Big Reds Maul Bears

The Milan Big Reds came out fast and hard against the Jefferson Bears. They scored 15 points in the first quarter and only allowed two, both on free throws.  There was 2:25 left in the second quarter before Jefferson scored their first points of the period and hit their first jump shot of the game. The Big Reds (12-5) went on to rout Jefferson 56-27.

Milan’s first half defense was smothering. They played a full-court press and trapped well.  Jefferson was unable to get good looks when the Big Reds allowed them to get a shot off at all. 

Milan’s offense was also clicking. Jiles Neely and CJ Turnage both scored as many points as the whole of Jefferson’s team in the opening half, six.

“They weren’t hitting shots, but we had a lot to do with that. They were taking contested shots. They didn’t get open threes or open shots,” said head coach Josh Tropea.

Milan had a hard time coming out of the break with the energy that they showed in the first half. Jefferson had their best offensive period, scoring 13 points, but their defense was still unable to stop Milan’s offense. Milan led after three periods 44-19.

“We lost our intensity on the defensive end in the second half. After we called time-out, we went (to a man defense) because, bottom line is, if you’re not going to be intense (in a zone), you’re going to give up layups,” said Tropea.

The fourth quarter showed Milan’s depth. Hunior varsity call-up Tim Mabry played significant minutes and stout defense and Steven Price scored five points and grabbed three rebounds for the Big Reds.

“On the defensive end, we like what Tim does. He’s learning zone concepts and getting a better feel for the offense. Steven Price is a kid that makes us better every day in practice. It’s good to see him get some good minutes and some points tonight,” said Tropea.

Milan was led in scoring by Turnage with 10 points and Andre Duffin had eight.  All twelve players that suited up Wednesday night scored at least two points for the Big Reds.