Stanton Girls punch ticket to Lincoln with District Final win over BRLD

The Stanton Girls Basketball Team won 56-43 over BRLD in the C2-2 District Final at Wisner-Pilger Friday night to qualify for state.

The Mustangs got out to a 17-12 lead after one, and outscored BRLD 15-9 in the 2nd quarter to take a 32-21 lead into the locker room.

Stanton won the 3rd quarter 11-6 to extend their lead to 43-27 at the end of three.

The Wolverines won the 4th quarter 16-13.

Jessie Brandl had 20 points and 10 rebounds, good enough for a double-double. Jaiden Hartl notched 12 points while Hannah Heppner totaled 10 points and 10 rebounds, also good enough for a double-double. Liz Christensen added 8 points while Bree Burtwhistle posted 7 rebounds.

Great performance by the Mustangs. I think a lot of people, including myself, thought this game would be closer and BRLD could win, but Stanton put those thoughts to rest.

The Mustangs (23-2) take on the Burwell Longhorns (20-5) in the first round of State at Lincoln North Star Thursday night at 8:45 in action that will be aired on 107.9 the Bull.

Burwell defeated Cambridge 38-31 in the C2-5 District Final at Kearney High Friday night.

The Longhorns are making their first state appearance since 1985 while Stanton is at State for the 2nd time in the last three years.

The Mustangs were led in scoring by Brandl and Heppner, who average 10 points per game. Burtwhistle averages 9 while Hartl and Christensen average 8 and 7, respectively.

Burwell is led in scoring by Blake Mann, who averages 16 a game. Emma Hoffschneider averages 12 while Lily Gideon averages 11 per game.

I feel the Mustangs have a great chance and opportunity to get to the State Championship on Saturday and win it.

Stanton is a very strong defensive team, and if their offense can come through, they're going to be awfully difficult for anyone to beat.

The Mustangs have had a great season, and I think playing at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Saturday is a very possible thing.

Stanton has to take care of business against Burwell first though.

The winner gets either Superior or Fremont Bergan in the semifinals at 3:45 p.m. on Friday at the Devaney Center.

I could see the Knights upsetting the Wildcats since Superior just beat Bergan by 8 in a District Final, and it's tough to beat a team twice in a row.

I think it could very well be a Hastings St. Cecilia/Stanton final, but there's a lot of work for both teams to do to make that happen.

Having already won a State Championship in Volleyball, getting one in basketball would be big for the Mustangs, in my opinion.

I think Stanton is capable of making it happen, but it won't be easy.

Everyone has the same dream and goal in mind, and that's playing for and winning a state championship.

Anyone can be beat in any round of the state tournament, and so the Mustangs can't let their guard down and must take it to every opponent in an aggressive and ferocious manner.

I'm sure Stanton has plenty of motivation on their side after just missing out on the state tournament last year.

Most of these girls played in the State Tournament two years ago so they know what it's like.

I think that experience combined with the disappointment of last year will propel Stanton to Championship Saturday.

With the exception of a potential 3rd place game on Saturday, Stanton Girls State Basketball Coverage can be heard on the Bull.

GACC Girls win District Final over Weeping Water to advance to state for 21st straight year

The Guardian Angels Central Catholic Girls Basketball Team punched their ticket to the State Tournament by defeating Weeping Water 34-27 in the D1-2 District Final at Wahoo Friday night.

The Indians got out to a 10-8 lead after one before the Bluejays tripled up Weeping Water 9-3 in the 2nd quarter to take a 17-13 lead into the locker room.

The Indians won the 3rd quarter 9-6 to close within a single point at 23-22 at the end of three.

GACC outscored Weeping Water 11-5 in the 4th quarter.

Angela Jansen registered 12 points and 14 rebounds, good enough for a double-double. Lexis Haase added 7 points and 7 rebounds.

Head Coach Jerry Stracke says his team's defense really played well in the win. "Well our defense. Defense has been our key the whole season. And hopefully we'll play good defense down at state and do well."

GACC (20-6) takes on Ansley-Litchfield (20-3) in the first round of State on Thursday at 3:45 p.m. at Lincoln Southwest in action that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Spartans qualified for state via wildcard after losing 37-32 to Overton in the D1-10 Sub-District Semifinals at Kearney Catholic on Tuesday, February 13th.

Ansley-Litchfield Head Coach Joel Bailey says the Eagles really took it to his squad. "That was kind of a just not a real good game for us. That score was not really even indicative of the game. We were blown out of that pretty early, and then battled back late to make it closer than maybe even what the game actually was. We just didn't show up to play very well that night."

Stracke says the Spartans figure to be a difficult matchup. "Well they're very athletic. And their height will give us some problems. They play a 3-2 zone, which we haven't really faced this year. And they diamond press so they play a full court game. So that's going to be a challenge for us, especially since we don't have veteran players out there. But hopefully we'll handle the situation and play well."

GACC is making their 21st consecutive appearance at the state tournament. "It's been special here. We've had some very good athletes. Good parent support, administration, great community. It's a combination of all those things, but like I said very fortunate and very lucky to be here," Stracke said.

The Spartans are making their first ever state tournament appearance in co-op history. Bailey says it's a big deal to be down in Lincoln. "It's pretty big for the basketball program. It's kind of been a volleyball co-op, volleyball schools in the past. They've qualified 2 or 3 different times probably. But we've never done it in basketball and so we're pretty excited to get this done and get down there and see what can happen."

Ansley-Litchfield is led by Sarah Lewis and Falan Ryan, who both average 10 points a game. Mariah Lane averages 9.

Haase is the Bluejays' leading scorer at 17 points a game. Marissa Hunke averages 9 a game while Jansen and Brenna Rief average 7 per contest.

I think GACC will win. I feel the Bluejays' state experience and strength of schedule will be too much for the Spartans to overcome.

I feel GACC's defense will be also too much for Ansley-Litchfield.

The winner gets either Friend or BDS in the Semifinals at 10:45 a.m. on Friday at the Devaney Center.

I feel the Bluejays have a chance to win state again, but it will be tough.

The D-1 field is pretty solid this year with a lot of good teams.

With that said, GACC has played a lot of great teams, and I would put their defense up against anyone in D-1.

I think it's just a matter of if the Bluejays can score.

A team with a high powered offense and good defense could give GACC some issues I would say.

Once again, coverage of Bluejay state basketball with the exception of a potential 3rd place game on Saturday can be heard on the Bull.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder Boys end season with District Final loss to Wahoo

We had boys high school basketball on 107.9 The Bull Monday night as Logan View/Scribner-Snyder faced off against Wahoo in the C1-2 District Championship at Fremont High.

The Raiders got out to an early 7-2 lead in the first quarter, before Wahoo took over 12-9 in the frame, and 21-15 at halftime.

LVSS would get as close as four points with less than two minutes left in the game, before Wahoo pulled away for the 49-36 win.

Ben Moxness had 13 points for the Raiders, with Alex Hagerbaumer adding 10.

Difficult way for LVSS to go out. I'm sure the Raiders would have much rather ended their season at the State Tournament.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder ends their season at 21-5.

The Raiders had a magnificent year, picking up big wins over Oakland-Craig (twice), Wayne, North Bend Central, Wisner-Pilger, West Point-Beemer, Howells-Dodge, Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family, and BRLD.

It had to be tough for LVSS to get left out of the state tournament, especially given the type of season the Raiders had.

LVSS lost to some great teams and powerhouses at the end.

It honestly wouldn't surprise me to see Wahoo go on and win C-1.

The Raiders are definitely good enough to be at state, they just had a very tough draw.

I'm sure the seniors and others are hurting right now, but I'm sure things will be fine in time.

LVSS says goodbye to Brandon Hagerbaumer, Moxness, Polk, Alex Hagerbaumer, Alex VonSeggern, Logan Rebbe, Nathan Taylor, and Joel Moeller.

The Raiders lose some great players. This was a very, very, very talented senior class.

Key returners for LVSS next year include Riley Hoetfelker, Clay Kruger, Austin Peters, Conner Larson, Brett Uhing, and Michael Luther.

There definitely needs to be a lot of work put in in the offseason for the Raiders, and all these players need to step up and contribute and play big roles for LVSS next season.

I think the Raiders have a chance to be good again next year, but LVSS loses some absolute studs to graduation this year.

This is a senior class that won't soon be forgotten given all they did for LVSS Boys Basketball.

They weren't the first class at Logan View to ever make state, but they came pretty darn close.

