Austintown sport briefs

Despite holding Liberty 24 points below its average, the Fitch boys varsity basketball team lost 60-56 before Christmas break.

The Falcons led 25-23 at the half and maintained the advantage until the end of the third quarter. Liberty battled back to take the lead with one minute to go and converted free throws down the stretch.

Leading the way for Fitch were Dan Chepke with a season-high 25 points, followed by Will Mahone with 19 points. Fitch converted 15-of-18 free throws.

The squad recently defeated Hubbard 57-55 in double overtime. This was the fifth overtime period they have played in four games.

Fitch jumped on the Eagles quickly only to see Hubbard battle back to tie it late in the fourth quarter.

Sophomore Jessie Driver hit a game-tying shot with no time left to send it into overtime.

Leading the way for Fitch was Mahone with 22 points, followed by Chepke with 13 and Driver with 10.

Senior Trevor Yacavone lead all players with 10 rebounds.

The Falcons forced Hubbard into 15 turnovers, along with eight steals.