In each of the first three overtimes, the Pembroke Academy boys basketball team had the ball with a chance to win it at the buzzer. And each time, the Spartans came up short.
But senior Shea Shackford finally ended the drama on his home court Tuesday night with a fading 3-pointer at the buzzer as Pembroke Academy defeated Merrimack Valley 57-54 in four overtimes.
Out of a timeout, Shackford drove from the baseline toward the wing, and got the shot off over the outstretched arms of the Merrimack Valley defense.
“Everyone was up on their feet. Just a great high school game,” said Pembroke Academy coach Rich Otis. “I have to give Merrimack Valley credit. The game could have gone either way. We were fortunate to win it with a buzzer-beater.”
Shackford led Pembroke Academy with 22 points. Mike Pittman hit some big second-half shots, and finished with 10 points. Preston Wallace scored 9 points, Cooper Gilman had 7 and starting point guard Alex Francoeur played well running the offense and leading the defense. Shondell Hadley and Cove Boucher were strong off the bench.
For Merrimack Valley, Griffin Wheeler scored 19 points and Ethan Drapeau had a strong rebounding game.