Windermere bests Olympia in playoff upset

Before this game, the Olympia Titans had lost only two games all season to cruise to a 26-2 overall record. One of those wins came Jan. 27, when the Titans edged out crosstown rival Windermere 70-67 at home.

However, the Wolverines avenged that loss when it mattered most — in the Class 7A, Region 2 state basketball tournament.

Windermere’s defense paved the way to a 66-51 victory over the Olympia to keep its state championship dream alive. Windermere (No. 4) is scheduled to face No. 3 Oak Ridge at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 24.

The Titans held the advantage early, ending the first quarter with a two-point lead and building to a 28-23 lead going into the half.

However, through halftime adjustments and sheer will, the Wolverines climbed back to a 45-45 tie heading into the final frame. And then, with a smothering defense that kept Olympia scoreless for more than five minutes at the end of the game, Windermere pulled out a 66-51 win.