In a nail-biting CCAA Division 1 basketball match at Falconer High School, the Golden Falcons managed to turn the tables on Olean. Despite an early deficit and a tense finish, Falconer secured a decisive 56-46 victory in overtime. The team's resilience was highlighted by Donovan Delaney's clutch three-pointer that sent the game into extra time, followed by Roger Markham's dominant performance, scoring seven of his 22 points in the final period. Coach Jordan Goold emphasized the importance of finishing strong, a message that resonated as Falconer outscored Olean 11-1 in overtime.

The Turning Point: From Trailing to Dominance

After starting the game with a significant disadvantage, Falconer gradually regained control. The first quarter saw Olean take an 18-9 lead, but Falconer tightened their defense and limited the Huskies to single-digit scores in the second and third quarters. This defensive shift set the stage for a thrilling comeback. In the fourth quarter, Falconer's offense began to click, and Delaney's timely three-pointer extended the game into overtime.

The Golden Falcons' transformation was most evident in the overtime period. With Roger Markham leading the charge, Falconer scored 11 unanswered points, while holding Olean to just one. Markham's seven points, including five successful free throws, were instrumental in sealing the win. Coach Goold credited the team's defensive efforts, noting that they played "winning-level" defense throughout the second half, especially in the critical moments of overtime.

Team Effort and Key Performances

Beyond Markham's standout performance, Falconer showcased a balanced attack. D'Mitri Carlson contributed with a crucial layup, and Parmentier added nine points. Donovan Delaney's 10-point contribution included the pivotal three-pointer that kept Falconer's hopes alive. The team's ability to stay composed under pressure and execute strategically was key to overcoming Olean's initial dominance.

Olean, despite falling short, had notable performances from Mykel Rivera, who led all scorers with 15 points. However, Falconer's relentless defense and offensive surge proved too much to handle. The Huskies struggled to maintain their momentum, scoring only one point in overtime. This victory underscores Falconer's potential and highlights the importance of perseverance and teamwork in competitive sports. The Golden Falcons now stand at 3-3 overall, with a 2-2 record in divisional play, ready to build on this momentum in future matches.