The St. Genevieve Valiants defeated the Glendale Nitros 60-59 following a fourth quarter comeback to improve to 5-7. The loss marked the end of a four game winning streak for the Nitros.

The St. Genevieve Valiants proved they can overcome adversity as they fought their way out of a six-game losing streak with an upset victory over the Glendale Nitros. Though the Valiants have struggled to close out tight games this season, they conquered a seven point halftime deficit to gain control of the game and come out with a victory. 

The Nitros started the game strong, winning the first quarter 21-14 following lights out shooting from senior guard Roman Ramirez. Glendale’s offense was facilitated by strong ball movement from senior wing Chris Martirosyan, who cleaned up the offensive glass and kicked the ball outside the arc for second chance three point attempts. 

As the game progressed, the Valiants found the weak spots in the Nitros’ defense. While the Nitros efficiently sealed the perimeter, they offered minimal rim protection once the Valiants were able to penetrate. St. Genevieve sophomore center Chasen Pejoro dominated in the post once the Valiants found a way to feed him there. The Nitros, though, maintained their lead through offensive efforts from Ramirez and senior forward Joshua Ballard. 

The Valiants shifted the momentum in their favor entering the third quarter, with sophomore forward Jayden Lepley taking control of the glass and deflecting multiple Glendale passes. Junior forward Finn Montgomery also came off the bench to serve as an energy boost for the Valiants. The St. Genevieve deficit was cut to 49-44 entering the fourth quarter. 

The Nitros fought hard to stay on top, with added defensive efforts coming from junior center Erlvin Lucena, who had a huge block to keep the Valiants from tying early in the fourth. Senior guard Dominic Contreras came alive for St. Genevieve to close out the game, shooting efficiently both from distance and at the rim. Contreras closed the gap for the Valiants and Lepley sank the final shot to put St. Genevieve on top, closing out the game 60-59 with only seconds left on the clock. 

The Valiants look forward to a home game against Bosco Tech on December 21, while the Nitros will attempt to bounce back on January 7 at Arcadia.