Tekamah-Herman Boys 0-3 in last three games; Girls 1-1 in last two

The Tekamah-Herman Boys Basketball Team lost 65-28 at Logan View/Scribner-Snyder last Friday night in action aired on 107.9 the Bull before falling 70-43 at home to Arlington on Saturday and 66-46 at Omaha Brownell Talbot Thursday night.

LVSS led the Tigers 24-9 after one, and won the 2nd quarter 15-7 to build a 39-16 halftime advantage.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder outscored Tekamah-Herman 16-5 in the 3rd quarter to go up 55-21 at the end of three.

The Raiders won the 4th quarter 10-7.

The Eagles went up 22-9 at the end of one, and doubled up the Tigers 24-12 in the 2nd quarter to take a 46-21 lead into the locker room.

Arlington won the 3rd quarter 12-9 to go up 58-30 at the end of three.

Tekamah-Herman won the 4th quarter 13-12.

I thought the Tigers did some good things against Omaha Brownell Talbot.

Tekamah-Herman (0-8) takes on Parkview Christian (3-3) in the first round of the Nebraska Wesleyan Holiday Tournament on Thursday.

The Patriots won 92-40 at home over Whiting, IA Thursday night.

Despite that, I think the Tigers can win this one.

Parkview Christian is a D-2 School and Tekamah-Herman is C-2.

In most cases, the larger school wins so we'll see if that holds true for the Tigers come Thursday.

I think Tekamah-Herman has to be encouraged by their effort against Omaha Brownell Talbot.

It is the Tigers' closest game of the season and something to build off of.

Tekamah-Herman has to take a deep breath and relax over this five-day moratorium.

The Tigers have to be ready to get back at it on Thursday though.

Tekamah-Herman has to come out inspired and must play well.

The Tigers can't afford to come out sluggish or flat.

Tekamah-Herman has to turn in a quality performance on Thursday.

The Tigers could definitely use a great effort defensively.

A good defense often leads to a good offense, and that has to be the case for Tekamah-Herman in this Holiday Tournament.

The Tigers have to take the fight to the Patriots for four quarters.

Tekamah-Herman has to play a complete game and show some pride.

The Tigers have to be upset about all the losing that has transpired this year, and must do something about it.

Tekamah-Herman picked up what could be considered a moral victory on Thursday, now they need to pick up an actual win this coming Thursday.

Tip-off is set for 10:15 a.m.

The Tigers will play either Humphrey St. Francis or Southern next Friday on Day two of the Tournament.

The Tekamah-Herman Girls picked up a 47-45 overtime win at Logan View/Scribner-Snyder last Friday night in action aired on 107.9 the Bull before falling 60-28 at home to Arlington on Saturday.

The Raiders and Tigers were tied at 8 after one before Tekamah-Herman won the 2nd quarter 16-15 to take a 24-23 lead into the locker room.

The Tigers won the 3rd quarter 10-7 to go up 34-30 at the end of three.

LVSS outscored Tekamah-Herman 10-6 in the 4th quarter to tie the game up at 40 and send it into OT.

The Tigers outlasted the Raiders 7-5 in the extra session.

The Eagles quadrupled up Tekamah-Herman 16-4 in the 1st quarter before outscoring the Tigers 20-12 in the 2nd quarter to take a 36-16 lead into the locker room.

Arlington outscored Tekamah-Herman 13-7 in the 3rd quarter to extend their lead to 49-23 at the end of three.

The Eagles won the 4th quarter 11-5.

Great effort by the Tigers last Friday night, but it appears Tekamah-Herman took a step back on Saturday.

The Tigers (2-6) battle Parkview Christian (1-4) in the first round of the Nebraska Wesleyan Holiday Tournament Thursday morning.

The Patriots won 46-40 at home over Whiting, IA Thursday night.

Tekamah-Herman should be able to pick up a win in this one I would think.

Things could be very defensive and low scoring, but I fully expect the Tigers to pick up the win.

The winner gets either Humphrey St. Francis or Southern, and both of those teams are 7-1.

Tekamah-Herman has to compete hard and expect to win in this tournament.

There are some good teams in this tournament so the Tigers have to step their game up.

Tekamah-Herman can definitely make hay in this Tournament they just need to come ready to play on Thursday.

The Tigers have to not only win, but win big on Thursday.

Tekamah-Herman needs an inspired effort like they got against Logan View/Scribner-Snyder.

The Tigers have to dominate and suffocate the Patriots defensively.

Tekamah-Herman has to also find their rhythm offensively, and find some good looks at the basket and knock down some open shots.

Getting the ball down low and getting to the free throw line and converting charity stripe shots and layups is important too for the Tigers, in my opinion.

Stopping dribble penetration and playing help side defense is important too I would say.

Tekamah-Herman also needs to box out and rebound well.

The Tigers need to play hard for four quarters and get a great effort.

Tekamah-Herman has to play with fire, passion, toughness, tenacity, and grit.

Tip-off is scheduled for 8:30 a.m.

I know it's an early tip-off time, but the Tigers have to get a good night's sleep Wednesday night and be sharp and ready to play Thursday morning.

Oakland-Craig Boys 3-1 in last four games; Girls 3-0 in last three

The Oakland-Craig Boys lost 58-50 at home to Wisner-Pilger last Thursday night in action heard on 107.9 the Bull before winning 78-58 at home over Madison on Saturday, 51-45 at GACC Tuesday night, and 64-57 at home over Omaha Nation Thursday night.

