Day two of the OCAA Men’s Basketball Championship saw the west division Lambton Lions defeat the east division George Brown Huskies in their consolation semi-final match 92-84. Lambton will now advance to the consolation final where they will either play the tournament hosting Niagara Knights or the Fanshawe Falcons. With the loss, George Brown’s journey at the provincial tournament has come to an end.
The beginning of the first quater saw each program trade respective baskets, but a late 11-point run by Lambton had the Sarnia program finish the frame up 28-19. Led by George Brown’s Dejazmatch James' 14 point second quarter, the Huskies would respond outscoring the Lions 25-19 to close the deficit at the half to 3 (47-44).
Lions’ 5th year guard Branden Padgett (Detroit, Michigan) took over the second half of the game, scoring 24 of his 35 total points to lift his program to the impressive tournament victory. In addition to his game high 35 points, the veteran also collected 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals. His effort Friday afternoon was noticed as he was awarded the player of the game for his program. Padgett will look to finish his career as a winner when his program plays in the consolation final on day 3 (Saturday).
Pacing George Brown’s offence Friday afternoon was 5th year guard Dejazmatch (DJ) James finishing his Huskies’ career with a team high 25 point performance. In addition to James, OCAA East Division Rookie of the Year Adam Costanzo (Ottawa, Ont.) was named the Huskies’ player of the match after posting an impressive 16 points and 11 rebounds.
The Lambton Lions consolation final is scheduled for 2pm at the Welland Campus Athletic Centre in Welland, Ontario.
