Cedarville beats Ashland in an exciting comeback

By Danielle Cherry 

On Feb. 22, Cedarville’s packed gymnasium roared as the seniors walked across the court, being recognized for their dedication to Yellow Jackets’ basketball. A back-and-forth game ensued, but Cedarville’s teamwork and intensity won them a lively comeback for all 2263 spectators, leaving Ashland in the dust 81-69.

“What an amazing crowd,” Coach Rob Jones said. “I’m so happy for the seniors to be recognized on a day like this and then to have such a great crowd.”

Anticipation radiated, and every seat in the gym was filled. The Jackets knew this would be a challenging game against GMAC opponent Ashland. Initially, the Eagles took advantage and forced their way through Cedarville’s defense, but the tone shifted when senior Timothy Davis hit an exciting shot. 

Ashland continued to play tough defense and forced the Jackets to take shots outside of the paint. The team got frustrated and flustered, being swarmed from all angles. Driving to the basket failed, shots downtown were off-kilter and Cedarville’s intense on-ball defense was doing little to stop Ashland. 

“I think we were just trying to be too aggressive on defense, and sometimes it gets you all out of whack,” Ethan Sellers said. “So we just try to loosen up, just trust ourselves and trust the principles.”

Ashland set the pace, shooting 31% from the field, while Cedarville was left in the dust at 21%. 

Then everything changed. Sellers cashed in shots from deep after missing most of them early. His accuracy boosted the Jackets’ shooting percentage to 47% and their three-point percentage to 37%. His ability to make shots from seemingly impossible angles wowed the crowd. 

“My favorite moment was Ethan coming off the screen and snapping back,” Davis said.  “I usually have faith in E’s shots, but that was a tough one, but it put us up.” 

Each of Cedarville’s makes quenched the crowd’s thirst for baskets. Sam Johnson was relentless on the glass, forcing shots between defenders and gaining fouls. Free throws were vital in maintaining their lead against Ashland, shooting 82% to Ashland’s 50%.

“It was a great atmosphere,” Sellers said. “When the fans came out, it was easy playing. It was a special night representing our seniors and the whole community.”

Starting the second with a five-point lead, the Jackets let up defensively and allowed Ashland a chance to creep back in. Although playing tough defense, the Jackets focused on on-ball defense and let players cut back door. With only five minutes left, Ashland regained the lead, affecting the Jacket’s mentality.

“The game of basketball is emotional, no matter how you look at it,” Jones said. “When you feed into the negative emotions, it really hurts you. We were trying to stay composed and stay together.”

Jaylen Davis shifted those emotions with an emphatic dunk that fueled the team. This shift in demeanor was evident; the men played together to the end. 

“I think when we started to push the lead forward, and Jaylen got that dunk, it was a relief,” Sellers said. “It was like a burden off our shoulders, so that was definitely special.”

This was the final home game for seniors Davis, David Okapera and Nick Epifano. They kept their composure throughout the game, whether on the court or the sidelines. Despite this night being about them, the seniors shared the ball with their teammates, seeking a win for everyone. 

“I really appreciate all of the guys on the team,” Davis said. “The way they have individual great characters that create an environment of phenomenal people, which creates a life of its own.” 

Danielle Cherry is a freshman Communications major and writer for Cedars A&E and Sports. She is a Missionary Kid from Germany and loves a good cup of coffee.  

Photo by Preston Cavin