Boys Basketball: Tough defense powers Andrew to Kankakee title

Updated: December 30, 2011 10:50PM

It wasn’t pretty, but No. 9 Andrew came back to beat Milwaukee South 45-44 in the 3A/4A championship in the 62nd annual Kankakee Holiday Tournament Friday night.

With 1:21 remaining, Andrew’s defense forced turned a turnover that tournament MVP Jubril Adekoya converted with a flopping layup and a free throw for a 45-44 lead. Then Mike Bobek made a steal to get the ball back for the Thunderbolts (9-0).

Jawad Adekoya tied the game for Andrew with a pair of free throws, his first two points, with 2:51 remaining.

“We knew it would be tough from last year,” said Andrew coach Mike O’Halloran, who leaped into the air as time expired sealing the victory. “We played what should have been the championship in the first round last year.”

Jubril Adekoya led the Thunderbolts with 20 points and 14 rebounds.

Before the game, Milwaukee South coach Ty Moseler said, ``Last year we were able to hold their big guy to 24. We have to do that again. He is going to score he is so big and strong.

“But that have some others [Glorind Liska] who can score, too. Their lake and size can cause some problem.”

Defending champion Milwauke South (6-2) was led by Shawn Luckette with 17 points.

The first half saw nine ties or lead changes with Milwaukee South going in at the half with a 28-25 lead. The Cardinals stretched that to 39-33 at the end of the third quarter.

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