The bar has now been set for future Raider teams, and now LVSS can aim for what this year's team did and make it even better in the future.

A foundation for success was laid down by this year's senior class.

I want to wish each and every one of those kids success in their lives after high school.

I'm sure all will go on to do great things in life.

For the returning players and newcomers, it's back to work as soon as possible.

North Bend Central ends year with District Final loss to Lincoln Christian; Girls end year with Sub-District Final loss to Columbus Scotus

The North Bend Central Boys Basketball Team lost 69-54 to Lincoln Christian in the C1-4 District Final at Wahoo Monday night.

The Crusaders led the Tigers 17-14 after one before North Bend Central won the 2nd quarter 19-14 to go up 33-31 at halftime.

Lincoln Christian won the 3rd quarter 19-15 to go up 50-48 at the end of three.

The Crusaders outscored the Tigers 19-6 in the 4th quarter.

John Emanuel finished with 18 points while Tanner and Jaxon Wietfeld totaled 14 apiece.

It's always tough to end a season short of the state tournament, but especially when you get so close and are one game away from making it.

North Bend Central's season ends at 22-4.

The season was full of big wins for the Tigers, who defeated West Point-Beemer (twice), Milford, Parkview Christian, Wayne, Wisner-Pilger, Oakland-Craig (twice), Howells-Dodge, and David City Aquinas....all teams that finished above .500 this season.

North Bend Central was so close to making state, the 4th quarter was just unkind to the Tigers against the Crusaders.

North Bend Central figures to be back next year though as they only lose Peter Emanuel and James Seymour to graduation.

Both these players were key and solid contributors for the Tigers, but North Bend Central has to be excited about who they bring back.

The Tigers welcome back John Emanuel, Chase Ruzicka, Austin Endorf, Tanner Wietfeld, Jaxon Wietfeld, Cole Kluthe, and Ben Rolenc, among others.

Next year figures to be North Bend Central's year with quite a few juniors back for their senior campaign.

I think next season is an opportunity for the Tigers to get back to state, and make up for missing out on the tournament this year.

North Bend Central's 2019 senior class has to wake up early as much as possible this offseason, and get after things on the court and in the weightroom.

The Tigers have to dedicate themselves to improving their game on both ends of the floor.

North Bend Central has to work as hard as possible and make sure they're doing everything in their power to maximize their potential and abilities.

State would be a great thing and a great reward for the Tigers next season, and I think North Bend Central is very capable of making it happen.

I'm sure the Tigers are very pained and saddened right now, but give it a couple weeks and I'm sure North Bend Central will be ready to get back to work.

Next year has a chance to be a special year for the Tigers, in my opinion, but North Bend Central has to put in a lot of hard work in the offseason to make all their dreams and hopes of making state a reality.

The Tigers have to play the game as much as possible from now until November, and really enjoy it each and every time they take to the floor.

The North Bend Central Girls Basketball Team also came up short of making the state tournament, losing 33-29 to Columbus Scotus in the C1-7 Sub-District Final at Columbus High last Thursday night.

I thought the Tigers had a shot to knock off the Shamrocks like they did in Volleyball, but it didn't happen in Basketball.

North Bend Central ends the season at 18-5.

I thought it was a good season for the Tigers despite not making state, and I felt North Bend Central put together some really good performances this season.

Big wins came over Twin River, West Point-Beemer (twice), Milford, Arlington, Wayne, Fremont Bergan, Oakland-Craig, and Howells-Dodge (twice).

The Tigers lose a big and talented senior class, including Brooke Fredrickson, Kristin Lux, Kaitlynn Bjorklund, Caitlyn Wiebold, Hailey Bang, and Kristin Lux.

These girls had outstanding careers, and should be very proud of what they accomplished.

They will certainly not be easy to replace.

Key returners for North Bend Central next year though include Megan Ortmeier, Faith Taylor, and Lauren Emanuel.

These 3 are going to need to shoulder more of the load and pickup their games for the Tigers next season.

It will be interesting to see who all comes in as incoming freshmen for North Bend Central next season, but one thing is for sure....the Tigers will be young.

North Bend Central needs to do a lot of shooting and weightlifting this summer to remain at an elite and high level.

Depending who all comes in next season, I think the Tigers can continue to be good and win a lot of games.

Taylor, Ortmeier, and Emanuel really have to step up for North Bend Central next season, and lead and put this team on their shoulders.

There's no doubt the Tigers can be successful again next year, but players are going to have to develop and grow between now and November.

North Bend Central hopes next year isn't a rebuilding year.

It could be, but it's hard saying how the Tigers will be next year without knowing how their JV did and who all comes in next season.

One thing is for sure though...it's going to take a lot of hard work, determination, dedication, and sacrifice for North Bend Central to be good again next year.

West Point-Beemer Girls lose to Wahoo in District Final to end season

The West Point-Beemer Girls Basketball Team came up short in the C1-2 District Final at Fremont High against Wahoo Friday night as the Cadets lost 60-48 in a game aired on 107.9 the Bull.

The Cadets jumped in front early, but the Warriors battled back to tie the game at 15 at the end of one.

Wahoo won the 2nd quarter 13-9 to go up 28-24 at halftime.

The Warriors started the 3rd quarter on a 9-0 run, and outscored West Point-Beemer 13-6 in the 3rd quarter to lead 41-30 at the end of three.

Wahoo won the 4th quarter 19-18.

Makenna Weddle led the Cadets with a team-high 11 points in her final game in a West Point-Beemer uniform. Fellow senior Katie Pilakowski added 10 while freshman Sidney Swanson notched 9. Senior Brittney Hinkel totaled 8.

Difficult way for the Cadets to go out. West Point-Beemer had their chance, but lost their 3rd District Final in the last four years.

West Point-Beemer ends the season with a 20-7 record.

It was a very memorable season for the Cadets, who really picked up their play after Christmas.

West Point-Beemer beat Arlington twice, knocked off Howells-Dodge, and beat BRLD, Twin River (twice), Stanton, and Oakland-Craig, all teams who finished the season .500 or better.

Hinkel was the team's leading scorer and rebounder, finishing with averages of 11 points and 6 rebounds a game.

The Cadets lose Hinkel, Weddle, Pilakowski, Megan Groth, and Nicole Mitzel to graduation.

These girls are all big losses, and played a key and vital role in West Point-Beemer's success the last four years.

Plenty of talent returns for the Cadets though.

West Point-Beemer brings back Swanson, Brooklyn Weddle, Abbey Dale, Abby Kaup, Andrea Hoffman, Darian Repschlaeger, Brooke Haase, Katie Combs, Kendra Paasch, and Rachel Groth.

I expect each and every one of these girls to step up and contribute for the Cadets next season.

West Point-Beemer will need some new scorers and leaders to emerge, but I fully expect the returning players and newcomers to find girls to do that.

I think the Cadets will have another fantastic season next year, and put themselves in a position to make state.

West Point-Beemer has to continue all the shooting and intense workouts in the offseason they put in this year.

The Cadets have to keep growing and improving as players and teammates to continue to make this program what it has become.

Perhaps next year will be the year West Point-Beemer breaks through and makes state.

It's tough to make state when you get paired against Wahoo, Neumann, or even Pierce, but in order to be the best you have to beat the best.

One of these years the Cadets will breakthrough and make state.

This year just wasn't West Point-Beemer's year to breakthrough and reach the state tournament.

Perhaps next year will be.

BRLD Girls end season in District Final loss to Stanton

The BRLD Girls Basketball Team saw their season come to an end Friday night as the Wolverines lost 56-43 to Stanton in the C2-2 District Final at Wisner-Pilger.

The Mustangs got out to a 17-12 lead after one, and outscored BRLD 15-9 in the 2nd quarter to take a 32-21 lead into the locker room.

Stanton won the 3rd quarter 11-6 to extend their lead to 43-27 at the end of three.

The Wolverines won the 4th quarter 16-13.

Vicki Gatzemeyer had 17 points to pace BRLD in her final game in a Wolverine uniform. Sophia Henneman chipped in 9 in her final game as well.

I thought BRLD had a really good chance to win this game and make state. The Wolverines just came up a little bit short though.

BRLD concludes the year with a 21-5 record.

It was a great and memorable season for the Wolverines, who picked up big wins over Howells-Dodge, Clarkson/Leigh, Ponca, Oakland-Craig (twice), Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family, Stanton, and North Bend Central.

BRLD won the East Husker Conference Tournament, and that had to be a big deal for the Wolverines.