The Gators jumped out to a 17-6 lead at the end of one. Both teams scored 16 points in the 2nd quarter, and the score was 33-22 at halftime in favor of Wisner-Pilger.

The Gators won the 3rd quarter 9-7 to go up 42-29 at the end of three.

Oakland-Craig outscored Wisner-Pilger 21-16 in the 4th quarter.

S&W Welding Player of the Game Garrison Dodge had 14 points while Robby Mayberry added 12. Colton Thomsen chipped in 9 points and 9 rebounds.

Oakland-Craig Head Coach Aaron Meyer says Dodge and Mayberry have really stepped up this season. "Yeah they work hard, they scramble. They try to turn good defense into offense, and whether it's shooting some outside shots or getting some fast break points. But yeah they're working hard."

The Dragons led 15-11 after one before the Knights outscored Madison 28-13 in the 2nd quarter to take a 39-28 lead into the locker room.

Oakland-Craig outscored the Dragons 17-12 in the 3rd quarter to go up 56-40 at the end of three.

The Knights won the 4th quarter 22-18.

Jared Mulder led all scorers with 25 points while Thomsen totaled 16. Wyatt Seagren added 11 points and 12 rebounds, good enough for a double-double, while Tyson Harney notched 8 points and 7 rebounds. Jaron Meyer recorded 8 points while Dodge notched 7.

GACC went up 19-11 on the Knights after one before Oakland-Craig won the 2nd quarter 9-5 to make it a 24-20 game in favor of GACC heading into the locker room.

The Knights outscored the Bluejays 18-10 in the 3rd quarter to go up 38-34 at the end of three.

Oakland-Craig won the 4th quarter 13-11.

Mayberry had a team-high 12 points while Thomsen totaled 10. Mulder and Seagren recorded 7 apiece.

The Knights and Chiefs were tied at 8 at the end of one. Oakland-Craig outscored Omaha Nation 22-15 in the 2nd quarter to take a 30-23 lead into the locker room.

The Chiefs won the 3rd quarter 16-15 to make it a 45-39 game at the end of three.

The Knights won the 4th quarter 19-18.

Mayberry registered 17 points while Mulder and Meyer had 13 and 10, respectively. Seagren added 8 rebounds.

Oakland-Craig seemed to pick up their play following the loss to Wisner-Pilger.

The Knights (6-4) battle Centennial (6-1) next Friday at the Malcolm Holiday Tournament.

The Broncos rolled Nebraska Christian 59-33 on the road Thursday night.

This figures to be a heck of a matchup.

These two teams met in the State Semifinals in Football and now they matchup in Basketball.

Oakland-Craig is going to need to play a great game in order to come out on top though.

The Knights should be able to give the Broncos a run for their money at the very least given how they've played the last few games.

If Oakland-Craig is on their game they can beat anybody.

The Knights should enjoy their rest and relax during the moratorium period, but be ready to rock and roll once it ends.

Oakland-Craig has to get off to a strong start and play well the whole game really to knock off Centennial.

The Knights are going to need to play their best game of the year to win I would say.

Oakland-Craig has to come out and play aggressive basketball, and must want it more than the Broncos.

Jackson Hirschfeld and Caleb Horne are the two players to watch out for for Centennial.

The two combined for 35 points against the Eagles Thursday night.

I think the Knights are going to need to get it done on the defensive end of the floor to win this one.

The Broncos have been very strong and good on defense so Oakland-Craig has to match that and play well.

The Knights also have to play a great offensive game, and find a winning formula next Friday.

Oakland-Craig can definitely do it, they just need a great team effort.

Tip-off is slated for 4:30 p.m.

The Knights will take on either Malcolm or Wilber-Clatonia on the second day of the Tournament next Saturday.

The Oakland-Craig Girls won 54-37 at home over Wisner-Pilger last Thursday night before dominating Madison 71-38 at home on Saturday, and Omaha Nation 79-38 at home Thursday night.

Against the Gators, Oakland-Craig went on a 12-0 run to go up 16-4 after the game was tied at 4 in the early going.

The Knights led 22-6 after one, and won the 2nd quarter 14-9 to take a 36-15 lead into the locker room.

Oakland-Craig, who led by as many as 25 at one point in both the 1st and 2nd halfs, won the 3rd quarter 12-8 to lead 48-23 at the end of three.

The Gators outscored the Knights 14-6 in the 4th quarter.

Oakland-Craig's Dacey Nelson, who was the S&W Welding Player of the Game for Oakland-Craig, led all scorers with 36 points. Oakland-Craig Head Coach Joe Anderson says Nelson is a great player. "She's someone who's put in an unlimited amount of time to get to where she's gotten. And to see her miss last year was really disappointing because I knew how hard she worked, but I'm really, really proud of how she's battled back and she's playing really really good basketball right now. I think she's averaging 28 points a game and really leading us. And with Kennedy (Benne) out here for another couple weeks we really needed her to step up her scoring and we tried to get some of the other girls to step up their scoring, and we're seeing flashes of that. Just hopefully these next couple of games before break we can put it all together on the offensive side."




Jeannina Blahak added 9 rebounds.

