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' Florida basketball rankings (they are ranked 362nd, while Braden River is ranked 143rd).
When it comes to explaining why Venice lost, one person who can't be blamed is Griffin Moricz. Despite the final result, he scored ten points along with six rebounds. Another player making a difference was Josh Chaviano, who scored eight points along with six rebounds.
Braden River had a senior duo take command as Marcus Schade scored 22 points along with nine rebounds and Jacobi Murray scored 16 points along with six rebounds. That's the first time this season that Schade pulled down eight or more rebounds. Dudache Belony was another key contributor, scoring nine points.
Venice has traveled a rocky road recently, as they've lost four of their last five contests, which put a noticeable dent in their 9-10 record this season. As for Braden River, they are on a roll lately: they've won nine of their last 12 matches, which provided a nice bump to their 11-6 record this season.
Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Venice will take on Booker at 7:30 p.m. on Friday. Booker is strutting with some offensive muscle, as they've averaged 57.6 points per game. As for Braden River, they will be playing at home against Carrollwood Day at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday. Carrollwood Day is strutting with some offensive muscle, as they've averaged 57 points per game.
