MOONEY DEFENSE TAKES THE SPOTLIGHT

SALEM, OH – Mooney and Liberty matched up in the Division III District Semifinal on Tuesday night. As everyone knows, possession is key and turnovers hurt even worse in tournament play. For the Leopards, who do not usually turn the ball over much, were on the other side of the turnovers Tuesday. The Cardinals were able to grab control of the game early after forcing four straight turnovers in the first quarter and capitalizing on the mistakes by Liberty. In the second quarter, the Leopards were able to get some confidence with a late scoring run that cut the deficit down to 11. Luckily for Mooney, they have some hot shooters. Rocco Turner ended the first half with a three right at the buzzer, which led to an early start for Mooney once again in the second half with a quick three. The Leopards were not able to get the speed that Mooney played at under control and ultimately, that carried Mooney to victory, 64-62.

For Mooney, Mick Hergenrother led the way with 15 points. Jack Pepperney put up 12 and Drew Pecchia added 10 for the Cardinals.

For Liberty, Rushad Chambers led the way with 13. James Davis contributed 9 points for the Leopards.

Liberty finished up their season with a 16-7 record. Congratulations to the Leopards on a great season!

Mooney will move on to the District Final on Friday, as they will take on the number 1 seeded Springfield at Salem HS. Don’t miss it on YSN!

*Contributed By YSN’s Brendan Miller.