The New Rivalry: Hawks lose to Bucs 66-63

Spruce Creek was led by Max Oles, who scored a game-high 21 points.

By Ray Boone
| 10:10 p.m. January 9, 2020

Spruce Creek's Max Oles blocks a shot against Mainland. Photo by Ray Boone

Spruce Creek's bench celebrates after a 3-pointer. Photo by Ray Boone

Spruce Creek coach David Howard watches his team from the bench. Photo by Ray Boone

Hawks guard Kendall Bean shoots a layup against Mainland. Photo by Ray Boone

Hawks guard Max Oles drives to the hoop against Mainland. Photo by Ray Boone

Ormond Beach Observer
Sports

In the final moments of Spruce Creek's battle with Mainland, the Hawks heaved a deep 3-pointer at the buzzer. The shot bounced off the back of the rim and fell to the court.

Despite 21 points from Hawks senior guard Max Oles, the Buccaneers held on to beat Spruce Creek 66-63 the night of Thursday, Jan. 9, at Spruce Creek High School.

For the past several seasons, Mainland's primary area rival has been Atlantic. However, with former Atlantic head coach David Howard's move to Spruce Creek — his alma matter and the site of his first head coaching gig — in May 2019, a new rivalry began on Thursday night.