Michael Young - Sports Editor

Anonio Walker is leading the Blue Devils toward the playoffs.

Michael Young - Sports Editor

Senior point guard Quantel Mack is intent upon the game.

Michael Young - Sports Editor

Rokeem Williams racked up 16 points in the game against Fox Creek High School.

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The Williston-Elko High varsity boys and Fox Creek High were making baskets at an alarmingly even rate in its Jan. 26 basketball region meeting.

With the team tied at 51-51 in the final seconds, Blue Devil senior center Antonio Walker hit a free throw to put his team ahead by one point.

With the seconds ticking away, Fox Creek High had a shot at victory on a late basket, but the attempt missed at the buzzer giving the Blue Devils a 52-51 nail-biting win.

The late-game drama capped an otherwise frightful fourth quarter performance by the Blue Devils.

Leading 46-39 going into the fourth quarter, the Blue Devils connected only three-of-16 shots during the last eight minutes of play.

Williston-Elko High coach Devin Liferidge said the team was lucky to get the win.

"This game was certainly closer than what we expected," Liferidge said. "When we have opportunities to put teams away. we need to do just that. We can't afford to let teams hang around. We had some breakdowns which included several turnovers. The effort is there, but we have to do a better job of executing."

Against Fox Creek High, the Blue Devil backcourt made a huge contribution, especially under the play of Rokeem Williams.

Williams scored consistently from the perimeter, going six-of-nine for 16 points, including two three-pointers.

Senior point guard Quantel Mack led the team with nine assists. Mack also corralled the Predators with eight points and six steals.

Walker had another strong outing in the paint, finishing with 15 points and 13 boards. Others playing well included Rasean Wilson with seven points and six assists. Shamel Harley had four points, including a three-pointer.

"We're certainly capable of playing better than we did tonight. Luckily for us, we came away with a victory. This win keeps us in a good position in the region race," said Liferidge.