The Bulldogs came out running and never looked back as they defeated the visiting Barberton Magics, 64-48 Tuesday night at home.
Stow's (7-1) up-tempo running style gave them a 15 to 8 lead after the first quarter, and 12-point lead at halftime (32-20). Though Barberton (6-3) equaled Stow's point production in the third quarter, they didn't match up well with the Bulldogs and faded in the fourth quarter, losing by 16.
Stow's aggressive defense, backcourt quickness, accurate long-range shooting, and favorable matchups in the middle gave head coach Dave Close a distinct advantage.
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“We didn’t have to body up to people [tonight],” said Close. “We blocked a lot of shots with length. We didn’t have to get physical.”
The Bulldogs heeded Close's direction, not getting their second team foul until the third quarter. Barberton fans in attendance, however, disagreed and were vocal throughout the game.
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The Bulldogs had four players score in double-digits, lead by guard David Walker. The 6-foot-6 junior had a game-high 22 points, making all three-point shots. Walker also had five rebounds.
Other Bulldogs scorers include junior guard Kyle Scelza (15 points, 3 rebounds), and senior forwards Ryan Yurkschatt (14 points, 6 rebounds) and Mike Garrison (10 points, 10 rebounds).
The Bulldogs received a scare late in the fourth quarter when Garrison had to be helped off the court due to injury. Coach Close said that it was a minor injury and he [Garrison] should be ready for the Bulldogs’ next game.
Barberton junior guard J.D. Cuckler lead the Magics with 14 points and six rebounds.
The Bulldogs’ next game is Friday at home against the Brush Arcs.