Butler escapes Central Dauphin, 93-90, in overtime in PIAA First Round
For the third time this postseason, Butler was heading to overtime with their season on the line. For the third time this postseason, the Golden Tornado kept their season alive with a 93-90 overtime thrilling win over Central Dauphin Saturday afternoon at North Allegheny High School. Butler trailed for most of the night, but Mattix Clement tied the game with eight seconds left and the Golden Tornado were able to pull away in the extra period.
There was a very fast pace in the first quarter, both teams going back-and-forth and after one, Central Dauphin led 14-12. The Rams of Central Dauphin dominated the second quarter carrying a 34-26 lead into the half. Butler continued to make a push in the third quarter, but Central Dauphin had an answer the entire quarter and led 54-47 heading into the fourth quarter.
In the final stanza, Butler started to make their frantic comeback. Down 79-77 with eight seconds left, Clement got fouled and went to the line with a chance to tie the game. He did just that hitting both free throws. Central Dauphin had a chance to win the game, but the ball rimmed out and we were heading to overtime. In the extra period, Butler finally pulled out in front, their first lead since the first quarter, and kept it for good escaping with a 93-90 win.
Devin Carney led all scorers with 39 points. Ethan Morton added 13 points.
Ryan Smith had 35 points for Central Dauphin while Rance Russo added 30 points himself.
Butler improves to 21-4 overall. Up next for the Golden Tornado will be Upper St. Clair in the PIAA Second Round Wednesday, March 11 at North Allegheny at 7 p.m. This is a rematch of the WPIAL Semifinals, a game Butler also won in overtime.
Central Dauphin’s season ends at 22-7 overall.