Newton remains undefeated at the buzzer

Newton remains undefeated at the buzzer

By Robert Alfonso Jr.

Norcross, GA – Newton has been in close games all season. Saturday was no different. The Rams beat Peachtree Ridge, 60-58, at Norcross High the host of the On the Radar Hoops Tip-off Classic.

Marcus Smith, who finished with 22 points, scored the game-winning layup driving right. Newton (3-0) remains undefeated.

“All our games have been close,” Rams coach Barry Browner said. “This group is growing together and still learning each other.”

The winning play was called by Browner’s assistants. They watched things on film to help identify a flaw Smith can explore. The senior point guard was getting to the basket as ease the entire night. He exploded to the basket before taking the contact and finishing.

“We knew Marcus could get downhill,” Browner said. “Coming in here to get this win, against a tough Peachtree Ridge team. They are pretty good.”

Newton came into the contest battle tested with close games against McEachern, Alcovy and now Peachtree Ridge. 

Bryce Jenkins chipped in with 20 points for the Rams. Jordan Green added 15 points. 

Peachtree Ridge (1-1) showed its grit and toughness in the feisty half holding a 28-25 halftime lead. The Lions were the aggressors from the opening tip. They were hitting shots and applying pressure. Derwin Hodge spread the floor hitting jumpers and three-pointers early. This helped open scoring gaps for PTR’s guards.

Peachtree Ridge’s offense was stalled behind Newton’s solid defensive effort. The Lions battled back, after losing its lead, in the fourth quarter. They just couldn’t stop Smith from getting to the rim.

Malik Rideout led Peachtree Ridge with 18 points. Hodge, a South Carolina State signee, finished with 11 points and unofficially 5 blocks.