OXFORD — Talawanda’s boys’ basketball team fought back from a nine point halftime deficit – took the lead in the fourth quarter – but could not hold on for the win. The Braves dropped their season opener against Badin, 43-42.

The game was held at Talawanda High School on Friday, Dec. 2.

Talawanda struggled offensively throughout the game, shooting just 30 percent going 15 of 50. Their difficulties were particularly evident early in the game as the Braves went nearly seven minutes of the first quarter before hitting their first field goal. Fortunately for the Braves, Badin also had difficulties on the offensive end of the floor and the period ended with Talawanda down, 4-2.

Badin picked up the pace offensively in the second quarter and slowly built a nine point lead by halftime, 19-10. Talawanda also started to get better shots in the second period, but could not convert on several good opportunities.

Despite the halftime deficit, the Braves clawed their way back into the game in the third quarter. They outscored the Rams 15-11 and trailed by five to start the final period, 30-25. Midway through the final frame, they took the lead, 35-34.

Badin, who trailed by a point on their final possession, scored in the final seconds of the game to take the one-point victory.

Evan James and Justin Boggs led the Braves with 14 points each. James added six steals and three assists. Josh Dewitt came off the bench and pulled down eight rebounds and had two blocked shots. Ty Hornsby had seven rebounds and Boggs added six boards.

Badin’s John Marot led the Rams with 17 points and 10 rebounds.

The Braves were scheduled to stay at home taking on Taylor High School on Tuesday, Dec. 6, before going on the road to Franklin on Saturday. Talawanda will play its first SWOC match-up on Friday, Dec. 16, against Little Miami.