Galena boys basketball coach Tom Maurer admitted he may have been guilt of overcoaching and it may have cost his team a most impressive win at the Las Vegas Prep Tournament.
The Grizzlies fell to Green Valley - one of Southern Nevada's top teams if not the Southern 4A's top team - 80-72 in triple overtime on Monday. Green Valley stayed unbeaten and along with Bishop Gorman and Palo Verde are considered one of the top teams in the South.
Maurer said the loss should serve as motivation to earn a possible rematch with Green Valley in the state playoffs. His team's performance also received what could be considered high praise for Maurer. "I think we're good," he said.
Galena led by three points in the second overtime with six seconds to go. But Maurer instructed his team to play a defense it had never practiced and the move backfired as Green Valley hit a three-pointer to force triple overtime.
"Coach Maurer learns a valuable lesson," Maurer said. "Never do something that you've never done before. I'll eat humble pie."
The Grizzlies had the chance to win at the end of regulation on a four-footer and another chance to win at the end of the first overtime on a runner.
"You can't ask for anything more," Maurer said. "You can't be more happier as a coach. The kids did a great job. They played their a---- off. Our kids ran out of gas in the third overtime."
Galena also battled back from a 32-22 halftime deficit to force a 61-61 tie at the end of regulation. But foul shooting and critical turnovers ultimately cost Galena the win.
The Grizzlies were 13-of-23 from the line. "We've got to make some free throws," Maurer said.
Derek Lorenzen scored 29 points, 6-7 freshman Luke Babbitt had 16 points, Chad Seidenstricker had 12 points and Eric Maupin added 10 points. Maupin also held 6-7 sophomore sensation Billy White to 10 points. White has already reportedly been contacted by Arizona. Galena continues play in the tournament today against Bonanza.