BRLD graduates a talented senior class that includes Gatzemeyer, Henneman, Tiahna Bonneau, Kelcee Bacon, and Mariah Petersen.

The Wolverines bring back some nice talent though in Paige Peters, Brandi Simonsen, Caragan Tietz, and Kelsey Larsen.

I look for BRLD to have another nice season next year, and be a factor in the EHC Conference and postseason once again.

The Wolverines did a lot of great things and made a lot of nice memories this season, they simply came up short of reaching their goal and final desired destination.

I think not making state gives BRLD something to work towards and build for in the future though.

The Wolverines came so close this year, and it's going to hurt for a while, but BRLD has to put it behind them and move on and get ready for next season when they're ready.

A lot of hard work, determination, time, and effort went into this season for the Wolverines.

BRLD really did some special things, and I'm sure this season is something the players, coaches, parents, and fans will never forget.

The Wolverines almost made state in Boys and Girls, but there's the potential for that happening in the future yet.

BRLD has to take more steps in the right direction this offseason, and make the program even better than it already is.

I thought the Wolverines made a lot of strides from their first year to their second year so there's no reason to think BRLD can't take even more steps forward next season.

The Wolverines did a lot of nice and special things this year, and should be very proud of what they accomplished.

I'm sure everyone is bummed out and disappointed about not being at state, but there is always next year.

Oakland-Craig Boys lose Sub-District Final to BRLD

It came down to a deciding possession late in the 4th quarter in the Boys C2-3 Sub-District Final from West Point-Beemer Thursday night as BRLD edged Oakland-Craig 48-43.

Down 46-43 with 7.8 seconds left, the Knights' Robby Mayberry was dribbling down court, and tried to get the ball to All-State Player Garrett Seagren for a game-tying three pointer, but Mayberry crossed half court and threw it behind to Seagren, who was trailing the play, but couldn't quite make it across halfcourt with the ball after catching it, thus the game deciding turnover.

Head Coach Aaron Meyer on the play. "Yeah that's a hard one. It's basketball. And you make plays sometimes, and sometimes you don't. And it's one of those life lessons where we're going to learn that the game's not won and lost in one or two possessions at the end of the game. There's 32 minutes of that ball game, and we had chances throughout. So sometimes it does come down to the very end, but we're not going to be pointing any fingers."

Oakland-Craig made a furious rally late as Seagren canned three 3's after BRLD went up 45-34 with less than a minute to go.

The Knights led early, 6-5 after one, and 17-15 at halftime after winning the 2nd quarter 11-10.

The Wolverines put together a big 3rd quarter though, doubling up Oakland-Craig 18-9 to go up 33-26 at the end of three.

The Knights won the 4th quarter 17-15.

Seagren paced Oakland-Craig with 16 points, including 12 in the 4th quarter, while Kobe Benne totaled 13, 11 coming in the 2nd quarter. Wyatt Seagren added 7 points and 12 rebounds.

Aaron Meyer says his team never gave up after falling behind in the 2nd half. "Yeah we had that little lull where we lost a couple guys defensively. I don't think we communicated on the substitution. And we weren't sure who we were guarding. That stuff can't happen this time of year, let alone a high school game. And they took advantage. They made a couple 3's. We had some great looks there near the end that didn't go in the last oh I'd say 3 or 4 minutes of the game. And then I told the guys a little over a minute left, we're down 10, I'm looking at the bench wondering why I should sub some guys in. And Garrett said no coach we're not done yet. And I got full confidence if we get him the ball there at the end he's got a shot to tie. I'm putting some money on that. He wanted it. We just didn't get it to him."

The Knights end the season at 16-10.

BRLD Head Coach Cory Meyer says Oakland-Craig was underrated. Aaron always has his team ready. They're a great team. They're a lot better than what that record shows because to start the season off they didn't have Garrett to start off with, and they should be a Division I if not ranked in C-2. And there's no doubt in my mind. And trying to beat them twice is tough to do, and we did that tonight."

Aaron Meyer says Garrett Seagren and Benne really came to play. "Yeah they did. When you're a senior like that, you're going to win some, you're going to lose some. And if you're going to lose you want to go down with a fight. And they went down with a fight no doubt so really proud of their efforts."

Garrett Seagren led the team in scoring and rebounding at 15 points and 7 rebounds a game this season.

Benne was second in scoring at 12 points a game.

Wyatt Seagren was 2nd in rebounding at 6 boards a game.

Garrett Seagren and Benne are lost to graduation.

Those are two very good players leaving the Oakland-Craig program.

Key returners include Wyatt Seagren, Robby Mayberry, Jared Mulder, Garrison Dodge, Cole Bures, and Tyson Harney.

I think the Knights have a chance to be good again next year, but new players have to emerge and become scorers for Oakland-Craig next season.

Other players have to step up and pick up the slack left by the departed Garrett Seagren and Benne.

They are two great players left to graduation, but I fully expect a number of the returners develop into scorers in the offseason and carry more of the load next season.

I think Dodge, Bures, and Wyatt Seagren in particular have to become go to scorers for the Knights next year.

Those are the 3 I look to shoulder more of the scoring load next season.

Pender Boys drop Sub-District Final game to Walthill

The Pender Boys Basketball Team saw their season come to an end Thursday night as the Pendragons lost 53-36 to Walthill in the D1-4 Sub-District Final from Wisner-Pilger.

I thought this game would be closer than it was, but it just wasn't meant to be.

Pender ends the season with a 10-15 record.

I thought it was a nice season for the Pendragons.

Pender doubled up their win total from last year.

I think picking up a sub-district win over GACC was huge.

The Pendragons say goodbye to Jared Tyrrell, Gerrit Foellmer, Jordan Springer, Riley Prokop, Tyler Nelson, and Dean Gibbs.

These players will be sorely missed without a doubt as they were a big part of this ongoing turnaround for the Pender Boys Basketball Program.

Key returners include Austin Roth, Eric Schopke, Chris Rutar, Jaydon Jump, Jaxon Maise, Sam Mailoux, and Dylan Brader.

I like the makeup of this Pendragon team heading into next season.

I feel Pender will be even better next year than they were this year.

I think the Pendragons will have a chance to win even more games next year than they did last year.

I don't think there's any reason to think Pender can't win anywhere from 15-20 games next season.

As long as the Pendragons have Mailoux they should be able to compete at a high level and win a lot of games.

I feel Pender has a shot to be successful again next season, and perhaps get to a district final or even make state.

The Pendragons took some big steps in the right direction this year so things can only go up from here I would say.

Pender has to continue to make strides and get better in the offseason.

The Pendragon Boys Basketball Program is a work in progress, and perhaps can become a finished product after next year.

Emerson-Hubbard Boys lose regular season finale at Stanton, fall to Winside in Sub-Districts; Girls end year with loss to Humphrey St. Francis in Sub-District Final

The Emerson-Hubbard Boys Basketball Team lost 61-29 at Stanton last Friday night to end the regular season before losing 58-41 to Winside in the D2-3 Sub-District Semifinals at Stanton Tuesday night to wrap up the season.

The Mustangs went up 17-7 at the end of one on the Pirates before outscoring Emerson-Hubbard 23-8 in the 2nd quarter to take a 40-15 lead into the locker room.

Stanton won the 3rd quarter 8-5 to go up 48-20 at the end of three.

The Mustangs won the 4th quarter 13-9.

Jacob Kneifl had 12 points while Nolan Belt totaled 7 points and 8 rebounds.

The Wildcats went up 19-14 after one, and outscored the Pirates 16-9 in the 2nd quarter to take a 35-23 lead into the locker room.

Winside outscored Emerson-Hubbard 15-4 in the 3rd quarter to go up 50-27 at the end of three.

The Pirates won the 4th quarter 14-8.

I thought Emerson-Hubbard played decent in their sub-district game.

The Pirates end the year at 1-22.

Emerson-Hubbard says goodbye to Chandler Emmons, Joshua Sebade, Blake Eriksen, Keaton Wriedt, and Luke Stolze.

These seniors meant a lot to the Pirates for sure, and will be missed, there's no doubt about it.

Key returners include Belt, Spencer Burcham, Kneifl, and Kaden Swanson.

It will be interesting to see what happens with Emerson-Hubbard next year.

They have approached Allen about co-oping so it will be interesting to see if that happens next season.

The Pirates appear to be good in numbers for boys basketball, but Girls is a different story.

Whatever happens I hope it's for the best interest of the kids and the school.

Emerson-Hubbard had a tough year, and anything to make them more successful is a good thing, in my opinion.

