The Island Coast Gators pushed their score all the way to 68 on Thursday, but even that wasn't enough to win. They took a 81-68 hit to the loss column at the hands of Gateway. While losing is never fun, Island Coast can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' Florida basketball rankings (they are ranked 555th, while Gateway is ranked 102nd).
When it comes to explaining why Island Coast lost, one person who can't be blamed is Izaiah Bacchus. Despite the final result, he scored 26 points along with six rebounds and four steals. Bacchus continues to roll, besting his previous point total in each of the last three games he's played. Jose Bido was another key contributor, scoring 16 points along with five assists.
Island Coast's defeat ended a three-game streak of away wins and brought them to 7-10. As for Gateway, they pushed their record up to 13-2 with that win, which was their 13th straight at home.
Both squads will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Island Coast will be staying on the road on Friday to face off against Ida Baker at 7:30 p.m. on January 19th. Ida Baker is coming into the contest on a three-game losing streak. As for Gateway, they will head out on the road to square off against Bonita Springs at 7:30 p.m. on Friday. Bonita Springs is still on the hunt for that elusive first 'W'.
