Injuries have forced Sean Smith to condense his high school basketball experience into just one season. The senior sure made the most of his lone shot at his rival. Smith scored a game-high 15 points as Doherty handled Palmer 56-30 on Saturday night, avenging a rare loss in one of the city’s oldest rivalries from a year ago. “It just makes the ones that I get even greater,” Smith said of the impact of his injuries – hip issues that took away his freshman and sophomore campaigns and knee surgery as a junior. “I’m just blessed to be out here. I just pray for times like this.” Smith’s balanced scoring contribution included seven points in the first half and eight in the second as the Spartans (3-6) jumped to a seven-point lead at halftime before gaining separation with a 20-10 third quarter. Smith, a 6-foot-3 forward, was there last year when Palmer broke a losing streak in the rivalry. “It was a crazy experience,” he said of the games that drew packed gyms both seasons. “Just the atmosphere between these teams, these schools, it’s fun to be a part of.” Doherty’s Javar Harrison puts up a shot against Palmer at Doherty High School on Saturday night. (BRENT BRIGGEMAN, THE GAZETTE) Senior Javar Harrison added 14 points for Doherty, while senior Gavin Gilbert and junior Syron Odie each scored nine. Palmer (4-7) was paced by eight points from Deon Syles, a talented 6-foot-4 freshman. The Terrors never cut the deficit to closer than five following the first quarter against the stingy Spartans’ defense. Mark Jones, a Doherty alum who is now coaching the boys’ team after three seasons at the helm of the girls’ program, was happy to see the result swing back to his team’s side. This was the Spartans’ first win this season in Colorado, as it won a pair of out-of-state contests but has otherwise faced a tough nonconference slate that has included teams like Cherry Creek, Mountain Vista and Ralston Valley. “It’s always fun,” Jones said. “Beating Palmer means a lot. These seniors, they deserve it. It’s a good win for these seniors.” And one senior, in particular, was singled out after this one. “We need him, he’s special,” Jones said of Smith, whom he has reminded throughout the young season to embrace his opportunities. “He’s our real X-factor. He’s the one that can really make us get to that next level. He’s a special kid.” ...read more read less