Henderson Bowl Thriller: Green Valley Edges Basic in Overtime Epic!

The air crackled with anticipation Friday night as cross-town rivals Green Valley and Basic collided in the highly anticipated Henderson Bowl. What unfolded was nothing short of a gridiron classic, a testament to resilience, strategic brilliance, and the sheer thrill of high school football. In a contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last play, Green Valley emerged victorious, outlasting Basic 29-28 in a dramatic overtime finish.

The game began with the Basic Wolves roaring out of the gate, seizing an early 14-0 lead and putting the Gators on their heels.

Quarterback Keishon Smith was an immediate threat, connecting with running back Chris Johnson for a 20-yard touchdown pass that set the tone. Smith then showcased his dual-threat capabilities, rushing for an additional score, leaving Green Valley scrambling to find their footing as they trailed by two touchdowns at halftime.

But the Gators, under the leadership of coach Clay Mauro, were far from defeated.

They ignited a fierce second-half comeback, slowly chipping away at Basic’s advantage. Brock Gaffin, a pivotal player for Green Valley, kickstarted their resurgence with a crucial 16-yard touchdown reception. Moments later, he turned defender, snatching an interception that swung momentum firmly in Green Valley’s favor.

The Gators capitalized on the turnover, with Noah Shumpert plunging into the end zone from 1 yard out, leveling the score at 14-14.

The seesaw battle continued. Basic’s Smith once again found the end zone with a 1-yard run, pushing the Wolves ahead 21-14. Not to be outdone, Green Valley responded with Bryson Sparks’ powerful 1-yard touchdown run, tying the game at 21 and forcing an electrifying overtime period.

The stage was set for an unforgettable climax.

In overtime, Basic seized the initiative, with Keishon Smith delivering his third rushing touchdown of the night, giving the Wolves a 28-21 lead. The pressure was immense, but Green Valley remained undeterred. They matched Basic’s score with Brock Gaffin’s second touchdown reception, setting up the defining moment.

Instead of kicking for the tie, Coach Mauro made a bold decision: go for two and the win. Quarterback Brock Shehan, executing a daring fake field goal, sprinted to the pylon for the game-winning two-point conversion, sealing Green Valley’s thrilling 29-28 victory and sending their sideline into a frenzy.

Beyond the Henderson Bowl’s drama, other prep football teams across the region delivered impressive performances.

Faith Lutheran dominated Las Vegas with a decisive 42-7 win, while Durango showcased their prowess by defeating Bonanza 42-6. Sierra Vista shut out Clark 44-0, and Silverado put on an offensive clinic against Canyon Springs, securing a commanding 56-0 victory. Virgin Valley also notched a convincing 40-0 win over Pahrump Valley.

Boulder City proved too strong for Chaparral, winning 34-7, and Moapa Valley delivered another shutout, crushing SLAM Nevada 41-0.

In a non-league matchup, Cactus Shadows from Arizona bested Foothill 27-14. Rancho kept Eldorado scoreless in a 30-0 triumph, and in an interstate battle, Pine Ridge from Florida defeated Western 16-6. These games highlight the talent and competitive spirit thriving in Nevada’s high school football scene, promising an exciting season ahead.