VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS: #7 John I. Leonard edges #2 Spanish River for District Title

Feb 12, 2012 -- 6:40pm

By Wells Dusenbury

The last time John I. Leonard and Spanish River squared off, the Lancers let a double-digit 4th quarter lead slip away en route to an overtime loss to the Sharks. John I. Leonard didn't make the same mistake again. Behind hot shooting and timely defensive stops, the Lancers held off Spanish River 53-51 for the 10-8A District Championship.

John I. Leonard took the lead midway through the 3rd quarter and never gave it back. The Sharks made it a one-possession game on numerous occasions, but everytime it looked like they'd jump ahead, the Lancers responded with a back-breaking shot, pushing the lead back. Spanish River had a chance to tie the game with 30 seconds left, but threw it away on their possession and never had another shot.

With the win, John I. Leonard will host Dwyer in the 8A Regional Quarterfinals, while Spanish River will hit the road to take on District 9-8A champion Jupiter.

VIDEO: John I. Leonard knocks off Spanish River for the District Title