Rocky Grove held off Lakeview to win final home stand

Quietly, but with determination, Rocky Grove has become 'the other' basketball team in the area. 
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As Franklin has been blowing out opponents on the way to an undefeated (so far) season in their region, the Grove has been a little more of gritty in getting win after win. 

Rocky Grove is doggedly been finding ways to win games. During their last home game of the season  Friday, the region third-place Orioles showed their ability to manage a game with patience and take advantage when opportunities present themselves.

​In the first half against Lakeview, they were simply being beat. They stayed in sight of the Sailors, but couldn't seem to get that little something extra to catch them.

Then, in the second half, their full-court pressure started to work, Lakeview got sloppy and the Orioles took advantage at key moments en route to a 53-44 win.

The Sailors put a body guard on Isaac Clayton in such a way coach Ryan Umbenhaur was calling lawyers to get an emergency PFA order for his player. Other Orioles like D'Andre Whitman stepped up to fill the gap.

​Clayton was shut down entirely in the first half and the Sailors led. But Clayton, on defense, proved he could take the ball into his own hands via steals and score to start the second half. Though it was still difficult for him to get touches, he ended up contributing solidly in the second half.

When it came down to it, coaching and team patience was the difference that turned the game around.

The Orioles have two more games, both away - Tuesday against Mercer before the final game Thursday against a very strong Kennedy Catholic team, who is undefeated at the top of the region.

The "other" Franklin area team is having a very fine season themselves and have been giving their fans plenty of reason to cheer.

Below are a few more photos from the court including another squad that have been with this team all year long providing them with support and cheers.
​It was their last home game as well.

​There is also an update on a story we did last week about a fun picture taken earlier this season.

LEFT: Alex Zinz held true to his word and corralled the team together for another post introduction selfie.

I'll teach him how to turn his phone sideways before next season so he can get everyone in a horizontal selfie. Haha. This team has been fun to photograph.

See more photos at https://sayerrich.zenfolio.com/p522484701