Game Recap: Elder Panthers Defeat Fairfield Indians, 61-54, at Holiday Hardwood Classic
The Elder Panthers (5-2) held off a late rally from the Fairfield Indians (7-2) to secure a 61-54 victory in a hard-fought contest at the Cintas Center, part of the Holiday Hardwood Classic.
The game began with a fast-paced start, as Fairfield’s Daviawne Crim and Gabe Clemmons both scored early to give the Indians a brief lead. However, Elder quickly found its rhythm, going on a 9-0 run to take a 16-11 lead at the end of the first quarter. The Panthers maintained their advantage throughout the second quarter, with balanced scoring and solid defense. By halftime, Elder led 34-27, with Cam Williams and Jaden Walpole leading the charge.
In the second half, both teams came out with intensity, but it was Elder that controlled much of the third quarter. Crim and Williams traded three-pointers early, but the Panthers responded with key plays on both ends of the floor. By the end of the third, Elder had extended its lead to 47-38.
The fourth quarter was full of drama as Fairfield mounted a run. The Indians cut the deficit to six points with five minutes remaining, thanks to a big three-pointer from Crim. However, Elder senior Jaden Walpole stopped the momentum with a crucial and-one play, pushing the Panthers’ lead back to nine. Fairfield had several opportunities to close the gap, but Elder’s defense and ability to hit clutch free throws in the closing moments sealed the win.
Cam Williams, who scored 17 points, was named the Beacon Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Player of the Game for his all-around performance. Williams is now the second two-time winner of the award in the history of the Holiday Hardwood Classic, joining Sycamore’s Raleigh Burgess.
With the win, Elder improves to 5-2 on the season (0-0 GCL), while Fairfield drops to 7-2 (5-0 GMC). The Panthers will look to carry this momentum into their league play, while the Indians will look to bounce back after a tough loss.
This exciting contest at the Cintas Center showcased the intensity and skill of two of the top teams in the region, with Elder emerging victorious after a strong all-around effort.
Comentarios