The returning players and newcomers have to get after things in the offseason and work their tails off.

Next year has already started, and everyone needs to get started on offseason shooting and stuff of that nature if they haven't already.

I feel Emerson-Hubbard or whatever team these kids play for next year has a chance to be better next year than they were this year.

The Pirates had a difficult season, but perhaps changes are coming in the near future.

Both Allen and Emerson-Hubbard really struggled this year so I think co-oping is something Allen should consider.

I'm sort of surprised Emerson-Hubbard hasn't combined with Pender as that seemed like a natural fit.

At any rate I'm sure Emerson-Hubbard will get something figured out for their boys and girls basketball teams in terms of a co-op.

The Emerson-Hubbard Girls Basketball Team lost 63-44 to Humphrey St. Francis in the D2-3 Sub-District Final at Stanton last Thursday night to end the season.

The Flyers led 21-14 after one, and won the 2nd quarter 11-10 to take a 32-24 lead into the locker room.

Humphrey St. Francis outscored the Pirates 17-10 in the 3rd quarter to go up 49-34 at the end of three.

The Flyers won the 4th quarter 14-10.

Melanie Gentrup poured in 33 points while Courtney Bokemper and Cailin Gentrup had 10 and 7 rebounds, respectively.

What a fantastic effort by Melanie Gentrup. She single handily carried the Pirates in this one.

Emerson-Hubbard ends the season with a 5-19 record.

I thought the Pirates had a nice season for ending the season with only 7 players.

Melanie Gentrup averaged 14 points and 5 rebounds this season while Bokemper put up 10 points and 9 rebounds per game on the season.

The good news for Emerson-Hubbard fans is they're both back next year.

The tough news is the Pirates lose Cailin Gentrup and Taylor Lamp.

Key returners are Addison Mackling, Taylor Daum, and Stephanie Ferrusca as well.

The bad news is those three and Melanie Gentrup and Bokemper are all that returns next year.

I don't know if Emerson-Hubbard can play a season with just 5 girls on the roster.

Perhaps there are some freshmen coming in next year, I don't know, but I do know that Emerson-Hubbard has approached Allen about co-oping.

It will be interesting to see what happens because Emerson-Hubbard definitely needs someone to co-op with.

I figured Emerson-Hubbard and Pender would of combined, but from what I heard Emerson-Hubbard didn't want to co-op with Pender as of last year.

Allen struggled this year too so I think Emerson-Hubbard and Allen could really benefit from a co-op.

It will be interesting to see what happens because these girls need a team to play for next season.

I'm sure things will all workout and Emerson-Hubbard will get a co-op landed.

The worst thing for Emerson-Hubbard next year would have to be not having a team and having to cancel the season.

That's not something I see happening though.

The one thing you hope doesn't happen though is players transfer.

Wisner-Pilger Boys beat Madison, lose to Lutheran High Northeast in Sub-Districts to end season

The Wisner-Pilger Boys Basketball Team routed Madison 71-35 on the road last Friday night to end the regular season before falling 57-35 to Lutheran High Northeast in the C2-4 Sub-District Semifinals at Norfolk Catholic Tuesday night.

The Gators got out to a 17-10 lead at the end of one on the Dragons, and outscored them 14-8 in the 2nd quarter to take a 31-18 lead into the locker room.

Wisner-Pilger outscored Madison 17-9 in the 3rd quarter to go up 48-27 at the end of three.

The Gators outscored the Dragons 23-8 in the 4th quarter.

The Eagles got out to an 11-7 lead after one before outscoring Madison 14-8 in the 2nd quarter to take a 25-15 lead into the locker room.

Wisner-Pilger won the 3rd quarter 13-10 to make it a 35-28 game at the end of three.

LHNE outscored the Gators 22-7 in the 4th quarter.

Tough way to go out for Wisner-Pilger there's no doubt about it.

The Gators end the season at 17-8.

It was a nice season for Wisner-Pilger overall I would say.

The Gators picked up big wins over West Point-Beemer, Oakland-Craig, Wayne, Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family, Howells-Dodge, and Laurel-Concord-Coleridge.

Wisner-Pilger didn't really have any bad losses this year as their losses came to good teams.

The Gators part ways with Hunter Waterman, Gunner Labenz, Chase Albers, Keegan Ruskamp, and Jack Canetta.

All of these players were very valuable members of the team and their contributions to Wisner-Pilger Boys Basketball will be missed without a doubt.

The Gators have to be excited about the future though as Wisner-Pilger brings back Jayden Raabe, Rockney Peck, Dylan Kneifl, Colby Heller, Mason Dimon, and Caden Schweers, among others.

Great players graduate, but great players return for the Gators as well.

Wisner-Pilger really has to get after things this offseason, and dedicate themselves to improving at the game of basketball, and getting bigger, faster, and stronger.

The Gators have to be committed to working out often and honing their skills.

It takes a lot of hard work, sacrifice, and determination to be great, and Wisner-Pilger has to get out there and go make it happen.

The Gators had a tough finish to the game against the Eagles so perhaps Wisner-Pilger needs to condition themselves more to become the last team standing.

Whatever the Gators do they need to figure out a formula to get over the hump and get out of sub-districts and into a district final and on to state.

I thought Wisner-Pilger had a nice season this year, but thought they could have done even better than they did.

The Gators were a good team this year, but with a lot of hard work put in over the summer can be great next year without a doubt.

Clarkson/Leigh Boys lose to David City and Walthill to end year; Girls fall to GACC in Sub-District Final

The Clarkson/Leigh Boys Basketball Team lost 52-48 in double overtime at David City last Friday night before ending the season Tuesday night with a 58-50 loss to Walthill in the D1-4 Sub-District Semifinals.

The Patriots led the Scouts 11-10 after one, and won the 2nd quarter 11-10 to take a 22-20 lead into the locker room.

Clarkson/Leigh won the 3rd quarter 11-9 to extend their lead to 33-29 at the end of three.

David City outscored the Patriots 13-9 in the 4th quarter to tie the game at 42 at the end of regulation.

Both teams scored 2 points in the first overtime, and the game was tied at 44 heading into the second OT.

The Scouts doubled up Clarkson/Leigh 8-4 in the 2nd overtime.

Daniel Beller had a double-double of 24 points and 12 rebounds while Tommy McEvoy had 7 points and 11 rebounds. Anthony Bruhn added 8 boards.

The Blujays and Patriots were tied at 8 after one before Walthill won the 2nd quarter 17-15 to take a 25-23 lead into the locker room.

The Blujays won the 3rd quarter 19-18 to extend the lead to 44-41 at the end of three.

Walthill outscored Clarkson/Leigh 14-9 in the 4th quarter.

Bruhn finished with 11 points while McEvoy and Haden Held totaled 10 and 9, respectively. Beller notched 15 rebounds while Jacob Gall had 8.

I thought the Patriots finished the season strong. I think Clarkson/Leigh played their best basketball in their last two contests, and got better as the season progressed.

The Patriots end the year at 4-18.

Clarkson/Leigh won all their games in the 2nd half of the season, and I thought the Patriots played much better once McEvoy came back from injury.

Beller led the team in scoring and rebounding with 11 points and 10 rebounds a game this season.

Clarkson/Leigh says goodbye to Held, Bruhn, Gall, and Garrett Schroeder.

These players are significant losses and will be sorely missed for sure.

Key returners include Beller, McEvoy, Lance Paprocki, and Isaak Wiese.

I think Beller and McEvoy are two great players to build your team around, and I look for the Patriots to do just that next year.

Clarkson/Leigh figures to be fairly young next year as they should have a pretty good mix of juniors and sophomores.

I think the Patriots have a chance to be better next year than they were this year.

Clarkson/Leigh graduates some key guys, but if some new players can develop and grow and step up next season then the Patriots should be in business.

Clarkson/Leigh has to work hard and put in a lot of time in the gym and weightroom this offseason.

These kids should have a basketball in their hands as much as possible.

Basketball has to be a priority for these players, and they have to take their workouts seriously.

The Patriots have to put in the time necessary to become a great team.

Greatness isn't achieved overnight, and champions aren't made just between December and March.

Champions are made in the offseason, and that certainly applies to Clarkson/Leigh and their returning players and newcomers.

Next season has already begun, and the sooner the Patriots get to work for next season the better off they will be.

The Clarkson/Leigh Girls Basketball Team saw their season come to an end last Thursday night as the Patriots lost 54-33 to GACC in the D1-4 Sub-District Final at Wisner-Pilger.