Anderson says the game was a tale of two halfs. "We talked about we wanted to come out and play with more intensity this week. And I thought we did that. I was pleased with the 1st half. Even though we did not shoot the ball real well tonight. We were able to create a bunch of offense with our press and our full court defense. But a little disappointed in the 2nd half. I didn't feel like we came out and played with intensity, and the game was in control, but yet we weren't able to extend. I know we had a lot of players in the game and things like that, but that's a part of our game we need to really fix."

The Knights led the Dragons 41-15 at halftime. Oakland-Craig outscored Madison 21-15 in the 2nd quarter to take a 62-30 lead into the locker room.

The Knights won the 4th quarter 9-8.

Nelson led all scorers with 28 points while Blahak totaled 9. Mya Guzinski added 9 rebounds.

Oakland-Craig doubled up Omaha Nation 20-10 in the 1st quarter, and quadrupled up the Chiefs 32-8 in the 2nd quarter to take a 52-18 lead into the locker room.

The Knights claimed the 3rd quarter 15-10 to up the advantage to 67-28 at the end of three.

Oakland-Craig won the 4th quarter 12-10.

Nelson led the way with 34 points while Ashley Denton notched 9 and Blahak compiled 8.

Really dominant play from the Knights over their last three games.

Oakland-Craig (8-0) takes on Centennial (6-1) next Friday at the Malcolm Holiday Tournament.

The Broncos won 44-21 at Nebraska Christian Thursday night.

Centennial is a good, solid team, but I don't think they've been as dominant as the Knights.

Oakland-Craig has played incredible basketball so far this season, and has to be very proud and happy with where they are.

The Knights are only going to be that much better when they get Benne back.

If Nelson continues to play the way she has all season then Oakland-Craig should have a very strong chance of winning this Holiday Tournament.

The Knights are in the midst of one of the greatest runs if not the greatest run in School History.

This team has to dream big and visualize what's it like to cut down nets and hold up trophies.

Oakland-Craig has to run and gun, and get out and dominate the Broncos from start to finish.

The winner gets either Malcolm or Wilber-Clatonia in the Championship, and if the Knights get past Centennial I think they have a great chance to win the Tournament.

A Holiday Tournament win would be a good way to start the list of Championship accomplishments for Oakland-Craig.

I feel this is just the start of great things to come for the Knights this season.

Oakland-Craig is a great team, and I feel the best is yet to come for the Knights.

Oakland-Craig has already done some great and amazing things this year, and I look for the Knights to keep doing their thing.

Oakland-Craig is an amazing team, and they have to be thinking really big things this season.

No dream is too big, no mountain is too high or tall for the Knights as far as I'm concerned.

Oakland-Craig has to keep dreaming big and believing that they are the better team whenever they take to the floor.

Tip-off next Friday is scheduled for 3:00 p.m.

West Point-Beemer Boys lose to Omaha Roncalli and Fort Calhoun; Girls beat both along with Bergan

The West Point-Beemer Boys Basketball Team lost 57-28 at home to Omaha Roncalli last Friday night before falling 50-39 at Fort Calhoun Thursday night.

The Crimson Pride went up 13-2 after one, and outscored the Cadets 20-4 in the 2nd quarter to take a 33-6 lead into the locker room.

Roncalli won the 3rd quarter 15-11 to extend their lead to 48-17 at the end of three.

West Point-Beemer won the 4th quarter 11-9.

Blake Anderson had 19 points while Zach Vander Griend added 7 rebounds.

The Pioneers went up 15-7 at the end of one, and won the 2nd quarter 13-9 to take a 28-16 lead into the locker room.

Fort Calhoun owned the 3rd quarter 15-12 to extend their lead to 43-28 at the end of three.

The Cadets outscored the Pioneers 11-7 in the 4th quarter.

Anderson led the way with 13 points while Keegan Doggett totaled 11. Vander Griend recorded 8 rebounds.

I thought Anderson and Vander Griend showed some consistency offensively and defensively, respectively.

West Point-Beemer (3-3) faces Hartington Cedar Catholic (3-1) in the first round of the Great Northeast Nebraska Shootout at Wayne State on Thursday.

The Trojans lost 63-42 to South Sioux City at the Knight Classic in Fremont Thursday night.

All of Cedar Catholic's wins have come by double digits this year so the Cadets definitely have their work cut out for them.

West Point-Beemer has to put the last two losses behind them.

I don't think the Cadets played their best basketball, and look for West Point-Beemer to regroup and right the ship on Thursday.

Every single team is respectable in this Tournament, and West Point-Beemer has to step up and perform better than they did against Roncalli and Fort Calhoun.

Scoring has to be better for the Cadets.

I feel West Point-Beemer has continued to play solid defense, but the offense has been a struggle for the Cadets the last couple of games.

West Point-Beemer has to get back to playing the type of offense they did in their wins.

The Cadets have to enjoy their break and time off, but be ready to go as soon as Thursday hits and comes around.

West Point-Beemer has to come out and play a good game on Thursday, and get back to playing the type of basketball they were prior to the Roncalli game.

The Cadets have definitely hit a struggling point in their last two games, but all teams go through periods of struggle, and the good news is there's plenty of time to get back on track.

This Holiday Tournament figures to be tough and competitive, and West Point-Beemer has to step up their game and play well.

The game is scheduled to tip-off at 11:00 a.m. at Rice Auditorium.

