The Independence Boys Basketball team beat the Trinity Trojans for the first time in 4 years on December 13, also picking up their first conference victory of the season after a dramatic overtime finish.
The game was tightly contested from start to finish. Trinity forced overtime with a buzzer-beating three-pointer, but Independence refused to let the momentum swing define the outcome.
“Our game vs. Trinity was a close game throughout with both teams having leads throughout the game,” head coach Matt Grendel said. “Our boys stepped up in different moments throughout the game that helped us secure the victory.”
The Blue Devils’ response in overtime was impressive, coming just days after a tough loss to Fairview in their conference opener. Rather than dwelling on that setback, Independence regrouped and delivered when it mattered most.
“I was really proud of our team for not getting too down about the buzzer beater three from Trinity that forced overtime,” Grendel said. “It was obviously disappointing for us that the kid made that 3, but our team didn’t let that affect their focus and effort in overtime.”
Independence relied on balanced contributions across the lineup. Bobby Jackson led the team with 18 points, while Matty Jirmasek came up big in the fourth quarter and overtime to help close out the win. Levi Sears made his presence felt inside, grabbing 10 rebounds and forcing two jump balls that resulted in extra possessions. Liam Rienerth added an all-around performance with 9 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists.
The Blue Devils outworked Trinity in overtime, staying focused and executing on both ends of the floor to secure the victory.
“The team stuck with it and worked hard in the overtime period to get the win,” Grendel said.
With their first conference win now secured, Independence will look to build momentum as they prepare for their next challenge against rival Cuyahoga Heights in the LaBella Tournament.