The Patriots led 9-8 at the end of the 1st quarter, but the Bluejays outscored Clarkson/Leigh 19-12 in the second frame to capture a 27-21 halftime lead.

GACC tripled up the Patriots 12-4 in the 3rd quarter to extend their lead to 39-25 at the end of three.

The Bluejays outscored Clarkson/Leigh 15-8 in the 4th quarter.

Lexis Haase led GACC with 25 points and 8 rebounds. Ally Plagge added 10 points and 8 rebounds while Marissa Hunke scored 7 points.

Ashlynn Novotny paced the Patriots with 11 points.

Tough way for Clarkson/Leigh to go out no doubt.

Clarkson/Leigh ends the season at 14-10.

It was a pretty memorable season for the Patriots, who knocked off the likes of Oakland-Craig (twice), Yutan, Friend, Elgin Public/Pope John,  Lutheran High Northeast, and Howells-Dodge.

Held led the team in scoring this season at 11 points per game while Novotny was the team's leading rebounder at 6 per contest.

Head Coach Matt Murren's squad brings back everybody next year. "We had two sophomores, two freshmen, and five juniors kind of in that 9 person rotation. And we got everybody back. We talked in the locker room. It stinks right now, and the kids are taking it hard, and they care. But everybody on this team's got to do a little bit for each other. And whatever that skill is that we've got to work on individually, we've got to do it. And we'll come back a better ball club next year."

I look for next year to be the Patriots' year.

I think Clarkson/Leigh has a great chance to make state given all who they bring back.

The Patriots have to work on their offensive game this offseason, and shoot, shoot, and shoot the rock as much as possible.

I think Clarkson/Leigh can become a great and elite team by improving their offensive game.

The Patriots are very skilled defensively now it's just a matter of getting scoring up.

I think these girls can definitely make the necessary improvements in the offseason to be a great team next year.

I feel Clarkson/Leigh will primed and ready to make a state run when the time comes.

The Patriots came close to doing something this year, they just had GACC in their way.

Had Clarkson/Leigh beat the Bluejays they could of very well made state.

As it is the Patriots have unfinished business left to attend to next season.

Clarkson/Leigh has to keep growing and improving as players and young ladies.

The more basketball these girls play in the offseason the better next year will go for them I would say.

Howells-Dodge Boys go 1-2 in final three games; Girls lose Sub-District Final to Stanton

The Howells-Dodge Boys Basketball Team lost 52-31 at Lutheran High Northeast Friday night to end the regular season before winning 54-44 over Stanton in the C2-4 Sub-District Play-In-Game at Norfolk Catholic Monday night, and falling 60-51 to Battle Creek in Tuesday night's Semifinals.

The Eagles got out to a 13-6 lead on the Jaguars after one before the Jaguars outscored LHNE 13-7 in the 2nd quarter to make it a 20-19 game at halftime in favor of the Eagles.

Lutheran High Northeast outscored Howells-Dodge 17-8 in the 3rd quarter to go up 37-27 at the end of the three.

The Eagles outscored the Jaguars 15-4 in the 4th quarter.

The Jaguars got out to a 12-5 lead on the Mustangs at the end of one before winning the 2nd quarter 14-13 to take a 26-18 lead into the locker room.

Howells-Dodge outscored Stanton 10-7 in the 3rd quarter to go up 36-25 at the end of three.

The Mustangs won the 4th quarter 19-18.

Connor Blum led the way with 13 points while Lane Hegemann totaled 9 points and 9 rebounds. Josh Brester notched 8 points while Dax VanLengen scored 7.

The Braves got out to a 15-8 lead after one. The Jaguars won the 2nd quarter 10-7 to make it a 22-18 game at halftime in favor of Battle Creek.

The Braves outscored Howells-Dodge 15-9 in the 3rd quarter.

The Jaguars won the 4th quarter 24-23.

VanLengen registered 11 points and 8 rebounds while Hegemann added 11 points. Blum recorded 10 points and 9 rebounds.

I thought Howells-Dodge competed very well in their last game of the season.

The Jaguars end the year at 13-12.

I'm sure Howells-Dodge would have liked to have done better this year, but it is what it is.

The Jaguars picked up big wins this year over Pierce, Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family (twice), West Point-Beemer, Hartington Cedar Catholic, and Wakefield.

Howells-Dodge beat and lost to some really good teams this year.

Blum, Hegemann, VanLengen and Kade Hegemann led the team in scoring with 10 points per game each. Lane Hegemann led the Jaguars in rebounding at 7 boards a game.

Head Coach Cole Fischer has stepped down as Head Coach as he has taken a Principal/AD Position at the school. "First off, I want to thank the seniors for giving everything to program the last 6 years and having a winning record for the first time in 4 years. Great job fellas. Throughout my last 6 years as HD Jags basketball coach, I have learned and loved, won and lost, and I have grown as man because of the athletes and students in this school. Sometimes I have to remind myself of how lucky I am to have the opportunity to teach and coach at Howells-Dodge. I want to thank all past, present, and future Jaguars for their hard work, dedication, and memories they have given me as a coach. I sincerely love every single player that has passed through this program and I look forward to guiding HD from behind the scenes. I want to thank my wife Justine, my girls Kashmir and Collins, for supporting me even when it means countless hours away from home. I want to also thank my assistant coaches Bryan Ruzek and Joe Wisnieski. These guys are the ones who are behind the scenes and need to take credit for the time and dedication they have brought to the program...without them we wouldn’t have accomplished the things we have. Lastly, I want to thank parents and communities of Howells and Dodge for trusting me to guide their boys in multiple sports. Your support is unmatched and you have all raised great young men. Words can’t describe how much I will miss being on the sideline, but I also know that all of our coaches at HD truly make HD a one of a kind place that can’t be matched. It has been a true honor and I will forever be grateful for my time as a Head Coach at Howells-Dodge."

The Jaguars lose Blum, Jordan Brichacek, VanLengen, and Ryan Macholan to graduation.

Key returners include Josh Brester, Luke Rocheford, Lane Hegemann, Caden Jackson, and Kade Hegemann.

There's some talent on this roster, and Howells-Dodge figures to be good once again next year regardless of who the new Head Coach is.

Howells-Dodge has a lot to look forward to in the future, and I look for the Jaguars to only be good in the future.

Howells-Dodge's returning players and newcomers have to continue to dedicate themselves to the weightroom and great play on the court throughout the offseason.

These young men have to continue to grow and develop as people, students, and athletes so they can continue to be successful in everything they do now and in the future.

The Howells-Dodge Girls Basketball Team gave Stanton a run for their money in the C2-4 Sub-District Final at Norfolk Catholic last Thursday night, but the Jaguars wound up losing 46-39.

The Mustangs held a 9-8 lead after one, and won the 2nd quarter 14-12 to take a 23-20 lead into the locker room.

The Jaguars doubled up Stanton 10-5 in the 3rd quarter to go up 30-28 at the end of three.

The Mustangs doubled up Howells-Dodge 18-9 in the 4th quarter.

Grace Dvorak had a game-high 15 points while Erin Prusa totaled 10.

Valiant effort from the Jaguars last Thursday night, but it wasn't enough to win.

Howells-Dodge concludes the campaign at 12-12.

The defending Class C-2 State Champions had some big wins this year against Pierce, Oakland-Craig, Clarkson/Leigh, BRLD, and Lutheran High Northeast.

The Jaguars lost to some great teams this year, and really had a nice and spectacular season.

Macey Kulhanek led the team in scoring this year at 16 points a game. Jessi Brester and Prusa were the leading rebounders with 5 per game.

Howells-Dodge loses 3 seniors to graduation in Kulhanek, Katelyn Steffensmeier, and Jordyn Brester.

I thought these 3, especially Kulhanek, were big contributors for this team and allowed the Jaguars to have the kind of success they had this year.

Key returners include Dvorak, Prusa, Cassie Pieper, Tonya Brester, Taya VanLengen, Jessi Brester, and Lexie Brester.

Howells-Dodge was very young this year, and I think the Jaguars will only be better next year with these players gaining a lot of experience.

Howells-Dodge should have a nice mixture of Seniors and Sophomores, who were Juniors and Freshmen this season.

The Jaguars need to have a big year of growth and development to be successful next season, in my opinion.

Every player has to get bigger, faster, stronger, and more athletic.

Howells-Dodge has to come ready to work every time they take the floor and hit the weightroom between now and November.

I'm sure most if not all of these girls take part in track, but after that's over it's time to get back to work on the hardwood.

