The regular season ended on a high note for the Rochester Rockets.
On Friday night at 7 p.m., the Rockets hosted the Columbia Eagles at Rochester High School for their final regular-season matchup. In a fast-paced, physical contest filled with momentum swings, Rochester pulled away late to secure a 70–62 victory on its home floor.
First Half: Momentum Swings Early
Rochester controlled the opening tip and wasted no time getting on the board, converting its first shot attempt to ignite the home crowd. Columbia answered immediately with a basket of its own, signaling that the night would be a competitive battle from start to finish.
The Eagles found their rhythm quickly in the first quarter. Strong defensive pressure disrupted Rochester’s offensive flow, while Columbia capitalized on efficient shooting to build an early lead. At the end of the first quarter, the Eagles were in front, 18–11.
The second quarter told a different story.
Rochester increased its intensity on both ends of the court, pushing the pace and attacking the glass. The Rockets thrived on rebounds and transition opportunities, turning defensive stops into points. Meanwhile, Columbia struggled to convert shot attempts during this stretch.
With energy building inside the gym, Rochester surged ahead before halftime, taking a 35–30 lead into the break.
Second Half: Rockets Hold Off Late Push
The Rockets came out of halftime with the same aggressive mindset that fueled their second-quarter comeback. Applying consistent defensive pressure, Rochester looked to generate steals and disrupt Columbia’s rhythm.
But the Eagles refused to back down.
Columbia continued to attack the basket, converting key layups to stay within striking distance. The pace remained intense, with both teams trading baskets in a competitive third quarter. By the end of the period, Rochester maintained a narrow 48–44 advantage.
Fourth Quarter: Execution Seals the Win
The final quarter brought heightened energy from both benches as each team made its push. Physical play led to shooting fouls and multiple trips to the free-throw line.
Rochester faced challenges at the stripe, while Columbia capitalized on its opportunities to keep the deficit manageable. However, the Rockets answered when it mattered most, knocking down crucial two-point shots and timely three-pointers to maintain control.
In the closing seconds, the Eagles were forced to foul in an attempt to extend the game. Rochester handled the pressure, closing out the contest to secure a 70–62 victory.
Turning the Page to Regionals
With the win, the Rochester Rockets finish the regular season on a strong note in front of their home crowd. Now, their focus shifts to postseason play.
Rochester will return to action Wednesday, February 25, at Williamsville High School at 7:30 p.m. for the Regional Semifinals.
The regular season may be complete—but for the Rockets, the most important games are just beginning.
#5 Eli Cox Interview after victory over Columbia Eagles
#5 Eli Cox with an Insane Lay-Up
#23 Kai Bruce Swishing the Three pointer
#22 Khorbin Gregory sinking the Mid-Range Shot