This game was supposed to be different for the Syracuse-Dunbar-Avoca boys' basketball team, but it didn't turn out that way as the Falls City Tigers topped the Rockets 41-36 in the subdistrict final on Thursday.
Falls City did it with defense again by holding the Rockets to under 40 points, just as the Tigers had done during the season opener against S-D-A back in December.
Usual scoring stalwarts Adam Vogt and Nick Reed were held to a combined five points in the first half. Both picked up their game in the final two periods as S-D-A took the lead in the third quarter, but Falls City made plays late, hit free throws and ended up with the win.
It was likely the season finale for the Rockets, since a berth in the state tourney via wild card position is unlikely. S-D-A finishes the season at 19-3.