The Cadets will either play Norfolk Catholic or Laurel-Concord-Coleridge in their second game of the Tournament next Friday.

The West Point-Beemer Girls have been super dominant in their last three games, blasting Omaha Roncalli 70-43 at home last Friday night, winning 37-24 at Fremont Bergan Tuesday night, and rolling Fort Calhoun 64-14 on the road Thursday night.

The Cadets led the Crimson Pride 18-10 after one before Roncalli won the 3rd quarter 13-8 to make it a 26-23 game at halftime.

West Point-Beemer outscored the Crimson Pride 19-9 in the 3rd quarter to go up 45-32 at the end of three.

The Cadets outscored Roncalli 25-11 in the 4th quarter.

Sierra Kile had 26 points and 8 rebounds while Sidney Swanson totaled 13 points and 9 rebounds. Andrea Hoffman chipped in 12 points while Abbey Dale notched 8. Brooke Haase registered 7 rebounds.

West Point-Beemer went up on the Knights 9-5 after one before Bergan won the 2nd quarter 7-6 to make it a 15-12 game at halftime in favor of the Cadets.

The Cadets won the 3rd quarter 12-8 to go up 27-20 at the end of three.

West Point-Beemer outscored the Knights 10-4 in the 4th quarter.

Kile led the way with 12 points and 7 rebounds while Swanson totaled 9 points.

The Cadets shutout the Pioneers 26-0 in the 1st quarter, and outscored Fort Calhoun 23-5 in the 2nd quarter to take a 49-5 lead into the locker room.

West Point-Beemer won the 3rd quarter 10-6 to extend their lead to 59-11 at the end of three.

The Cadets won the 4th quarter 5-3.

Hoffman paced West Point-Beemer with 13 points while Swanson posted 11. Dale compiled 10 while Kile notched 9 points and 7 rebounds.

The Cadets are playing great basketball right now. What West Point-Beemer is doing is simply incredible.

The Cadets (7-0) take on Hartington Cedar Catholic (2-2) in the first round of the Great Northeast Nebraska Shootout at Wayne State Thursday morning.

The Trojans defeated Norfolk Catholic 47-31 at home last Monday night.

It will be interesting to see how both teams come out in this one.

I think the long layoff could negatively affect Cedar Catholic.

I feel West Point-Beemer will be in prime shape to take aim at the Holiday Tournament Championship, and will be refreshed and ready to go.

It's as if the Cadets are on a domination tour.

West Point-Beemer is knocking out teams one by one, and it has been very impressive thus far.

The Cadets have to stay humble and must keep getting the same kind of production they have from everyone offensively though.

I think Kile has made a really big difference for this team.

I feel West Point-Beemer is a complete team with her.

The Cadets are playing lights out defense, and the offense has been pretty darn good too.

West Point-Beemer is doing a lot of special things this year and it has been super impressive.

The Cadets are having a dream season, and have played great and lights out so far this season.

West Point-Beemer is reaching their full potential if not overachieving, and it has been a great sight to see.

The Cadets need to enjoy their well deserved time off, but be ready to take aim at a Holiday Tournament Championship once Thursday rolls around.

This team has big time dreams and expectations without a doubt, and a Holiday Tournament Championship would be a big time step for West Point-Beemer.

The Cadets have a chance to win a Championship and make a push for other Championships.

It's time for West Point-Beemer to get the job done and continue their stellar play.

Tip-off between the Cadets and Trojans is scheduled for 9:30 a.m.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder Boys and Girls 1-1 in last two games

The Logan View/Scribner-Snyder Boys Basketball Team won 65-28 at home over Tekamah-Herman Friday night in action heard on 107.9 the Bull before falling 61-59 in overtime at DC West Tuesday night.

The Raiders led the Tigers 24-9 after one, and won the 2nd quarter 15-7 to build a 39-16 halftime advantage.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder outscored Tekamah-Herman 16-5 in the 3rd quarter to go up 55-21 at the end of three.

The Raiders won the 4th quarter 10-7.

Trystain Roseberry had a game-high 28 points and 10 rebounds, good enough for a double-double, while Jayden Korman had 8 points.

DC West led 13-11 after one. Both teams scored 14 points in the 2nd quarter, and the Falcons held a 27-25 halftime advantage.

The Raiders outscored DC West 15-7 in the 3rd quarter to go in front 40-34 at the end of three.

The Falcons outscored LVSS 19-13 in the 4th quarter to force overtime.

DC West outlasted the Raiders 8-6 in the extra session.

Nice big win for LVSS on Friday, but a tough loss on Tuesday.

The Raiders (4-3) take on Fort Calhoun (4-4) in their first game of the Elmwood-Murdock Holiday Tournament in Murdock next Friday afternoon.

The Pioneers beat West Point-Beemer 50-39 at home Thursday night.

This figures to be a tough and challenging game for Logan View/Scribner-Snyder.

Fort Calhoun beat DC West 53-45 if you're comparing scores.

The Raiders definitely have what it takes though they just need to play their best basketball.

It's a pretty good, even Holiday Tournament.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder wants to be playing for a championship and not consolation though.

The Raiders have to enjoy this time off during the Holiday Moratorium, but be ready to get back after things as soon as it ends.

LVSS has turned some heads and done some nice things so far this season, but the Raiders have to keep pushing to improve.

This Holiday Tournament will test and challenge Logan View/Scribner-Snyder so the Raiders have to be on top of their game.

