Bryson City – The Maroon Devils opened their season and conference play last Friday with a thrilling 93-86 come from behind win over Robbinsville. The Black Knights built an 11 point lead over the 1st three quarters and entered the final period of play leading 65-54. But Swain erupted for a 39 point third quarter on their way to the win.
In the 4th it was junior forward Zeke Bradley who sparked the comeback. In the opening minutes of the 4th Bradley made good on 3 consecutive 3 point plays. The burst ignited the Devils offense, which until that point had been stagnant.
Bradley finished with a game high 24 points to pace the Devils, he also pulled down a game high 8 rebounds to go with 3 assists and 3 steals. Junior guard Bradley Vestal finished with 22 points, while Brier Younce came off the bench to score 12 points, including 9 of 11 from the free throw line.
The game itself, much like the girls game, was slowed to a near standstill with foul calls. Swain and Robbinsville combined for 74 total fouls called. The Maroon Devils finished with some 50 free throws shot on the night, while Robbinsville finished shooting nearly 40.
Swain returns to action Tuesday as they travel to Rosman.