Quite honestly though next season starts today so the sooner these girls get to work the better off they are going to be.

I look for the Jaguars to win at least 15-20 games next year, and put themselves in contention for a state berth at the very least.

Stanton figures to be great again next year, and could be a tough team for Howells-Dodge yet again if the two are put in the same sub-district again though.

Regardless of the competition though the Jaguars should be pretty solid again next year.

West Point-Beemer Boys beat Fremont Bergan in regular season finale, lose to Arlington in Sub-Districts; Girls top Arlington in Sub-District Final

The West Point-Beemer Boys Basketball Team defeated Fremont Bergan 46-36 at home Friday night to end the regular season before falling 49-42 to Arlington in the C1-4 Sub-District Semifinals at Oakland-Craig Tuesday night.

The Knights led the Cadets 15-11 after one before West Point-Beemer outscored Bergan 11-2 in the 3rd quarter to take a 22-17 lead into the locker room.

The Cadets won the 3rd quarter 13-11 to go up 35-28 at the end of three.

West Point-Beemer outscored the Knights 11-8 in the 4th quarter.

Tate Ernesti had a team-high 13 points while Blake Anderson notched 8. Austin and Chase Streeter each had 7 rebounds.

The Eagles built a 29-10 lead and held off a 4th quarter rally attempt by the Cadets.

Arlington jumped out to a 10-3 lead at the end of one and both teams scored 5 points in the 2nd quarter to make the score 15-8 at halftime in favor of the Eagles.

Arlington outscored West Point-Beemer 14-2 in the 3rd quarter to build their 29-10 lead.

The Cadets outscored the Eagles 32-20 in the 4th quarter.

Anderson led West Point-Beemer with 18 points while Hunter Pilakowski notched 8.

Tough way for the Cadets to go out.

West Point-Beemer ends the season at 15-10.

The Cadets had an up and down season with some good wins and not so good losses.

Big wins came over Wisner-Pilger, Oakland-Craig, and Bergan.

Difficult losses include the game against Howells-Dodge, Pierce, and the Sub-District game against Arlington.

Losing to the Eagles had to really hurt West Point-Beemer. I thought the Cadets would do better in the postseason than they did.

Chase Streeter led the team in scoring with 11 points and 5 rebounds a game this season.

West Point-Beemer says goodbye to Chase and Austin Streeter, Gavin Case, Pilakowski, Cole Hughes, Greg Johnson, Garret Meyer, Ernesti, James Meiergerd, and Alex Gianella.

This was a very talented senior class, and they were so special and instrumental in the Cadets having the success they did over the past 4 years.

The story with Meiergerd is incredible, and it was fun talking to and broadcasting a game with Gianella, the foreign exchange student.

West Point-Beemer returns just Anderson and Ben Vander Griend.

Two solid players back for the Cadets, but this was the Cadets' year to do something.

It will be interesting to see who all steps up and emerges for West Point-Beemer next season.

There are a lot of question marks heading into next season you could say so it will be interesting to see what happens.

One thing is for sure though...the returning players and newcomers have to work hard and get after things this offseason.

The Cadets have to play a lot of basketball from now until November, and get ready to take on new roles as leaders and such.

West Point-Beemer will be breaking in a lot of new players so varsity experience could be at a premium heading into next season.

That's why it's important for the returning players and newcomers to grow and develop as much as possible.

The West Point-Beemer Girls Basketball Team defeated Arlington 51-38 in the C1-4 Sub-District Final at Oakland-Craig last Thursday night.

The Cadets tripled up the Eagles 21-7 in the 1st quarter, and won the 2nd quarter 9-5 to take a 30-12 lead into the locker room.

West Point-Beemer won the 3rd quarter 13-11 to go up 43-23 at the end of three.

Arlington outscored the Cadets 15-8 in the 4th quarter.

Brittney Hinkel totaled 14 points and 7 rebounds while Sidney Swanson and Katie Pilakowski totaled 10 each. Makenna Weddle added 8.

Head Coach Craig Theis thought it would be Arlington who they'd need to beat to make a District Final, and he was right.

West Point-Beemer (20-6) takes on Wahoo (22-3) in the C1-2 District Final at Fremont High Friday night in action that will be aired on 107.9 the Bull.

The Warriors knocked off Bishop Neumann 53-43 in the C1-3 Sub-District Final at Millard West last Thursday night.

Theis says Wahoo shoots the 3 ball well. "I know they're a great team. They like to shoot the 3 pointer. They like to get up in and get tight on defense. They like to run I guess I should say a little bit. So pretty similar to us except they can shoot the 3 ball really well. And they have some athleticism."

The Cadets are 15-2 in their last 17 games. Theis says more practice time has led to that. "We decided to pick up our practice about Christmas time, and just go two hours and get after it, cause we got a lot of depth. And so we wanted to make practices very competitive. And we've really liked the results of our practice. And these girls are just so hungry whether it's staying after and shooting until 6:30 or waking up early morning and shooting at 7:15. We finally got the results we wanted from that extra work and extra practice."

I think West Point-Beemer is going to need to hit some outside shots and play a very strong defensive game to come away with the win Friday night.

A lot of these girls were freshmen and sophomores when the Cadets played Neumann two years ago, and I think that experience is only going to help West Point-Beemer Friday night.

I think this is the Cadets' best chance to win out of the 3 District Finals they've made in the past 4 years.

Will the 3rd time be the charm for West Point-Beemer Friday night? I sure hope so.

The game should be a lot of fun and there should be a lot of excitement around the contest.

I look for the Cadets to play well, and really push and compete with the Warriors.

West Point-Beemer can definitely win, but it won't be easy.

Wahoo is a great team. However, if the Warriors aren't hitting from the outside then that could really benefit the Cadets.

West Point-Beemer has to defend the perimeter tightly, and play the post tough down low as well.

Wahoo has the height advantage over the smaller Cadets, but if West Point-Beemer can play harder and smarter they could very well be cutting down the nets to go to Lincoln.

Tip-off is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on the Bull.

GACC Boys lose regular season finale to Winnebago, fall to Pender in Sub-Districts; Girls beat Clarkson/Leigh in Sub-District Final

The Guardian Angels Central Catholic Boys Basketball Team lost 80-64 at home to Winnebago to end the regular season Friday night before falling 60-50 in overtime to Pender in the D1-4 Sub-District Semifinals at Wisner-Pilger Tuesday night.

The Indians led the Bluejays 17-15 after one, and outscored GACC 23-9 in the 2nd quarter to take a 40-24 lead into the locker room.

Winnebago won the 3rd quarter 21-16 to extend the lead to 61-40 at the end of three.

The Bluejays won the 4th quarter 24-19.

Landon Stalp had a team-high 23 points and 9 rebounds while Casey Doernemann had 12 points and 10 rebounds, good enough for a double-double. Jared Minnick added 10 points and 8 rebounds.

The Bluejays raced out to a 13-7 lead at the end of one before the Pendragons outscored GACC 21-14 in the 2nd quarter to go up 28-27 at halftime.

Both teams scored 9 points in the 3rd quarter, and the score after 3 was 37-36 in favor of Pender.

The Bluejays won the 4th quarter 13-12 to tie the game at 49 and sent it into OT.

The Pendragons outlasted GACC 11-1 in the extra session.

Stalp had a double-double of 14 points and 10 rebounds while Bryant Rief registered 12 points. Doernemann notched 8 points and 7 rebounds while Minnick totaled 7 points and 8 rebounds.

I thought the Bluejays might keep their season going Tuesday night, but Pender had other ideas.

GACC ends the year at 3-18.

Not a typical Bluejay like year, but GACC had a first year head coach and lost a lot of players last year.

The Bluejays ended the year on a 12-game losing streak, not winning a game in the 2018 portion of their schedule.

I thought GACC played better basketball towards the end of the season though.

The Bluejays graduate just two players in Rief and Derek Petz.

Key returners include Minnick, Stalp, Doernemann, Hunter Uhing, Adam Reeson, and Josh Wordekemper.

I think GACC will be much improved next season.

With a full year of offseason growth and development the Bluejays should be primed to get back to their winning ways next season.

GACC has to play the sport as much as possible between now and November though.

Next season starts today, and the more basketball the Bluejays play the better they are going to be next year.

I'm sure a lot of these players are involved in spring sports like baseball and track, but devoting proper time to basketball once spring sports are over is going to be key, in my opinion.

GACC has to also lift as much as possible this offseason.

Participating in open gyms, team camps, summer leagues, and summer camps are all important for the returning players and newcomers I would say.

