Lady Aviators Lose To Wood Ridge in Overtime

The Aviators lost to visiting Wood Ridge in overtime, 42-35, in their last home game before the start of the state competitions.

“This was a game that we could have won, but we still showed that we have a different mentality,” said Aviator guard, Daniella Castellanos. “Unfortunately, we got some turnovers, and they hurt us.” 

The Aviators trailed for most of the game and were down by nine points at the end of the first and third periods. It was not until 5:13 left in the fourth that the Aviators rallied and cut the lead to 27-22.

The Aviators’ upped up their defense to force Wood Ridge into multiple turnovers, which were converted into fast break points.

Castellanos, who led all scorers with 18 points, almost single-handedly brought the Aviators to victory, hitting a key three-pointer with 1:45 left in regulation to give her team a 32-28 lead and almost causing the roof to come off the gym.

“When the shot left my hands, it didn’t feel too good. It just sort of floated out and went in.” she said. 

The Aviators also received stellar defensive contributions from senior Jhanna Aria, who finished the night with 6 steals (while breaking up a good number of passes that prevented Woodridge from finishing their plays).

As time began running down,Wood Ridge resorted to fouling, but the Aviators were unable to capitalize from the charity stripe, missing free throws that would have put the game away.

“That’s exactly what hurt us," said Lady Aviators head coach Brett Roscoe. “We were able to catch up with them, but we did not make our free throws."

In the overtime period, the Aviators also turned the ball over on consecutive possessions. As time began began running out with Wood Ridge leading 36-32, they found themselves being forced to foul.

Unfortunately for the Aviators, Wood Ridge players were able to connect on their free throws.

Next Up: State Championships, 1st Round against Wood Ridge.