LVSS has to play four quarters of basketball both games, and push both teams they play to the brink.

Roseberry has done some nice things for the Raiders this year, and other players are coming along nicely too.

I've been impressed with Logan View/Scribner-Snyder, and look for them to make a push in this Holiday Tournament.

The Raiders should enjoy the time away from the game, but be focused and ready to go when it's go time again.

Exercising and not just sitting around is going to be important for LVSS I feel.

The Raider players have to be active with family activities and things of that sort, and need to avoid just sitting around.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder and Fort Calhoun are scheduled to tip things off at 1:00 p.m.

LVSS will play either Elmwood-Murdock or Omaha Brownell Talbot on the second day of the Tournament next Saturday.

The Logan View/Scribner-Snyder Girls lost 47-45 in overtime at home to Tekamah-Herman Friday night in action heard on 107.9 the Bull before winning 66-41 at DC West Tuesday night.

The Raiders and Tigers were tied at 8 after one before Tekamah-Herman won the 2nd quarter 16-15 to take a 24-23 lead into the locker room.

The Tigers won the 3rd quarter 10-7 to go up 34-30 at the end of three.

LVSS outscored Tekamah-Herman 10-6 in the 4th quarter to tie the game up at 40 and send it into OT.

The Tigers outlasted the Raiders 7-5 in the extra session.

Shaylin Daugherty had 18 points and 19 rebounds, good enough for a double-double, while Valerie Uehling notched 9 points.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder doubled up DC West 16-8 in the 1st quarter before outscoring the Falcons 22-15 in the 2nd quarter to take a 38-23 lead into the locker room.

The Raiders won the 3rd quarter 13-11 to go up 51-34 at the end of three.

LVSS outscored DC West 15-7 in the 4th quarter.

Daugherty notched a double-double of 22 points and 13 rebounds while Josie Kahlandt and Ashley Peters registered 14 and 11 points, respectively.

Tough loss Friday night, but a nice job bouncing back Tuesday night.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder (2-5) takes on Omaha Brownell Talbot (5-2) at the Elmwood-Murdock Holiday Tournament in Murdock next Friday.

Brownell Talbot may be 5-2, but I think LVSS can definitely win.

It won't come easy though as Brownell Talbot appears to be a fairly solid team.

This whole Holiday Tournament is wide open though, and Logan View/Scribner-Snyder has to feel like they can win it.

LVSS has had some tough losses this year, but appeared to have played pretty well Tuesday night.

66 points is a nice scoring output, and it's always good anytime you hold your opponent to under 50 points.

LVSS should enjoy the time off with their families with Christmas and everything, but be ready to get back after things after the five-day moratorium ends.

LVSS has to come out sharp, on fire, and inspired next Friday.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder has to wake up and be ready to tackle the day.

LVSS has to play their hearts out and play and fight for a championship.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder has everything to gain in this Holiday Tournament and absolutely nothing to lose.

LVSS has to take care of the ball well, get the ball inside to Daugherty, and knock down open jumpers.

Daugherty has to continue to dominate on the boards like she has, and keep taking teams and opposing players to school.

She has really stepped up her game and it has been a welcomed sign for Logan View/Scribner-Snyder without a doubt.

LVSS has to keep getting big contributions from her and others need to follow suit.

Uehling, Kahlandt, and Peters all showed they can step up and score, now it's a matter of doing it consistently like Daugherty.

Next Friday's game is scheduled to start at 11:30 a.m.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder will face either Fort Calhoun or Elmwood-Murdock next Saturday in their second game.

Clarkson/Leigh Boys 1-2, Girls 2-1 in last three games

The Clarkson/Leigh Boys Basketball Team won 75-57 at home over Madison last Thursday night before falling 71-38 at home to Howells-Dodge on Saturday in action heard on 107.9 the Bull, and 70-50 at Columbus Lakeview Tuesday night.

The Dragons went up 12-11 after one on the Patriots before Clarkson/Leigh won the 2nd quarter 16-12 to take a 27-24 halftime lead.

The Patriots won the 3rd quarter 15-12 to go up 42-36 at the end of three.

Clarkson/Leigh outscored Madison 33-21 in the 4th quarter.

Jarred Novotny had 21 points and 7 rebounds while Tommy McEvoy registered 18 points and 7 rebounds. Daniel Beller had a double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds while Carter Hanel had his own double-double of 10 points and 13 rebounds.

Howells-Dodge led the Patriots 14-11 at the end of one, and won the 2nd quarter 15-10 to take a 29-21 lead into the locker room.

The Jaguars outscored Clarkson/Leigh 20-7 in the 3rd quarter to extend their lead to 49-28 at the end of three.

Howells-Dodge outscored the Patriots 22-10 in the 4th quarter.

Beller had 18 points and 8 rebounds while McEvoy notched 11 points. Novotny added 9 rebounds.

The Vikings led 15-8 after one and outscored Clarkson/Leigh 19-9 in the 2nd quarter to go up 34-17 at halftime.

The Patriots won the 3rd quarter 19-12 to make it a 46-36 game at the end of three.

Lakeview outscored Clarkson/Leigh 24-14 in the 4th quarter.

Hanel and Beller each had 15 points while Novotny totaled 10.

