Boys Basketball

February 23, 2007

Indians Hitting Their Stride at the Right Time

Pioneer Press Article

It may be only the consolation bracket, but Lane Tech is peaking at the right time.

The Indians pulled off a pair of victories in the city playoffs, earning a trip to the final four tonight.

Lane defeated Bowen 64-56, Tuesday, February 13, earning a match-up with Harlan last Friday. The Indians trailed by four heading into the final minute, but Shelton Jackson took control, recording three straight steals. Jackson converted one into a lay-up, and Chris Harris tipped in a missed shot off the final steal to tie the game with four seconds left.

The game headed to overtime and turned on a crucial defensive play. Lelo Bellamy took a charge with one minute remaining, enabling Lane to hold on to a 61-59 win.

In the two games, Jackson averaged 13 free throws per game while Jon Holzman excelled at directing Lane's offense.

"Jackson is becoming the player we always thought he could be," Indians head coach Leroy Jarka said.

Jarka said he is extremely satisfied with how Lane has improved in five key areas: running the offense, limiting turnovers, taking charges, hitting free throws, and controlling the boards.

Lane faces King tonight in the final four before taking on St. Ignatius in a non-playoff game this Saturday.

Pictured above is Lane Tech guard Quentin Fair (5'10" junior) who scored 26 points in a victory over King for Lane's third straight victory in the Public League consolation playoffs. The basketball team may be peaking at the right time with their state playoff game looming this Wednesday vs Foreman at Loyola Academy. www.LaneTechFan.com photo.