Epps’ clutch free throws lift S. Allegheny

By JOSE NEGRON

jnegron@yourmvi.com

South Allegheny’s Bryce Epps isn’t one to let his critics faze him. 

So when he went to the free throw line with the game tied at 46-46 with 19.1 seconds on the clock and the Avonworth student section chanting, “He can’t shoot,” Epps wasn’t going to be denied. 

The standout freshman connected on both of his foul shots to put No. 3 South Allegheny ahead, and the Gladiators’ defense held strong in a 48-46 triumph over the No. 14 Antelopes in a WPIAL Class 3A first-round matchup Friday night at Mt. Lebanon High School. 

It was the school’s first playoff victory since 2001.

“I hear them rooting against us, but I also hear our student section rooting for us. I don’t pay attention to that stuff, though, I gotta play basketball,” said Epps, who scored all seven of his points in the fourth quarter. 

Epps hit his first basket three minutes into the final frame, draining a 3-pointer that put SA ahead, 43-40. From then on, the nerves were gone and Epps focused on simply converting and helping his team earn a win. 

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