MEXICO – Undefeated Morgan Concrete will attempt to defend its title in the Mexico Rec Basketball League Sunday. The Concreters will take on newcomer Dave’s Sauna of South Paris at 11 a.m. at Mountain Valley High School for the championship.

In last week’s playoff action, the Rebels (4) of Oxford Hills barely escaped an upset in edging winless Dan’s Automotive (5), 69-65. It was a fine come-from-behind effort, led by Josh Powell who tossed in 24 points, including four 3-pointers. Brian Cloutier (14) and Dave Zutter (12) aided in the win. JT Taylor had an outstanding floor game for Dan’s. He wound up with 20 points. Adding to the attack were Brian Carrier (17), Mark Cyr (12) and Steve Collette (10).

Morgan advanced to the finals Sunday by defeating The Rebels, 96-79. Scott New, named the league’s MVP, poured in 34 points, including six from 3-point range. Zach Fergola, named the league’s Most Improved Player, added 17, while Todd Wheeler, Eric Canwell and Kevin Gallant added 15 each. Gallant has been a clutch performer throughout the season, along with backcourt mate Craig Milledge who broke his hand recently and is sidelined for the playoffs. Milledge was named Playmaker of the Year during the award presentations at halftime of the recent All-Star game. The Rebels were led by Josh Powell with 24, followed by Corey Mains (22) and Zutter (21).

In game 2 Sunday, Dave’s Sauna (3) upset Stone Mountain Mortgage (2), 87-81. Dave’s got off to a hot start, leading by as many as 25 points, but holding only a 43-34 edge at halftime. Stone Mountain, the recipient of the league’s Sportsmanship Award, was hoping for an additiional comeback in the second half but was foiled by the shooting of Miguel Gonzalez, Will Gravier and Adam Stack, Dave’s increased the lead to 20. The Mountainmen had one last spurt left starting at the 8-minute mark and cut the gap to 2 and was in possession of the ball. But a turnover, several fouls, and a couple of missed shots allowed The Saunamen to escape with the victory. Gonzales sparked the winners with 28 points. Stack added 20. Gravier, the league’s Defensive Player of the Year, contributed 18 more.

The MV Rec All-Stars played their annual exhibition game against the Mountain Valley High School seniors and recent graduates. The varsity was able to display its Class B State Championship Gold Ball throughout the evening. The game was a prelim to the Harlem Rockets basketball show. The league was able to provide sizable donations to the boys and girls varsity teams and also to the MV Athletic Boosters.

Tourney upcoming

RUMFORD – The Mountain Valley Rec Men’s Basketball League is hosting a 16-team invitational tournament, March 30-31 and April 1.

Profits from the tourney will again benefit The American Lung Association of Maine and its annual Trek Across Maine. Last year’s event raised $2,300.

The 16-team field will be divided into an A and B Division, depending on the competitiveness and age. The A Division will play at MV High School on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The B Division will compete Friday and Saturday at MV Middle School, and MV High School on Sunday.

It’ll be a round robin format of 3 games followed by a single-elimination playoff round of the top four clubs in each group. A champion will be crowned in each division. Last year, the River Valley Merchants of Rumford defeated Team Riggs of Winthrop in the A finals, while Reunited of Kennebunk knocked off North Franklin of Strong-Phillips in the B Division.

In addition to the games, there will be three shooting contests, foul shooting, 3-point, and slam dunk.

More information on the tourney can be obtained by contacting Eddie Paterson, league commissioner, at 364-9352, 364-2595, or ehpnef@exploremaine.com.

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