The Utica boys basketball team dropped a narrow 45-42 decision to Johnstown.
The game took place on Dec. 20 at Utica High School.
The loss moved the Redskins to 2-4 overall and 1-3 in conference play.
Both teams opened the game slowly, with Utica scoring seven points and Johnstown 10 in the first quarter. Johnstown carried a 22-17 advantage into halftime before Utica responded with a strong third quarter to tie the game at 31 entering the final period.
The fourth quarter featured frequent trips to the free-throw line for both teams, but Johnstown converted key field goals down the stretch to secure the win.
Utica’s scoring was balanced, led by senior Nate Hite with 11 points. Gavin Dugan added 10 points, while Kamden Hall scored nine and Sam Krueger finished with eight.
Johnstown was paced by Ace Lowery, who scored a game-high 17 points, including four 3-pointers. John Eckenrode also contributed 10 points for the Trojans.
Utica will break for the holidays before returning to action Dec. 30 with a home game against East Knox.
