The Ladybugs and Goldbugs went into playoffs with identical win-loss records, and they continue to move through the playoffs in tandem. Thursday afternoon, the Goldbugs took on the Chandler Lions in the first round of area games at Enid. Like the Ladybugs, the Goldbugs won Thursday although they had a tougher time. It didn't help that many of the Goldbugs are recovering from illness which sapped their energy and stamina. In the final quarter, Chandler cut the Alva lead to three points, but the Goldbugs persevered and won 57-48.

The Goldbugs led 11-8 at the end of the first quarter and widened their lead to 28-22 at halftime. Both Alva and Chandler heated up with five three-pointers apiece in the third quarter, and the Goldbugs held a 51-42 edge going into the final period. The last quarter was a defensive battle with Alva unable to score except at the free throw line. The Goldbugs had six points while the Lions had five in the fourth quarter for a final of Alva 57, Chandler 48.

Jaxon Jones was first to score in the game, and Alva went on an 8-0 scoring run before Chandler made good on a basket. Two treys by the Lions kept them in the game. Meanwhile Kyler Penco scored twice from three point range and added a basket. Weston Tucker added a free throw, and Alva led 11-8.

In the second quarter Aiden Ruiz scored five points for Alva before Chandler added any. Penco made five points during the quarter, and Daylon Malone stepped up with six including a trey. The Goldbugs led 28-22 at the halftime break.

In the third Gaven Miller shocked the Goldbugs with four three-pointers. Alva was also able to score from beyond the arc with Malone and Weston Tucker each making two treys along with one from Penco. Two baskets by Penco and one by Malone added to the 51-43 lead at the end of the third quarter.

In the final period, Chandler narrowed Alva's lead to three points at 51-48, but Penco hit four from the free throw line. Ruiz and Malone each added a charity point, and that was enough for the 57-48 win.

Wrap-Up

Desiree Morehead

Alva senior Jaxon Jones (21) takes a backwards jump shot over the Chandler defense.

The Goldbugs will take their 23-4 record into round two of the area playoffs this afternoon (Friday). Alva will take on the winner of the Cascia Hall vs. Washington game from Thursday night. The winner of Friday's game will advance to the area finals on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. in Enid.

Penco led the Goldbugs with 24 points followed by Malone with 15. Ruiz had nine points, Tucker seven and Jones two.

Chandler was led by Miller who made five three-point shots for 15. He was followed by Cael Reherman with 11 and Zalen Robinson with ten. Brady Butler had seven and Bradley Belonchik five.