The Laurel Spartans played tough but fell to New Brighton in a Section 2-AA contest, 52-49

Laurel (5-4, 10-6) had a chance to tie the game with five seconds left, but Eric Wallas’ 3-pointer at the buzzer was blocked.

“It was hard-fought game,” Spartans coach Mike Tinstman said. “It was close the whole way. Really, the difference came down to they had five threes and we only had two.”

Jake Dando paced Laurel with a game- and season-high 26 points to go along with seven rebounds. Shane Caldararo added 12 markers and 10 boards.

The Spartans entered the week in second place in the section, but now find themselves in a tie for third with Summit Academy. A win over Mohawk on Tuesday would do wonders for their playoff hopes.

“I’m sure they look forward to playing us,” Tinstman said.

Chris Weathers tallied 16 points for New Brighton (6-2, 9-7).