The Limestone boys basketball run to the state final four in Class 3A was doused today by the top ranked team in the state, Morgan Park.  Limestone could not compete with the larger, quicker Mustangs, often times unable to even get a shot off during its possessions.  The Rockets hit a bucket early in the second quarter at Carver Arena today and trailed 11-9, but got no closer.  Not even the precense of Limestone alum Jim Thome could save the local team from the 70-49 defeat.

At the half, Limestone trailed by 10 points, 28-18.  Senior star Hank Mathews was scoreless from the field and had his only points from the free throw line (pictured).  Kendall Davis scored 8 in the half for the Rockets.  Morgan Park's defense stifled Limestone, leading to 11 first half turnovers.

Morgan Park came out smoking after the half and outscored Limestone, 26-7, in the third quarter, squashing any Limestone comeback thoughts.  The Mustangs rolled to a 32-point fourth quarter lead before calling off the dogs.  Mathews, named to the second team Class 3A All State team (along with Washington's Alec Peters), finished with 9 points.  Davis and Terrence Shelby had 8 for the turnover prone (18 for the game) Rockets.  All stater Billy Garrett score 15 for the winners.

Still, a great season for Limestone, which played the underdog role throughout most of its charmed post season, beating Manual, Washington, Mendota, Peoria (Central) High and Wheaton St. Francis to earn its first state trip.  The Rockets play for third place Saturday at 12:15 pm against Chicago (Orr).  Good luck, Limestone!

Doc Watson