MARYSVILLE, Ohio -- Junior Leah Brown’s fourth quarter tear pushed Marysville to an OCC victory Friday night over Thomas Worthington. After a slow first three quarters, the Monarch’s exploded for 19 points on their way to a 43-31 victory. 

Both teams struggled offensively in the first, scoring a combined eight points in the first four minutes. Thomas Worthington boasted a 10-7 lead thanks to a basket by sophomore Katelyn Breedlove and two free throws by senior Jocelyn Ramos-Chears. A layup by Brown cut the lead to one by a score of 10-9 at the end of the first. 

The Cardinals held Marysville to just four points in the second quarter and expanded their lead to seven entering halftime (20-13). A major factor in the second quarter was the absence of junior Ava Krutowskis who was on the bench in foul trouble for the Monarchs.  

Krutowskis made a major impact immediately in the third scoring four points early. The Monarchs chipped away at the Cardinal’s lead but a two by Breedlove gave TW a 27-25 lead headed into the final frame. 

Brown ignited the Monarch offense in the fourth quarter leading to a short lived one point advantage. A basket by junior Ladan Elmi tied the game with approximately three minutes left but the Cardinals would be held scoreless the remainder of the game. 

Marysville shot 10/13 from the free throw line in the fourth period which ultimately led to their victory. 

Let’s take a look at Friday’s top performers!

Leah Brown (G / Marysville / 2023) - Brown was the most consistent player on the floor for Marysville Friday and was calm amid an offensive struggle. The junior scored 10 fourth quarter points and collected a handful of rebounds to will her team to a victory. She is a great ball handler and makes excellent decisions with the ball. We were most impressed with her motor and willingness to take on any role the team needed.

Ava Krutowskis (G/F / Marysville / 2023) - Despite being slightly undersized in the post, Krutowskis still dominated. She is comfortable playing with her back to the basket but is versatile enough to play the perimeter too. She is a clear leader of this team as the Monarchs wavered in the first half with her on the bench. The junior makes a huge impact on both ends of the floor and has a lot of potential.

Jocelyn Ramos-Chears (5’11 F / Thomas Worthington / 2022) - Ramos-Chears is an intriguing forward. She is lengthy and can impact plays on both ends on the floor, including a nice shot blocking ability. She can attack the basket off the dribble or play with her back to the rim and rebounds well. Her shot was a bit inconsistent but with a little work, she could be the go-to offensive threat for the Cardinals.