Ballard, ranked No. 2 ranked in The Courier-Journal’s Litkenhous ratings, trailed by as many as 15 points in the first half Thursday night before rallying past visiting Lexington Henry Clay 79-75 in overtime.
The Louisville Invitational Tournament champion Bruins (18-2), winners of 13 straight and now with a 14-0 record against Kentucky schools, started their comeback by outscoring the Blue Devils 19-10 in the third quarter.
In overtime, Ballard trailed 71-69 and then scored six straight, the last three on a 3-pointer by Paul Schiavone. The Bruins then made four straight free throws — two each by Jamil Wilson and Jake Ramsey — to seal the win.
Anthony Eaves paced the Bruins with 18 points. Jalen Perry added 17 and 10 rebounds; and Wilson had 15 points.
The Blue Devils (12-7), who hit a sizzling 63 percent of their shots in the first half, were led by Isaiah Tisdale’s 30 points. Felix Wilson added 15 points. Jordan Houston chipped in with 13 points and 12 rebounds.