Last-second 3-pointer by Taron Morris secures win for Pintos

While running a play at practice Thursday morning, Pinto Taron Morris puts up a shot. Morris was the leading scorer against Moberly with 16 points, including a last-second 3-pointer that secured the win for California, 43-40. Photo by April Arnett.

By April Arnett

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

California’s varsity boys’ basketball team participated in the Missouri National Guard Shootout Dec. 27 at Fleming Fieldhouse, Jefferson City, where the Pintos came away with a 43-40 win secured by a last-second 3-point shot by Taron Morris.

Photo by April Arnett

California Pinto Head Coach Blair Scanlon, at left, instructs the varsity players during practice Thursday morning at California High School.

California led 12-10 after the first quarter, however, Moberly scored 10 points to the Pintos' eight in the second quarter to even the score 20-20 at the half. The Spartans outscored the Pintos 12-11 in the third quarter to lead 32-31 going into the final frame. It all came down to the last seconds of the game, after Moberly hit two free throws to tie the game at 40-40. With just one second remaining, Morris nailed a 3-pointer to give California a 43-40 edge. Moberly called a timeout, then missed a last-second shot from past mid-court, to leave the win with the Pintos.

California Democrat