NEW ALBANY – The West Lincoln Bears traveled north Saturday to participate in the boys’ Kiwanis Classic where they suffered a disappointing 76-72 overtime loss to the Biggersville Lions.

“We played extremely hard, but had some costly turnovers at crucial times” said West Lincoln basketball coach Lane Young. “We learned a lot about during our time here, and I was really proud of our effort. This will really help us in the long run.”

Biggersville 76, West Lincoln 72 

The Bears and Lions battled head-to-head in a classic heavyweight bout Saturday as both team were very familiar with each other since playing in the state tournament last year in Jackson.

West Lincoln (18-4) and Biggersville provided plenty of excitement as both schools fought hard as the Lion took 35-30 lead into halftime.

In the second half, the battle heated up as neither team would let the other gain the upper hand, and the game was forced into overtime after ending regulation tied 63-all.

In overtime, the Lions managed to gain their second wind as the outscored the Bears 13-9 to escape with the win.

Ronnie Edwards was the top offensive leader for the Bears with 18 points, leading four players in double figures. Sam Bivens contributed 15 points and led on the boards with eight rebounds. Duane Marshall netted 14 points, and Keshaun London added another 12.

Jaylon Gaines pumped in a game-high 25 points to lead the Lions. Daniel Simmons chipped in 17 points, and Emmanuel Simmons and Darian Barnett provided 10 points apiece.