LYNN – A strong second half propelled Lynn Classical to a 68-59 victory over Somerville on Thursday and extended its winning streak to seven games.
It’s been a long stretch this week for the Greater Boston League leader Rams (14-2), playing four games in six days that included a Saturday evening matchup against former Northeastern Conference foe Swampscott before a back-to-back against Burncoat on Monday and crosstown rival Lynn English on Tuesday.
Going into the matchup against the Highlanders (11-4), it seemed like fatigue was kicking in for coach Marvin Avery’s team.
“We had four games this week and to come out and beat a good Somerville team I have to give credit to my coaching staff,” said Avery.
In the opening quarter, both teams came out trading punches. Kam Rucker led the charge, scoring nine points as the teams were tied at 20 after the buzzer.
“We lost to them last so the mind set was to just attack,” said Rucker.
Somerville (11-4) got into an offensive rhythm in the second quarter, seemingly finding the open man on each possession with senior Jaycob Underwood-Roche scoring 10 of his 13 points in the second quarter to give the Highlanders the lead going into the half.
Trailing by six at halftime, the Rams responded by outscoring the Highlanders 20-8 in the third quarter and turning strong defense into offense.
“We adjusted and I feel as a team we are one of the best defensive teams in the state,” said senior guard Dj Reynolds.
Four Rams scored in double figures, led by Rucker, who scored a game-high 20 points. Shy Babb put together another double-double with 19 points to go along with 14 rebounds, while fellow senior Deshawn Rucker scored all 15 of his points in the second half and Reynolds added 14 points.
“People look at Kam as an unselfish leader; he’s been coming into his own lately,” Avery said. “What can I say about Deshawn? He might be in the slump but he just picked it up in the second half.”
With the Rams beginning to pull away, Somerville’s Julian Goodridge who finished with a team-high 16 points and five rebounds scored on a drive to cut the lead to 54-48. Lynn Classical closed the game outscoring Somerville, 15-10
The win not only avenges the Rams’ 55-51 loss to the Highlanders earlier in the season, but also sets up a big league matchup Tuesday against Chelsea, who defeated Lynn English on Thursday.
Avery’s team now has four days until stepping on the court again and will use that time to get some much-needed rest in preparation for their matchup against Chelsea.
“Film, rest, keep our composure and get ready for Chelsea Tuesday night,” said Avery.