Head Coach Jeff Bachman on the loss. "I thought the guys battled, played really hard for us. I appreciate the effort from them. Howells-Dodge is a very good team, they're very well coached. And I think they showed they have had a little more depth than us tonight."

I feel the Patriots have played pretty good basketball over the course of their last three games with the exception of the 2nd half against the Jaguars.

Clarkson/Leigh (2-5) battles Arcadia-Loup City (4-3) in the fist round of the Shelby-Rising City Holiday Tournament next Thursday.

The Rebels lost 45-38 in overtime at St. Paul Friday night.

Arcadia-Loup City is a tough team being a defending State qualifier and everything.

The Patriots definitely have their work cut out for them in this one.

Clarkson/Leigh will either play the host Huskies or Friend next Friday in the second game of the tournament.

The Patriots should definitely aim for winning the whole thing, but even if that doesn't happen I feel a win is very possible and likely for Clarkson/Leigh in this tournament.

The Patriots are improving and playing better now it's just matter of shoring up the defense.

Clarkson/Leigh has four players who can really score the ball, now it's just a matter of getting some stops and consistency defensively.

The Patriots need to enjoy the break and time off with their families, but be ready to get back after things following the five-day Holiday Moratorium.

Clarkson/Leigh has to get ready to grind and must play hard nosed, tough, tenacious defense next Thursday.

The Patriots playing a pro C-2, C-1 schedule should help them going up against a C-2 foe in the Rebels.

Clarkson/Leigh has absolutely nothing to lose in this one, and I look for the Patriots to play well.

I think you will see an inspired and motivated Clarkson/Leigh team take to the floor next Thursday.

The Patriots have to get big contributions from their Big 4, and get good rebounding from everyone.

Clarkson/Leigh has to keep turning the corner and improving.

I thought the Patriots played well against the Dragons and Vikings.

Now it's simply a matter of becoming consistent and continuing to make progress.

Next Thursday's game against Arcadia-Loup City will tip-off at 3:45 p.m.

The Clarkson/Leigh Girls won 49-22 at home over Madison last Thursday night, and then defeated Howells-Dodge 48-46 at home on Saturday in action heard on 107.9 the Bull before falling 36-33 at Columbus Lakeview Tuesday night.

The Patriots held a 13-6 lead on the Dragons after one before winning the 2nd quarter 10-7 to take a 23-13 lead into the locker room.

Clarkson/Leigh outscored Madison 16-1 in the 3rd quarter to go up 39-14 at the end of three.

The Patriots won the 4th quarter 10-8.

Kaegan Held had 14 points while Halee Steffensmeier totaled 8. Alissa Kasik added 7 while Ashlynn Novotny posted 7 rebounds.

The Jaguars got out to a 14-12 lead on the Patriots after one, and outscored Clarkson/Leigh 16-7 in the 2nd quarter to take a 30-19 lead into the locker room.

The Patriots doubled up Howells-Dodge 20-10 in the 3rd quarter to make it a 40-39 game at the end of three in favor of the Jaguars.

Clarkson/Leigh won the 4th quarter 9-6.

Held led the way with 12 points while Hannah Kasik and Novotny had 9 apiece. Alissa Kasik chipped in 8.

Head Coach Matt Murren on the win. "Our kids battled. I'm incredibly proud of the way we kept our composure. Howells-Dodge played a great game tonight. I mean they played fantastic. They made what 4 or 5 3's I think it was. And they played fantastic basketball, and we played fine."

Murren credits his team for staying the course and fighting for four quarters. "The kids today, I was so proud of the way they stayed calm. They just continued to play and continued to grind. And you look at our schedule, you ask how the season went... our last Friday night we had a heck of a game against BRLD here. Very similar situation, down 11 at halftime. And we clawed our way back and stayed composed, and did just enough to win. And that's what veterans teams do is stay composed, and they do the things, and just continue to grind."

The Patriots led the Vikings 10-7 after one before Lakeview outscored Clarkson/Leigh 14-8 in the 2nd quarter to take a 21-18 lead into the locker room.

Both teams scored 7 points in the 3rd quarter, and the score was 28-25 at the end of three in favor of the Vikings.

Both teams scored 8 points in the 4th quarter.

Held paced the Patriots with 9 points while Beth Wiese notched 8. Hannah Kasik registered 10 rebounds.

Great stretch of games for Clarkson/Leigh. A 3-point loss at Lakeview is a good loss if there ever was one.

The Patriots (6-2) take on Arcadia/Loup City (4-3) at the Shelby-Rising City Holiday Tournament next Thursday.

The Rebels lost 37-34 at St. Paul Friday night.

This will be a challenging game for Clarkson/Leigh no doubt, but I look for the Patriots to find a way to win.

I think Clarkson/Leigh's defense will make the difference in this one.

The winner of this game should win the Holiday Tournament.

I feel the Patriots will do enough to win next Thursday.

Clarkson/Leigh has to enjoy their time off, but be ready to go again after the five-day moratorium ends.

The Patriots have to take the fight to Arcadia-Loup City for four quarters, and play their game.

I think this tournament is a nice opportunity for Clarkson/Leigh to play some teams they normally don't face.

It's the type of scenario it will be in the postseason in terms of neutral court and different opponents should the Patriots make Sub-State and State.

Clarkson/Leigh has to use this game with the Rebels as preparation to win championships.

