Darren Kinnard/River Radio Sports Central
MARION — Ethan Simmons hit the go ahead three-pointer off an inbounds play with 20 seconds to play helping the Marion Wildcats to a 28-25 senior night victory over the Mt. Vernon Rams, preventing the Rams from having a chance to earn a share of the South Seven Conference championship.
The Wildcats led 13-10 at the half and extended that lead to eight late in the third quarter before the Rams rallied. Dayvion Goodwin hit a buzzer beating jumper to pull Mt. Vernon within six at 22-16 heading to the fourth. The Rams then outscored Marion 9-1 to open the final frame, taking a 25-23 lead on a pair of free throws from freshman Dave Barnes with 2:02 to play.
Marion freshman Cam Curry made huge plays down the stretch. His steal helped set up Simmons’ go ahead basket. He then made 1-2 from the free throw line after hauling in a rebound of Navontae Nesbit Junior’s miss with six seconds to play.
The game was not settled though until Cale Maurer’s potential game-tying three pointer bounced off the rim at the buzzer.
Mt. Vernon’s loss coupled with Centralia’s win gives the Orphans the outright conference title.
