Pirates win first district championship

The Braden River High boys basketball team captured its first district title in school history with a 38-37 victory over Lakewood Ranch in overtime of the Class 4A-District 10 championship tonight.

Trailing 34-31, Braden River point guard Steven Ross hit a three-pointer to tie the game at 34-34 with only a few seconds remaining in regulation.

In overtime, Lakewood’s Jordan Baker hit a jump shot to put the Mustangs ahead 36-34. Braden River’s Tommy Bernhardt responded with a jump shot of his own and Eric Foster hit a jump shot as well to clinch the victory for Braden River.

Ross finished with 10 points and Tre Bryant added nine points to lead the way for Braden River. Lakewood’s Brian Cobb led all scorers with 15 points.

For photos of tonight’s game pick up the Feb. 17 issue of the East County Observer.