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Gators Down Wildcats

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By CLIFF GILL, Tribune correspondent

Published: February 9, 2008

The Class 5A-District 7 semifinal game between Land O' Lakes and Wesley Chapel was reminiscent of an old west shootout. Two gunslingers came out shooting, but the Gators prevailed, winning 71-49.

Shooting the lights out for Land O' Lakes was senior Jerome Harrison, who made six of his first seven shots, including three 3-pointers. As a result of his offense and a smothering team defense, the Gators jumped out to an insurmountable 50-18 halftime lead.

The Wildcats' sharpshooter was senior Greg Jenkins, who fired in 23 points, including three 3-pointers of his own. On numerous occasions, Harrison would sink a long 2- or 3-pointer, followed by a long basket by Jenkins.

The other difference in the game was Land O' Lakes' supporting cast. Senior guard Ely Payne added 11 points, including one 3-pointer. Senior center Mike Espinoza had a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds. For Wesley Chapel, only senior point guard Chris Sepulveda came close to double digits, finishing with nine points.

Ridgewood will face Land O' Lakes in the final after the Rams defeated Brooksville Central 75-47 in the second semifinal.

Ridgewood used its height advantage, the quickness of point guard Alvin Satram and a tough man-to-man defense for the win.

"Defense wins most games," Ridgewood coach Gary Anders said before the game. "We need to stay focused and play a strong defensive game."

His team was listening, as the Rams defense had 13 steals and forced nine turnovers.

Lukas Poderis led the Rams with 26 points. The 6-foot-8 Poderis was clearly six inches taller than any defender Central coach Eric Hayes could match up with the All-State candidate.

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