A win over Arcadia-Loup City and another win over either Friend or Shelby-Rising City in the Championship next Friday would be a big, positive step towards the Patriots accomplishing their goals and dreams.

Clarkson/Leigh is kind of in uncharted territory for their program, and it's exciting.

This is the best the Patriots have done in the last four years and perhaps even in co-op history.

It's an exciting time to be a Patriot, and Clarkson/Leigh has to keep the wagon and train going.

The Patriots have to take another step towards their ultimate goal and win a Holiday Tournament Championship next week.

Winning the Holiday Tournament could lead to even bigger things down the line for this team.

Next Thursday's game will tip-off at 2:00 p.m.

Howells-Dodge Boys upset BRLD, beat Clarkson/Leigh; Girls lose to both

The Howells-Dodge Boys Basketball Team upset BRLD 61-51 at home Friday night before routing Clarkson/Leigh 71-38 on the road Saturday.

The Wolverines got out to a 17-7 lead after one before the Jaguars outscored BRLD 21-4 in the 2nd quarter to take a 28-21 lead into the locker room.

Both teams scored 16 points in the 3rd quarter, and the score after three was 44-37 in favor of Howells-Dodge.

The Jaguars won the 4th quarter 17-14.

Howells-Dodge led the Patriots 14-11 at the end of one, and won the 2nd quarter 15-10 to take a 29-21 lead into the locker room.

The Jaguars outscored Clarkson/Leigh 20-7 in the 3rd quarter to extend their lead to 49-28 at the end of three.

Howells-Dodge outscored the Patriots 22-10 in the 4th quarter.

I don't know what happened or got into the Jaguars over the weekend, but Howells-Dodge played amazing basketball.

The Jaguars (5-3) battle Homer (1-5) at the Howells-Dodge Holiday Tournament next Friday night.

The Knights lost 56-34 at Lawton-Bronson, IA Tuesday night.

If Howells-Dodge comes out and plays the way they did this past weekend they should win easily and going away.

The Jaguars have to enjoy their time off with the moratorium, but be ready to get back after things after the dead period ends.

Howells-Dodge has to enjoy the time off with their families for the Christmas Holiday, and rest and heal their bodies if they haven't been able to do that already.

You worry some about the Jaguars being a little rusty next Friday with the long layoff.

I'm sure Howells-Dodge would just assume keep playing games and not stop now.

With that said, the Jaguars have been battling some injuries so perhaps the moratorium is coming at a good time for Howells-Dodge.

The players still need to be active during the break though and not just sit around and do nothing for five days.

The Jaguars have to excite themselves about the opportunity of winning the Holiday Tournament to go along with their Christmas Celebrations.

Howells-Dodge has to be excited about hosting their own Holiday Tournament this year.

The Jaguars have a legit chance to win it, and Howells-Dodge has to get ready to defend their home court.

Howells-Dodge can't overlook Homer though.

I'm sure the Jaguars are banking on a rematch with BRLD in the Championship next Saturday, but Howells-Dodge has to take care of business against the Knights first.

The Jaguars have to come out with intensity, passion, desire, and fire next Friday night, and be ready to dominate Homer from start to finish.

Howells-Dodge and Homer are scheduled to play the boys night game at 7:15 p.m.

The Howells-Dodge Girls lost 63-45 at home to BRLD Friday night, and 48-46 at Clarkson/Leigh on Saturday.

The Wolverines led the Jaguars 16-8 after one before Howells-Dodge won the 2nd quarter 12-11 to make it a 27-20 game at halftime in favor of BRLD.

The Wolverines outscored the Jaguars 18-8 in the 3rd quarter to go up 45-28 at the end of three.

BRLD won the 4th quarter 18-17.

Jessi Brester had 18 points and 14 rebounds, good enough for a double-double. Cassie Pieper added 9 points.

The Jaguars got out to a 14-12 lead on the Patriots after one, and outscored Clarkson/Leigh 16-7 in the 2nd quarter to take a 30-19 lead into the locker room.

The Patriots doubled up Howells-Dodge 20-10 in the 3rd quarter to make it a 40-39 game at the end of three in favor of the Jaguars.

Clarkson/Leigh won the 4th quarter 9-6.

Brester had 15 points and 7 rebounds while Erin Prusa notched 11 points. Pieper added 8 points.

Great effort from the Jaguars on Saturday. Coming up short the way they did was very frustrating though I'm sure.

Howells-Dodge (1-7) takes on Guardian Angels Central Catholic (8-1) next Friday at the Howells-Dodge Holiday Tournament.

The Bluejays won 58-55 at home over Wayne on Monday.

The Jaguars have played a gauntlet of a schedule, and it doesn't let up much next Friday.

Howells-Dodge has their work cut out for them in this tournament with BRLD and Homer on the other side.

This is a really good Holiday Tournament with a lot of good teams in it.

I feel the Jaguars are a better team than their record indicates, they've just played a gauntlet of a schedule.

The schedule lightens up in the second half of the season for Howells-Dodge so I look for the Jaguars to play well and make a run in January and February.

Howells-Dodge has dealt with injuries and a very tough schedule the first part of the season, but hopefully the Jaguars will get everyone back and go on to have a nice and fine season.

Howells-Dodge has to enjoy themselves over the Christmas Holiday and enjoy the break, but be ready to get back to work and go hard at it after the five-day moratorium.

I think not having to travel for the Holiday Tournament is an advantage for the Jaguars.

