Boys Basketball: Skyline’s pressure helps push game with Saline into win column

Saline took a one point lead into the fourth quarter in its game with visiting Skyline on Tuesday night before the Eagles turned up the pressure and switched gears. And the Hornets couldn’t keep up.

With about 5 minutes left in the game, Skyline went to a full-court press to try and turn up the pressure and it resulted in a couple Saline turnovers that were converted into a layup and made free throws.

The Eagles continued to alternate some full-court pressure with half-court stops and won the fourth quarter 23-9 and the game 53-40 in an SEC Red Division matchup.

Skyline got off to a strong start with a 6-0 lead making a couple three-point shots and Saline continued to fight back and Skyline held a 12-10 first quarter lead. The first quarter was a half-court defensive battle with both teams making shots difficult for each other.

The second quarter was more of the same with each team working to play good half court man-to-man defense and each team trying to find shots with their play action. Skyline was able to hold onto a 25-21 halftime lead.

In the third quarter, the Eagles had quite a few turnovers with many empty possessions not getting shots but continued to be strong enough on the defensive end to keep the game close. Saline took a 31-30 lead after the third quarter.

Skyline was 11-12 from the free-throw line in the fourth quarter and also made a season high nine three-point shots in the game.

Sam Koelling (14 points), Jayden Potts (13) and Ben Stille (10) led the Skyline offense. Will Gardner had five points and James Harrison Jr and Ish Abdul Aziz each scored four points. Lucas Lynch had three points.

Saline was led in scoring by Romeo Love with 15 points.

Skyline will next play Williamston at Saginaw Valley State on MLK day 4:30 p.m.