North County Boys Survive and Advance after Wild District Semifinal against DeSoto

(Bonne Terre) The North County boys basketball team held off a thrilling late-game push from DeSoto in the Class 5 District 2 semifinals as the Raiders eeked out a 63-59 win tonight on J98.

The Dragons stayed within striking distance for the entire game and had it down to a one-score game in the fourth quarter.

In the final minute, a North County turnover opened the door for DeSoto.

Clinging to a two-point lead and with possession, another Raiders’ turnover gave DeSoto an opportunity to tie it or take the lead, but sophomore Jobe Smith came up with the 2 Dribble Basketball Play of the Game for North County.

A pair of Karter Kekec free throws sealed the win for North County as they held on for the four-point win.

Raiders’ head coach Jimmy Palmer says there were a few positives to take away, but ultimately they need to tighten things up if they want to accomplish their goals this postseason.