By Gary Hargis
MTN Sports Reporter
Father Ryan spoiled Ensworth’s Senior Night on Wednesday to move into fourth in the district heading into the playoffs.
The Irish will now get the opportunity to host a play-in game for the playoffs after a 56-53 upset victory over the Tigers.
“Being able to play in our home gym in a win or go home scenario is a huge positive for us,” said Father Ryan senior Luke Gdowski. “We have a lot of momentum going into the playoffs now and we play really well in our home gym, so we are definitely more than excited for this chance.”
Ensworth, which is now 20-7 overall and 6-4 in the district, struggled early on with eight turnovers in the first half. The turnovers slowed down in the second half, but the Tigers struggled to get going from deep shooting only 22% from 3-point range.
“All week in practice we just focused on competing and giving our absolute best effort,” said Gdowski. “We have a lot of depth on the team, so we give it our all and get a break when we get tired, then it’s next man up.”
Father Ryan, now 17-10 overall and 3-7 in the district, was able to protect the middle of the lane most of the game. Ensworth notched only eight points from the post players, who were much taller than the Irish inside.
“I just always have to trust my footwork and be really physical down low against players that big,” said Father Ryan center Josh Pfeifer. “I just kept my head down and kept getting in front of their guy and trusted my teammates to help me out on my backside in case they decided to lob it up over the top of me.”
Gdowski led the Irish with 15 points and five rebounds, while Pfeifer added three points and 11 rebounds.
Ensworth guard Chaz Lanier, who has received offers from University of South Alabama and Lee University, scored 17 points in the loss.