The Nimitz Cougars hosted the Stratford Spartans for a fast-paced showdown on the hardwood Tuesday night and came out on top 77-62. The Spartans were under tremendous pressure throughout the game as the Cougars ran a full court press and never let up. The intense defense by the Cougars would test both teams endurances. 

During the first period, the Cougars established their rhythm and developed a game plan that included power, crashing the boards, and shots that were dropping like its hot. Quinston Reggins proved to be the Cougars go-to man draining a three-pointer seconds before the end of the first period. 21-10.

The Nimitz defense stepped up big forcing several turnovers and not allowing the Spartans easy points in the paint. Midway through the second period, just when the momentum seemed overwhelmingly in favor of Nimitz, Stratford center Andrew Luck answered back with aggressive rebounding and relentless pursuit of the ball.

Decreasing the deficit to 10, the Spartans fired up with a three pointer and foul that brought the score within 7. 31-25.

With jerseys drenched and fatigue apparent of all players, both teams fought for every point throughout the remainder of the period. Nimitz, whose play-off berth is secure, played as if this game would decide the team's future. 

The second half of the game was to be no different as both teams came out and played with determination. The fast pace established by Nimitz took a toll on the Spartans. Stratford attempted to slow the pace in the first few minutes of the third period, but was successful only briefly.

The third period, however was neither team's best period for putting up points on the board and ended with a score of 55-44. Nimitz took greater advantage in the first three periods and every opportunity to rebound, force turnovers, and score some points.

Fatigue was evident in the fourth period again. Luck’s leadership and aggressive play urged his teammates to action and admirably the Spartan team never stopped hustling.

Tonight, however, hustle was not enough as Nimitz was too powerful and unstoppable.
The Nimitz defense shut the Spartans out in the paint and the Cougars walked away with a 77-62 victory in their home gym.

High point player of the game was Reggins with an amazing 36 points followed by teammate Damien Bass with 13.
Rodney Milum of Stratford finished with 13 points followed by Luck putting up 12.

**Interviews of players included in the Reel Action.

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