Golden Eagles boys squander strong start

In the final eight minutes, Indian Rocks went 1-for-8 from the field and was outscored 10-2 in the period.

By DOUG KATES Times Correspondent
Published December 29, 2006

LARGO - Indian Rocks Christian has had an up-and-down boys basketball season but was hoping to put something strong together for its holiday tournament.

In opening round action on Thursday, the Golden Eagles (7-4) showed a lot of promise, taking a five-point lead over Hollywood (10-2) after three quarters.

But then the downfall began, resulting in a 42-39 loss.

In the final eight minutes, Indian Rocks went 1-for-8 from the field and was outscored 10-2 in the period.

"We've been inconsistent all season," said Golden Eagles coach Joe Frost. "We might come in (today) and hit the lights out."

In other boys games, Seffner Christian defeated Tarpon Springs 58-47, River Ridge defeated St. Joseph's 48-42 and Lakeland defeated Gulf High, 71-42.

The Indian Rocks girls tournament also began Thursday. Tampa Prep's Stephanie Grasso took advantage of additional playing time to lead the Lady Crusaders with 21 points in a 77-59 victory over St. Joseph's.

"This game, I was mentally prepared," said Grasso, who missed a practice and has seen a limited number of starts.

"I've been kind of bummed I haven't been starting. I think I was trying to make a statement."

Tampa Catholic had control for most of the game, but eight 3-pointers by St. Joseph's kept the score close.

In other girls games, Indian Rocks Christian defeated Seffner 51-25, Hollywood Christian defeated Whitefield 46-37, and Pace Academy defeated Henry County 40-16.

[Last modified December 28, 2006, 23:29:44]