The returning players and newcomers have to be active and busy this summer, and must continue to develop as well rounded student athletes.

The Bluejays have to be gym rats, and have to urge Coach Stieren to open the gym for them a lot.

Getting good participation numbers in summer lifting and team activities is going to be very critical to the success of GACC next season and beyond, in my opinion.

The Bluejays have to work hard, and get more skilled, faster, bigger, and stronger.

GACC has to play with drive and determination this offseason.

The Guardian Angels Central Catholic Girls Basketball Team thwarted any hopes Clarkson/Leigh had of advancing to a District Final and making State as the Bluejays knocked off the Patriots 54-33 in the D1-4 Sub-District Final at Wisner-Pilger last Thursday night.

The Patriots led 9-8 at the end of the 1st quarter, but the Bluejays outscored Clarkson/Leigh 19-12 in the second frame to capture a 27-21 halftime lead.

GACC tripled up the Patriots 12-4 in the 3rd quarter to extend their lead to 39-25 at the end of three.

The Bluejays outscored Clarkson/Leigh 15-8 in the 4th quarter.

Lexis Haase led GACC with 25 points and 8 rebounds. Ally Plagge added 10 points and 8 rebounds while Marissa Hunke scored 7 points.

Head Coach Jerry Stracke says his team settled into the game after the 1st quarter. "I thought we were more relaxed, and we kind of settled down, and got into a groove. 1st quarter we were a little nervous I thought, played a little tight. And I thought as the game went along they did a lot better."

Stracke adds it was a strong defensive performance by his team. "I thought it was a great effort defensively by everybody. Clarkson has some great players, they're very good off the dribble. And I thought defensively we kind of shut that down a little bit. So I would have to give credit to everybody that was out on the floor."

GACC (19-6) takes on Weeping Water (17-8) in the D1-2 District Final at Wahoo Friday night.

The Indians topped Nebraska City Lourdes 47-38 in the D1-3 Sub-District Final at Raymond Central last Thursday night.

These two teams met in a District Final last year with the Bluejays winning handily, 59-18.

I look for this year's game to be similar to last year's.

GACC may not win by as much as they did last year, but I look for the Bluejays to win by at least 15 or 20.

GACC plays a very tough schedule and is battle tested, and I just don't know if Weeping Water has played the same caliber of teams.

Haase needs to have a gigantic game for the Bluejays as does Hunke and Angela Jansen.

More important than offense for GACC though is defense, in my opinion.

The Bluejays have to play in your face, suffocating defense to win this one rather handily I would say.

GACC should be able to make state even if they lose, but I don't anticipate the Bluejays having any problems Friday night.

GACC is a great team, and is having a great season, and I look for it to continue all the way to state next week.

The Bluejays are playing their best basketball at the right time, and are going to be tough for anyone to beat from here on out, that's for sure.

GACC has to play a complete game Friday night, and win big over the Indians.

It's looking like the Bluejays could get the 3 seed at the state tournament, but we'll have to wait and see how things all shake out.

GACC has to come ready to play Friday night, and I fully expect them to do just that.

I think you will see a very determined, aggressive, and motivated Bluejay team take the floor Friday night.

It should be fairly smooth sailing and another win for GACC.

Tip-off is set for 6:00 p.m.

A win ensures the Bluejays a trip to state for the 21st straight season.

BRLD Boys down Pender in regular season finale; beat Wakefield in Sub-Districts; Girls knock off Oakland-Craig in Sub-District Final

The BRLD Boys Basketball Team won 68-28 at Pender to end the regular season Friday night and 61-50 over Wakefield in the C2-3 Sub-District Semifinals at West Point-Beemer Tuesday night.

Very dominant win for the Wolverines Friday night, and a win is a win in the postseason as I'm sure BRLD will take it any way they can get it.

The Wolverines (22-2) take on Oakland-Craig (16-9) in the Sub-District Final Thursday night that will be aired on 107.9 the Bull.

The Knights won 62-58 over Omaha Nation in the other semifinal Tuesday night.

BRLD beat Oakland-Craig 66-53 in Lyons on Friday, January 12th.

This figures to be a great and electric game between two really good teams.

Both teams should get up and down the floor and run, and make this an up tempo high scoring affair.

I think offense will be a plenty in this one, and feel both teams will put up a good amount of points.

I feel the Wolverines are stronger on defense though, and feel that could be the difference in the game.

That and I think BRLD has more overall talent and depth than the Knights.

Oakland-Craig is probably more experienced and seasoned across the board, which can come into play big time in the postseason, but the Wolverines are very quick, nifty, and athletic.

BRLD currently sits 5th in power points, but lose this one and I'm not so sure the Wolverines will make state.

It's do or die for BRLD at this point I would say.

I think the Wolverines need to win to keep their season going at this point.

If BRLD beats Oakland-Craig then they should have a good shot at a wildcard even if they were to lose a district final.

The Wolverines just have to keep winning though, and do what they've done pretty much the entire season.

BRLD has to run the floor, get out in transition, and come up with timely steals and turnovers.

I think the Wolverines have a great shot to win, but it won't be easy.

I think the key is slowing down other players besides Garrett Seagren.

He can get 30 or 40 just as long as the other guys don't get 15 or 20.

Tip-off is set for 7:00 p.m. on the Bull.

It should be a great game!

The BRLD Girls Basketball Team won 52-27 over Oakland-Craig in the C2-3 Sub-District Final at West Point-Beemer Thursday night.

The Wolverines went up 10-6 after one, and outscored the Knights 18-5 in the 2nd quarter to take a 28-11 lead into the locker room.

BRLD outscored Oakland-Craig 14-6 in the 3rd quarter to go up 42-17 at the end of three.

Both teams scored 10 points in the 4th quarter.

Paige Peters led the way with 12 points while Vicki Gatzemeyer notched 8.

Great and impressive win for the Wolverines.

BRLD (21-4) takes on Stanton (22-3) in the C2-2 District Final at Wisner-Pilger Friday night.

The Mustangs won 46-39 over Howells-Dodge in the C2-4 Sub-District Final Thursday night.

Stanton beat BRLD 60-46 at home on January 20th, before the Wolverines downed the Mustangs 48-40 in double overtime in the East Husker Conference Tournament Semifinals on Thursday, February 1st in Stanton.

The Mustangs will likely make state either way, but a wildcard appears to be a stretch for the Wolverines.

This appears to be pretty much do or die for BRLD.

The Wolverines have to revert back to Lyons-Decatur Northeast's experience from two years ago.

Players like Sophia Henneman and Brandi Simonsen ought to play big roles in experience and leadership from that standpoint.

BRLD has to gear up and get ready for this huge game.

This is no doubt the biggest game of these players' lives.

All that hard work since they could dribble a basketball has come down to this one game, and this one moment.

All the blood, sweat, and tears put forth over the course of the offseasons and growing up is all for this game and this moment.

It's an opportunity to get to state and play in Lincoln, a dream some of these girls who haven't been there before would no doubt love to experience.

The Wolverines have to come out and start fast, and keep things close throughout the game.

As long as BRLD can stay within like 7 points the entire game they should be in good shape.

I think coming out and getting off to a strong start and setting the tone early is going to be huge for the Wolverines.

If BRLD can get a good lead I think they have a good chance to hang on to it.

Stanton isn't really built to come back from large deficits so if the Wolverines can get up by double digits or something like that, it could be an uphill battle for the Mustangs I would say.

Game time is set for 7:00 p.m. 

Oakland-Craig Boys beat Omaha Nation in Sub-Districts; Girls lose Sub-District Final to BRLD

The Oakland-Craig Boys Basketball Team edged Omaha Nation 62-58 in the C2-3 Sub-District Semifinals at West Point-Beemer Tuesday night.

Garrett Seagren finished with 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists while Kobe Benne and Wyatt Seagren notched 16 and 7 points, respectively.

Close game, but the Knights found a way to win, and that's all that matters this time of year.

Oakland-Craig (16-9) battles BRLD (22-2) in the Sub-District Final Thursday night that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Wolverines defeated Wakefield 61-50 in the first semifinal Tuesday night.

BRLD beat the Knights 66-53 in Lyons on January 12th.

I look for this game to be close and tight.

Garrett Seagren has to ball out for Oakland-Craig in this game.

He needs to have a Herculean like performance for the Knights to have a shot in this one.

I fully expect Oakland-Craig to push and give the Wolverines all they can handle and want.

The season is on the line for the Knights, and I totally expect Oakland-Craig to come out and play a great game.

