Down just six at the half, the Carbon Dinos didn’t have enough as they were bounced from the 3A Playoffs by the Grand Red Devils, 69-56, ending their season.
Grand built its lead to 20 multiple times in the second half, but Carbon came right back with multiple runs, including a Ryker Smith three at the buzzer, keeping the game close.
Both teams struggled offensively in the first half, with Carbon shooting 26% and Grand just 35%. The Red Devils took a 24-18 lead into halftime.
Derek Hillam led the Dinos with 19 points after scoring just two points in the first half. He shot 7-12 in the second half, keeping the Dinos within striking distance. Ryan Gagon poured in 18 points on an efficient 4-7 from the floor, 3-6 from downtown, while adding 7-9 from the free throw line. Both Jordan Vasquez and Smith added six apiece.
The Dinos finish the season with an overall record of 6-17, including a 5-7 mark in Region 14 action. This season marks the second straight season the Dinos made the playoffs.
