The Mount Vernon sophomore boys basketball team secured a hard fought 50-47 victory over Marion on Friday night, showing a large improvement against a defensive scheme that had troubled them before. 

Marion started in a 1-3-1 zone defense, a strategy that disrupted Mount Vernon’s offense earlier in the year. However, this time, the Mustangs were prepared. Maddox Thede put on a spectacular performance, leading the team with 32 points. He set the tone early, scoring Mount Vernon’s first ten points. “I found a rhythm,” Thede said. “I found open spots on the court to cut to.” By halftime, he had already scored 16 points and matched that in the second half, proving to be the deciding factor in the game.

While Thede carried the offensive load, defensive intensity played a crucial role in Mount Vernon’s victory, Clay Simpson anchored the defense with an impressive display of hustle and awareness. “I just felt I wasn’t getting the playing time I wanted,” Simpson said. “I knew I was the only one that could fix that.” Though he didn’t contribute on the scoreboard, his numerous deflections, key steals, and a drawn charge helped shift momentum in favor of the Mustangs.

The game remained competitive throughout, with neither team being able to establish a comfortable lead. Marion’s defensive pressure tested Mount Vernon’s composure, but the Mustangs executed their offensive adjustments effectively. Marion took a one-point lead with 48 seconds left in the game, putting Mount Vernon under pressure. However, Thede came in clutch by nonchalantly sinking two free throws with 32 seconds remaining, taking back the lead for the Mustangs. 

Marion had one last chance, but Simpson came up with a crucial steal with just 10 seconds left, giving possession back to Mount Vernon. As the seconds ticked away, Cole McDermott was fouled and confidently stepped up to the line, draining two free throws to secure the victory. “I didn’t want to let my teammates down. I knew that if I made these free throws, we would win.” McDermott said. 

This victory highlighted Mount Vernon’s growth and ability to adapt against a unique defense. Their will to keep their composure and execute under pressure earned them a well deserved win. Mount Vernon looks to carry this momentum into their next matchup, Feb. 11, at the Green State Field House as they continue their season with confidence and determination.