BRLD may have more overall talent and athleticism than the Knights, but I think Oakland-Craig has more experience and is more seasoned than the Wolverines you could say.

The Knights have to stop dribble penetration from BRLD to have a shot in this one I would say.

It should be a good cat and mouse game between the two coaches who happen to be brothers...Cory Meyer of BRLD and Aaron Meyer of Oakland-Craig.

I think both teams will pick and choose their spots to get out and run, but play a halfcourt game as well.

I look for the Knights to try and control tempo, and outsmart the Wolverines.

To me this game comes down to the stars of each team.

Garrett Seagren and Benne against the likes of Lucas Vogt, Darwin Snyder, and Kenyan Lovejoy.

I feel BRLD has more weapons than Oakland-Craig, but am not sure if anyone is as great and as valuable to their team as Garrett Seagren is to the Knights.

He is the key to this game for Oakland-Craig, in my opinion, and needs to go absolute bonkers for the Knights to be able to win this one I would say.

Thursday night's game is set to tip-off at 7:00 p.m. on the Bull.

The winner gets either Battle Creek or Lutheran High Northeast in a District Final on Monday.

The Oakland-Craig Girls Basketball Team lost 52-27 to BRLD in the C2-3 Sub-District Final at West Point-Beemer Thursday night.

The Wolverines went up 10-6 after one, and outscored the Knights 18-5 in the 2nd quarter to take a 28-11 lead into the locker room.

BRLD outscored Oakland-Craig 14-6 in the 3rd quarter to go up 42-17 at the end of three.

Both teams scored 10 points in the 4th quarter.

Makenna Pearson led the way with 11 points and 9 rebounds while Natalia McNeill recorded 7 points.

Hard to lose a game like this knowing what could of been with two healthy stars.

Oakland-Craig ends the season at 12-11.

The Knights were on a roll and doing great things until Kennedy Benne tore her ACL.

Oakland-Craig had just beat Stanton right before she went down.

Other big wins this season came over Malcolm and Omaha Nation (twice).

Everyone returns for the Knights next season though, and that is the great news.

I look for Oakland-Craig to be one of the best teams in C-2 and in Northeast Nebraska next season, hands down.

Assuming Benne and Dacey Nelson come back strong from injury, I really think the Knights have a shot to win state next year.

Oakland-Craig has to play lots of ball this offseason though.

Between Volleyball and Basketball and Track or whatever other sports these girls play, they have to get after it big time.

The Knights have to really think about how they want their year to go and what they want it to be like.

Oakland-Craig has to wake up everyday dreaming big and ready to tackle the day.

The Knights have to give an all out effort in everything they do this offseason, and really get after things.

Benne and Nelson have to try and get back to normal when they can start doing stuff again.

It's tough, but they can't think about getting hurt again or what could happen.

The duo has to really put this team on their shoulders next year, and get ready for a title run.

This team has the potential to be a great team next year, one that will be remembered in Oakland-Craig lore forever, so the Knights have to really take things seriously this offseason.

Oakland-Craig has to put the time in, and work as hard as possible on the court and in the weightroom.

The Knights have to get bigger, faster, and stronger to be an even better team with their full compliment of players next season.

Winnebago Boys win at GACC to end regular season; defeat Norfolk Catholic in Sub-Districts

The Winnebago Boys Basketball Team knocked off Guardian Angels Central Catholic 80-64 on the road Friday night before winning 68-55 over Norfolk Catholic in the C1-5 Sub-District Semifinals at Norfolk High Tuesday night.

The Indians led the Bluejays 17-15 after one, and outscored GACC 23-9 in the 2nd quarter to take a 40-24 lead into the locker room.

Winnebago won the 3rd quarter 21-16 to extend the lead to 61-40 at the end of three.

The Bluejays won the 4th quarter 24-19.

Ed Payer set a new school record with 10 3's and had 36 points on the night.

Winnebago led the Knights 42-22 at halftime. Norfolk Catholic outscored the Indians 33-26 in the 2nd half.

Two good wins for Winnebago as they try and make state for the 4th year in a row.

The Indians (19-5) take on Pierce (10-12) in the Sub-District Final Thursday night.

The Bluejays upset Wayne 40-29 in the other Sub-District Semifinal Tuesday night.

I think Pierce could give Winnebago a game, but I think the Indians will be too strong and too much for the Bluejays.

Right now Winnebago sits 2nd in power points in Class C-1, and is in a good position to make state, but if they lose to Pierce, and Battle Creek loses to Lutheran High Northeast, then it could be interesting.

Reason being a loss by the Braves drops them a division and a loss to the Bluejays would really hurt the Indians' power points.

Win the sub-district final, and lose the district final to Boone Central/Newman Grove or Broken Bow and Winnebago should still make it to state with a wildcard.

Of course I'm sure the Indians would just assume win their way into state by winning a sub-district and district title, like they've done the other 3 times they've made state.

Winnebago has had a tendency to start fast, and get out to a big lead, and then let teams come back and make games closer than they should over these last couple of games.

The Indians have to turn in dominant performances from start to finish like they did at the beginning of the season.

If Winnebago is to do anything at state that is definitely something the Indians are going to need to do, in my opinion.

Winnebago has to come out and put up a big dent in the scoreboard Thursday night, and take Pierce out of the game early.

The Indians are great, and can do big things at state this year I would say, but Winnebago has to finish off opponents better in the 2nd half.

I'm sure some of that is due to playing backups, but still the Indians have to be more dominant in the second half of games they lead big.

You just don't want to get into the habit of letting teams come back on you in the second half of games.

That will eventually comeback to bite and haunt you.

Thursday night's game between Winnebago and Pierce is set to tip-off at 6:00 p.m.

Doors open at 5:00 p.m.

I would suggest getting there early as there could be a pretty big crowd.

North Bend Central Boys top Fort Calhoun in regular season finale, down Columbus Lakeview in Sub-Districts

The North Bend Central Boys Basketball Team ended the regular season strong Friday night with a 69-23 home win over Fort Calhoun before defeating Columbus Lakeview 57-51 in the C1-7 Sub-District Semifinals at Columbus High Tuesday night.

The Tigers went up 20-7 on the Pioneers at the end of one before outscoring Fort Calhoun 30-8 in the 2nd quarter to take a 50-15 lead into the locker room.

North Bend Central outscored the Pioneers 15-6 in the 3rd quarter to go up 65-21 at the end of three.

The Tigers doubled up Fort Calhoun 4-2 in the 4th quarter.

Tanner Wietfeld led North Bend Central with 23 points while John Emanuel scored 18. Jaxon Wietfeld and Austin Endorf registered 8 apiece.

The Vikings led 21-19 midway through the 2nd quarter and 25-24 at halftime.

The Tigers won the 3rd quarter 21-17 to lead 45-42 at the end of three.

North Bend Central won the 4th quarter 12-9.

Dominating performance from North Bend Central Friday night. The Tigers need another performance like that Thursday night.

North Bend Central (21-3) takes on David City Aquinas (14-9) in the Sub-District Final Thursday night.

The Monarchs knocked off Columbus Scotus 42-25 in the other semifinal Tuesday night.

Aquinas has lost to some good teams this year, and is a pretty respectable team, in my opinion.

It won't be easy for the Tigers to win, but there's no doubt they can do it.

I actually look for North Bend Central to win this one.

The path is pretty clear cut for the Tigers....win your sub-district final and district final and reach state, or lose one of those games and head home without a state berth.

There is no wildcard possibility for North Bend Central this year so the Tigers have to keep winning or their season is over.

North Bend Central has to be determined and focused Thursday night, and must take it to the Monarchs for 4 quarters.

The Tigers have to play better than they did against the Vikings Tuesday night.

North Bend Central was definitely challenged in that game, and must step up their game in order to knock off Aquinas.

The Monarchs are definitely battle tested and have played tough teams so it will be interesting to see what happens.

Aquinas has a couple of huge recent wins over Lutheran High Northeast and Centennial so the Monarchs have to be considered for real.

The Tigers have to get out and run, and hit 3's in their transition game.

Both teams like to get up and down the floor so it should be an interesting battle.

The winner gets Lincoln Christian or Milford in a District Final so it will be interesting to see what happens there.

I think best case scenario for North Bend Central is win and play the Eagles in a District Final.

The Tigers can definitely beat the Crusaders, in my opinion, but I would like North Bend Central's chances better against Milford than I would Lincoln Christian.

Thursday's game is scheduled to tip-off at 6:00 p.m.