OLEAN - It looked like Maple Grove had everything going for it in the opening round of the Olean Tipoff Tournament on Friday night.
The Red Dragons built a comfortable 17-point advantage early in the second half, but had to hang on for a 71-61 victory over Buffalo East.
Buffalo East came roaring back, trimming the lead to just two points with under two minutes left in the game, but Maple Grove came through with some clutch free throws when it counted.
Aaron Germain and Will Soffel scored 24 points apiece to key the Red Dragons (1-0).
Johnathon Lewis had 20 points for East (0-2), which was playing its second game in as many days.
With the victory, the Red Dragons move into the championship game at 3 p.m. today when they take on host Olean. The consolation game will take place at 1 p.m.