Juniata 38, East Juniata 32 (OT)
COCOLAMUS —- It isn’t how you start, it is how you finish as regulation wasn’t enough for these longtime rivals, but ultimately it was Juniata who defeated East Juniata, 38-32 during a Tri-Valley League girls basketball game on Thursday night.

The Tigers were down every step of the way throughout the night, but managed to fight their way back within single digits by the end of the third quarter with a 24-21 Juniata lead.

East Juniata came even closer during the fourth period with just under two minutes to play with the Indians having a 28-27 lead. Sara Brackbill then tied the game at 29 apiece with a little over 30 seconds remaining.

However, Ava Shearer of Juniata responded with a big and one which fouled out Grace Hibbs of the Tigers to put Juniata back up to a 32-29 lead. But East Juniata refused to quit, as Cadee Becker nailed a big three ball to even things at 32 at the end of regulation.

Then in overtime, the Indians began to muscle their inside and put the pressure on East Juniata both offensively as well as defensively. The Juniata defense held the Tigers scoreless for the whole period.

Juniata found contributions from multiple players. Shearer led the Indians with 16 points despite the early foul trouble. Mariska Beward was also a major factor throughout the game attacking the boards and giving Juniata second chance points. Cora Musser also came through with some big shots.

Brackbill led the Tigers scoring over fifty percent of their points with 18.

Juniata (6-3, 4-0) hosts Susquenita on Monday. East Juniata (4-4, 3-1) travels to face Midd-West on Saturday.