OBSERVER Staff Report

ELLICOTTVILLE — Early on in Friday’s CCAA East 2 boys basketball matchup between Ellicottville (11-2, 5-0) and North Collins (5-7, 3-2), it was North Collins who jumped ahead to a lead, thanks to plenty of second-chance opportunities. Later on in the first quarter, it was Ellicottville who was able to pull back in front, behind an 8-0 run to end the opening frame, giving Ellicottville a 15-12 lead — which they would never relinquish.

With a slim lead at the end of one, Ellicottville was able to really hit their stride in the second quarter, outscoring North Collins 19-4 as they were able to find their rhythm, using the strength of the second quarter to pull away for good.

Leif Jimmerson led the way for Ellicottville with 18 points, five rebounds, four assists, and four steals, while Clayton Rowland had nine points, 10 boards, and four steals.

North Collins was led by sophomore Chris Smith, who had a double-double with 12 points and 10 boards, while Tyler Robinson had six points, 14 rebounds, and six blocks in the loss.

Ellicottville is next in action on Tuesday, Jan. 28 at 7:30 p.m. against the Randolph Cardinals, in what will be “one of our biggest tasks of the year,” according to Ellicottville coach Dave McCann. North Collins will see Global Concepts at North Collins High School for a 5 p.m. tip off on the same day.