Barberton — The Elyria Pioneers outlasted the Canton McKinley Bulldogs 50-46 to advance to their first regional appearance since 2017.
The first quarter was a sign of what was to come in the contest — a game of runs. Canton McKinley opened the game with a 4-0 run before Elyria answered with a 6-0 run, only for the Bulldogs to respond with a 6-0 run of their own. Elyria ended the quarter with a Kendyll Compton three-pointer but trailed 10-9 after the opening frame.
In the second quarter, the Bulldogs extended their lead. The scoring came from a pack of Bulldogs, as six different players had at least one basket find the bottom of the net. Defensively, 6-foot-8 senior Jamar Keyes made it difficult for the Pioneers to score inside, blocking multiple Elyria shots…