Eagles' Second-Half Comeback Eliminates Kelley

Edison trailed by a dozen at the break but held Bishop Kelley to just 13 second half points. The win means the Eagles get one last crack at making the state tournament.

Thursday, July 28th 2011, 6:09 pm

By: News On 6

Eagles' Second-Half Comeback Eliminates Kelley

Originally Published: Mar 4, 2011 10:40 PM CDT

More H.S. Playoff Coverage from CoachesAid.com: 2011 Playoff Headquarters

Bobby Lewis
Oklahoma Sports Reporter

TULSA, Oklahoma – The Edison Eagles (11-10) avoided elimination Friday night with a 51-44 win over Bishop Kelley. The loss ends the Comets’ season with a 13-10 record.

Bishop Kelley controlled the clock the entire first half. The Comets broke open a two point game with a 13-1 run spanning an eight minute stretch between the first and second quarters. Edison didn’t hit a field goal in the second quarter until 5:43 remained on the clock.

Edison made a little run before the end of the half thanks to some full court pressure. The Eagles forced three steals in the final two minutes and converted layups. Bishop Kelley bounced back with a pair of baskets before the buzzer to take a 31-19 lead at halftime.

Midway through the second quarter, Derrick Jefferson got hit on the throat while going for a steal. The Edison guard collapsed to the floor holding his neck before vomiting under the basket. He was helped to the locker room and returned to the game a minute later.

Daniel Hinson led the Comets on the stat sheet with 8 first half points.

Edison found its stroke in the second half with a 32-point outburst. The Eagles outscored the Comets 32-13 in the second half.

Don Simmons led the way with 14 points for the Eagles. Donnie Walton scored a team-high 11 points for the Comets.

Edison navigated the loser’s bracket to the end and has one last chance to make it to the state tournament. The Eagles must beat East Central in the final elimination game Saturday night at 6:30. That game will be played at Webster High School. The Cardinals beat Bishop Kelley 51-44 Friday night.

The state tournament begins on March 10th and will be held at the Mabee Center on the Oral Roberts University campus in Tulsa. Edison is looking for a fourth state tournament appearance in the last five years.