Troy Christian lost a heartbreaker on Friday night, as the area boys’ basketball season officially tipped-off around Ohio. The Eagles lost to Franklin Monroe 68-65 in overtime to spoil their home opener. On Saturday, the Eagles bounced back with a 67-56 victory over New Bremen.

“It was a great night for high school basketball, two quality teams battling and the kids gave everything they had for their team,” said Troy Christian coach Ray Zawadzki. “It was fun to observe. Neither team wanted to lose, and it made for a good night of basketball.”

“We didn’t get the result we wanted against FM, we just lost the battle but we will win the war. We will be better after that game.”

Troy Christian could pinpoint the reason they lost on Friday, going 8-24 from the free throw line.

“It wasn’t effort or execution, it comes down to missing the free throws. No high school team can shoot 33 FT% and win. It is an area we are working on.”

James Anderson had a big night for Troy Christian with 23 points and 16 rebounds, but had to come out in the overtime after cramping up.

“He showed his potential and showed why I was touting him as the league Player of the Year,” Zawadzki said. “Nine guys scored. Sophomore Connor Case saw in first action, and hit 3 three’s, and played confident. Everyone gave their best effort.”

On Saturday night against New Bremen, Troy Christian came out and jumped out to a 19-10 lead and never trailed.

“Our defensive pressure was very intense and we maintained it for 32 minutes,” Zawadzki said. “They could not handle the pressure.” Troy Christian attempted 45 free throws in the game.

Seth Wynne hit three shots from beyond the arc, and finished with 12 points. James added 15 points and Case pitched in 12.

“Cameron Strine and Ben Schenk were both very solid for us,” Zawadzki said.

Troy Christian is off this week, and returns on December 13 to play Dayton Christian at Centerville High School.