A nonsection boys basketball game turned into a marathon last night.

Four overtimes, to be exact.

The Shenango High boys team, though, pulled ahead to earn a 101-97 victory over Ellwood City Lincoln.

“We’d go up and they’d come back or they’d go up and we’d come back,” Wildcats coach Bob McQuiston said.

It was his team’s fifth game in six days.

“Coming into tonight I knew my guys were tired,” McQuiston said. “My hat’s off to my guys. They sucked it up and didn’t quit. They showed heart and toughness.

“A lot of guys could have said they couldn’t go on. I’m proud of their effort. They ran on hearts and guts tonight.”

Shenango (3-2) took a 29-26 lead at the half before the Wolverines (1-2) outscored the Wildcats 23-17 in the fourth quarter to give each team 67 at the end of regulation.

“It was a great game,” Ellwood City coach Jason Bumblis said. “Both teams played outstanding, and when two teams play eight quarters everyone is a winner.

“Give Shenango credit. Their height didn’t get tired and they held on.”

Shenango’s big man shined as Rich Gaston led all scorers with 40 points and 17 rebounds.

“We knew were had the size advantage,” McQuiston said. “I thought our guards did a good job getting the big guys the ball. Gaston went to the hoop strong with the ball and had a great game.”

Bryan Chieze followed with 29 points, including three 3-pointers. He also contributed seven rebounds and nine assists, while Mike Murcko added 15 markers.

Ellwood City hit 13 3-pointers in the game. Anthony Sainato and Chris Weisz each had four. Sainato scored 22 points and Weisz chipped in with 15.

Chaz Roth had three 3-pointers and led the Wolverines with 27 points. Mike Sacco followed with 26.