MCGUFFEY, Ohio (WLIO) — Upper Scioto Valley Rams earned a share of the Northwest Central Conference title Friday night with a 55-41 victory over the Hardin Northern Polar Bears at Alumni Fieldhouse.

Upper Scioto Valley entered the contest at 7-1 in league play, while Hardin Northern stood at 5-3.

The Rams also carried momentum into the matchup, having won four straight meetings against the Polar Bears.

Beau Sanders set the tone early, driving to the basket for a layup to give the Rams an early boost.

Alex Gatchel followed with a cut to the rim, finishing for two of his eight points on the night.

Later, Caidan Lowery connected from beyond the arc, contributing 12 points for the Rams.

Hardin Northern answered as Jake Cook converted a three-point play to keep the Polar Bears within striking distance.

But Upper Scioto Valley pulled away behind Sanders, who finished with a game-high 26 points.

McCain Underwood assisted on one of Sanders’ key baskets during the decisive stretch as the Rams built separation in the second half.

With the 55-41 win, Upper Scioto Valley secures a share of the NWCC crown.

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