Bad weather delayed the game a few days. COVID-19 limited the fans and activities. But, the Kent State Columbiana County Classic took place Feb. 18 featuring the boys basketball teams from Salem and East Liverpool high schools.
The series was tied at 2-2, but the visiting Salem Quakers came from behind in the final seconds of the game to win 66-64.
Following the game, the team received the traveling plaque from Donald Bean, assistant director of the Enrollment Management and Student Services Department on the East Liverpool campus.
Because of COVID safety protocols, Kent State was unable to engage the limited number of fans with activities that have become traditional at the County Classic: door prizes, giveaways, a t-shirt toss and interactions with Flash, the Kent State mascot.
Hopefully, the activities will return when the two teams meet again on Jan. 4, 2022.
The Kent State County Classic represents the strong foundation of learning in East Liverpool and Salem, as each community is home to one of the university鈥檚 two Columbiana County campuses.
Cutline A: Donald Bean (far right), representing the East Liverpool Campus, presented the County Classic traveling plaque to the Salem Quakers, who won this year鈥檚 contest over the East Liverpool Potters.
Cutline B: Cheers for the Potters!
Cutline C: Quakers during pre-game warm-ups.
Cutline D: A Potter prepares for the game.