The JV boys’ basketball team ended the fourth quarter tied 46–46 and eventually lost to the Washington Eagles 53–50 during the four minutes of overtime at Battle of the Birds on Jan. 13 at Kezar Stadium.

The Cardinals had a slow start to the game. Lowell struggled to keep up with the Eagles’ combative offense and could not easily defend their basket due to their lack of energy, according to sophomore guard Andrew Ren. Regardless, with the Eagles committing multiple fouls, the Cardinals were able to accumulate six points from free throws. By the end of the quarter, the Cardinals trailed 14–6.

During the second quarter, the Cardinals were aggressive and took the lead from the Eagles halfway through the quarter. The Cardinals strengthened their defense and picked up the pace with successful three-point shots. The Cardinals ended the first half with a six point lead at 29–23.

Starting the second half of the game, the Cardinals controlled the game by maintaining the speed and limiting turnovers. They scored 10 points and pushed their lead to seven points. “We started to get more loose and made better plays and decisions on the court,” sophomore guard Darren Loo said. Lowell ended the third quarter ahead 39–32.

However, in the fourth quarter, Lowell struggled defensively. They were unable to prevent the opposing team from pushing the ball towards their basket and failed to keep their positioning on the court. With 21 seconds left on the clock, the Eagles were able to make a three-point shot. The regulation game period ended with both teams tied at 46–46.

The Cardinals began to lose to their concentration during overtime and missed the majority of their free throw attempts. The Cardinals managed to score four points, but it was not enough. The team fell short and lost 53–50.

The Cardinals played again today against the Wallenberg Bulldogs and won 36–9. They currently hold a regular season record of 1–1. The team will face the Balboa Buccaneers on Friday at 4 p.m. at Lowell.