In sports, there is usually one person or team that no matter how hard one tries, one cannot quite beat them. When one finally beats said opponent, there is cause for much rejoicing.
There was much rejoicing in Oxford’s locker room on Jan 13 because they finally slayed Lapeer East 54-47, whom they have not beaten in three years.
‘This was the first time that any of my current players have defeated Lapeer East,? Coach Steve Laidlaw said following the victory over one of Oxford’s rivals.
Unfortunately, that celebration was cut short when Oxford followed it up with a 41-38 loss to Swartz Creek.
Oxford played great basketball throughout the game, holding Swartz Creek to 20 points below their season average. Laidlaw was thrilled with the way Oxford battled in the game.
‘The guys played outstanding. From a defensive and rebounding standpoint, we were outstanding,? he said.
The game was tied at 19 by halftime, and Oxford was able to take a four point lead with two minutes left in the game. Swartz Creek tied the game after hitting a three off of a jump ball, and then won the game at the buzzer.
Despite a poor shooting night, the Wildcats had balanced scoring throughout the lineup, which was lead by Junior Tommy Nieman’s 10 points.
Senior Captain Anthony Esparsa had a terrific game, finishing with eight points, nine rebounds, and three steals.
Junior Matt Versteeg had seven points, finishing three-for-three from the field.