Miami Palmetto depth wears down Riverside, 72-46

WESTWEGO – After a tough 50-48 loss Wednesday to Madison Prep, Miami Palmetto did not allow the disappointment to linger.

The Panthers took control in the second quarter and coasted to a 72-46 victory over Riverside Academy Thursday afternoon in the consolation round of the Allstate Sugar Bowl Boys National Bracket at the Alario Center.

It was all about the Panthers being bigger and much deeper.

While Miami Palmetto’s starters were excellent, it was the Panthers’ bench which made the difference, scoring 31 points while Riverside reserves scored just two points.

Jovan DeBrito led the Panthers (11-4) with 17 points, including five 3-pointers while Josmel Martinez finished with 16 points, nine rebounds and five assists. Alexander Rodriguez came off the bench for Miami Palmetto, scoring 13 points. All 11 Panthers scored in the game.

After a close first quarter with six lead changes, the Panthers led 12-11. The separation began in the second quarter as Miami Palmetto outscored the Rebels 20-11 to take a 32-22 lead at halftime.

The Panthers continue to control play in the third quarter, outscoring Riverside 22-12 to take a commanding 54-36 lead.

Riverside shot poorly throughout. Kash Foley led the Rebels (5-12) with 19 points while Gage Larvadain had 17 points and seven rebounds. Isaiah Bigham added eight points.

Final
Miami Palmetto 12 20 22 18 72
Riverside 11 11 12 12 46

Scoring
Miami Palmetto
Jovan DeBrito 17, Josmel Martinez 16, Alexander Rodriguez 13, Jordan Lopez 8, Kentron Poitier 4, Gary Bess 4, Marcos Molina 3, Keneth Hall 2, Martin Mercedes 2, Jason Marshall 2, Sean Zabari 1

Riverside
Kash Foley 19, Gage Larvadain 17, Isaiah Bigham 8, Andre Murphy 2

Rebounds
Miami Palmetto 33, Riverside 29

Turnovers
Miami Palmetto 9, Riverside 7