Marshall held on to defeat Foreman 66-61 in front of the home crowd in a back-and-forth Public League playoff opening round game on Thursday.
The Commandos (11-11), who trailed 24-22 late in the second quarter, seemed to steal momentum when guard Timothy Triplett (15 points) hit a three-pointer and sank three free throws to put Marshall up 28-24 heading into halftime.
But the Hornets were able to stay in the game because of hot shooting from guard Emmaei Hoard, who finished with five three pointers and the inside presence of Percell Washington (22 points, 11 rebounds).
Washington scored nine straight points in the final three minutes, cutting Marshall’s lead to 62-61 with 36 seconds remaining. But free throws from Triplett and Citron Miller (15 points) sealed the win for the Commandos.
“It’s a new day for everybody when the playoffs start,” said Marshall coach Henry Cotton. “It was a great game and they came ready to play.”
According to Triplett, Foreman (4-15) caught Marshall by surprise.
“As seniors, it is our fault,” said Triplett. “We have been here before and it was up to us to get through to our younger guys what playoff basketball is all about.”
James King chipped in with 10 points and 14 rebounds for the Commandos.
On a side note, Marshall girls coach Dorothy Gaters announced there will be a Shawn Harrington Rehabilitation Fund set up by the school.
She also announced that an alumni fundraising basketball game will take place Saturday, March 1, at 1 pm at Marshall.
