Bay Rockets Boys Basketball Storms Back to Top Buckeye 74-70 Behind Explosive Third Quarter

Bay Village, Ohio — Bay Boys Basketball turned a sluggish start into one of its most productive offensive nights of the season, rallying from an early 11-point deficit to defeat Buckeye 74-70 on Wednesday, January 20th.

The Rockets trailed 16-5 midway through the first quarter and were down 38-29 at halftime before seizing control with a decisive third-quarter surge. Bay exploded for a season-high 25 points in the third, fueled by hot perimeter shooting, connecting on seven 3-pointers in the quarter to flip the game and carry a 54-52 lead into the fourth.

Senior Ethan George finished with 21 points, seven rebounds, four assists, three deflections and two steals. George helped stabilize the offense after the slow start and sparking defensive pressure that began to wear on Buckeye in the second half.

The Rockets’ balance was equally decisive. Junior Emmitt Naughton added 17 points, four assists, two deflections and two steals, consistently creating off the dribble and finding open shooters throughout the game. Junior Ryan Miller also scored 17 points and controlled the glass with 11 rebounds while adding three steals and three assists. Miller was perfect at the free-throw line (6/6). This was Miller's first career double-double.

Freshman Kelan Rose gave Bay another strong, balanced presence with 10 points, seven rebounds and two steals, contributing to the Rockets’ work on the boards as they climbed back into the game. Junior Brody Beggs chipped in for six crucial 4th quarter points and two steals, adding to a collective defensive effort that turned deflections and steals into transition opportunities during the key 22-5 third-quarter run that gave Bay its first lead.

After entering the fourth quarter ahead 54-52, the Rockets closed out Buckeye in a tightly contested final eight minutes, trading baskets but maintaining the edge built during their dominant third. Timely perimeter shooting, rebounding and composure at the line allowed Bay to hold off the Bucks’ late pushes and secure the 74-70 victory.

The comeback win vs the #1 team in the Cleveland West Conference showcased Bay’s resiliency and offensive potential, highlighted by the season-best third quarter, season-high points scored, and four players scoring in the double-figures. The Rockets’ combination of perimeter shooting, balanced scoring and disruptive defense provided a blueprint for future contests as they move deeper into the season. It was also Bay Basketball Youth Night, where the 3rd-8th grade teams were recognized at halftime. 24 youth players were awarded their 5,000 / 10,000 Shot Club gear for an impressive off-season of shooting work. The Rockets will be on the road this Friday, January 23rd, at North Olmsted.