BULLDOGS DONT SHARE, PALESTINE SECURES TOP SPOT IN EOAC

EAST PALESTINE OH- We are taught at an early age the values of sharing with others. It is a virtue in every walk of life, except athletics. East Palestine had already earned at least a share of their first league championship in program history, but no one wants to share on the basketball court. On Thursday, they had the opportunity to lock up sole possession of the top spot as they hosted Columbiana. If Columbiana won however, there would be four teams all with the same record at the top. The Bulldogs weren’t having that. Palestine left nothing to chance with a 65-47 victory over the Clippers, and earned the crown of the EOAC all to themselves.

Joclyn Fristik had a monster night for the Bulldogs leading the team with 25 points. Morgan Rutledge also had a strong performance chipping in 14 points to the Palestine offense. Patience Champney was also in double figures with 13 points.

Grace Witmer was a force on the night for Columbiana. She put in a game-high 31 points to lead the Clippers. Tori Long added 7 on the night.

East Palestine looks to take this momentum in to tournament play as they travel to Berkshire for a sectional championship on Saturday. Despite the loss, Columbiana is still alive and well in their bracket. They will meet up with fourth seeded Champion on Saturday in Warren for the chance to go to districts.