Colton’s Rasmussen’s focused free throws in the final 23 seconds sent Atlantic to a nail-biting win over Creston 75-73 on Monday night in Creston. The Panthers led by as many as 10 points in the fourth quarter, but the Trojans fought their way back in the second half thanks to a 50-point performance from senior Colton Rasmussen.

The Panthers led 38-34 at halftime and the Panthers grew their lead to 10 at 55-45 at the start of the fourth.  The fourth quarter was back and forth until Rasmussen had the ball in the final 70 seconds and pulled up to the elbow for a smooth jump shoot. The Trojans had the lead at 71-70 and didn’t let go throughout the remainder of the fourth. The final two throws in the fourth quarter had one make and one miss by Brock Henderson to make it 75-73. Cael Turner received the pass off the second missed free throw and heaved it up at half court with seconds left. The shot missed and the Trojan’s bench celebrated. After the game Head Coach Dalton Franken talked about that feeling of pride, he had with the way the Trojans battled all night.

Coach Franken complimented the effort from not only Rasmussen, but the Atlantic squad as well.

Colton Rasmussen led the Trojans with 50 points. Nolan Waters added 14 points and Brock Henderson had 6 to help Atlantic move to 4-10 on the season. They travel back home Thursday to play Harlan.

Creston was led by 23 points from Jake Hoyt and 17 from Tony Davidson. The Panthers fall to 3-8 and will stay at home to face a competitive Glenwood team on Tuesday.