Howells-Dodge has to defend their home court and take pride in the fact that they're hosting.

The Jaguars have a huge challenge in front of them next Friday, but games aren't played on paper, and so Howells-Dodge has to regroup and get ready to play the Bluejays.

The Jaguars need to rest over this moratorium period and be fresh and re-energized come next Friday.

Howells-Dodge has to get excited about the opportunity to take on GACC.

You can bet the Bluejays will be sharp and ready to go so the Jaguars need to be as well.

I think Howells-Dodge can definitely compete and keep things close with GACC.

Slowing down players like Sophia Hass, Brenna Rief, Marissa Hunke, Greta Vering, and Angela Jansen will be critical, in my opinion.

Tip-off is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. in Howells.

BRLD Boys upset at Howells-Dodge; Girls 3-0 in last three games

The BRLD Boys Basketball Team was upset 61-51 at Howells-Dodge Friday night.

The Wolverines got out to a 17-7 lead after one before the Jaguars outscored BRLD 21-4 in the 2nd quarter to take a 28-21 lead into the locker room.

Both teams scored 16 points in the 3rd quarter, and the score after three was 44-37 in favor of Howells-Dodge.

The Jaguars won the 4th quarter 17-14.

I was very surprised and shocked that the Wolverines lost this game. Just goes to show anything can happen in the game of Basketball though.

BRLD (4-1) hosts Ponca (6-0) Friday night in action that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Indians won 60-46 at Crofton Tuesday night.

Ponca is a great team and has a great record, but the Indians haven't had the most difficult schedule.

Ponca has one win over a team with a winning record, and all the other wins are over teams with 1 or 0 wins.

So what I'm saying is if the Wolverines play a great game and get back to the way they were playing before the game with the Jaguars I think BRLD can definitely get the job done.

The Wolverines need this game in a big way too following the tough loss to Howells-Dodge.

BRLD doesn't want to head into the Holidays on a two-game losing skid.

The Wolverines want to bounce back and win no doubt.

I don't know if BRLD was overlooking the Jaguars or what happened in that game, but I think it's safe to say it just wasn't the Wolverines' night and they didn't play their best game.

Regardless of what happened in that one though, all BRLD can do now is move past it and focus on the Indians.

A win over Ponca would be a monumental program win.

You can bet the Wolverines will want to avenge last year's defeats to the Indians, both in the State Semifinals and in the regular season.

No better time than Friday night to get the job done either.

BRLD has a huge opportunity in front of them, and a chance to play a great game.

The Wolverines have to turn in an impressive and outstanding performance.

BRLD takes on GACC at 3:45 p.m. next Friday in their first game of the Holiday Tournament at Howells-Dodge.

You can bet the Wolverines would like another shot at the Jaguars, and a win over the Indians would go a long ways in making that happen should the two teams meet in the Championship next Saturday.

Anyways, the task at hand is Ponca, and the game will be aired on the Bull after the Girls Game, which is slated to start at 6:00 p.m.

The BRLD Girls won 63-45 at Howells-Dodge Friday night before downing Boys Town 85-31 on the road Saturday, and winning 72-62 at home over Pender Tuesday night.

The Wolverines led the Jaguars 16-8 after one before Howells-Dodge won the 2nd quarter 12-11 to make it a 27-20 game at halftime in favor of BRLD.

The Wolverines outscored the Jaguars 18-8 in the 3rd quarter to go up 45-28 at the end of three.

BRLD won the 4th quarter 18-17.

The Wolverines led the Cowboys 27-4 after one, and outscored Boys Town 23-11 in the 2nd quarter to take a 50-15 lead into the locker room.

BRLD outscored the Cowboys 22-10 in the 3rd quarter to go up 72-25 at the end of three.

The Wolverines won the 4th quarter 13-6.

Dominant wins for BRLD on Friday and Saturday, and another nice win Tuesday night.

The Wolverines (6-1) host Ponca (5-2) Friday night in action that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Indians lost 55-47 at Crofton Tuesday night.

Very difficult matchup and game for BRLD.

The Wolverines lost their one close game this year, blowing an 11-point halftime lead at Clarkson/Leigh.

BRLD can definitely make amends for that game with a win Friday night though.

This game is big for the Wolverine program.

BRLD has beaten Ponca before and I think they can definitely do it again this year.

The Wolverines can score with the best of them, and that makes them a very good and dynamic team, in my opinion.

BRLD has to be up to the task of playing good defense on Friday though.

I felt the Wolverines gave up too many points to the Pendragons.

BRLD's defense has been dominant for the most part this season, but there have been times of struggle, at least recently, for the Wolverines on that end of the floor.

The Indians have a good offense and defense, and have shown a lot of balance and consistency on both ends of the floor, so BRLD has to be ready to match that.

The Wolverines have to get out in transition and run the floor.

Run, run, run....press, press, press...that's what BRLD needs to do.

The Wolverines have to try and make this game a track meet and get out in transition and do their thing that way.

The more BRLD can score the better off I think they will be.

The lower the score, the more I think it favors Ponca.

The Wolverines have to shoot the ball well and get to the free throw line and knock down free throws.

Using the backboard on and making layups will be important for BRLD too I feel.

Friday night's game can be heard on the Bull starting at 6:00 p.m.

GACC Boys 0-2, Girls 2-0 in last two games

The Guardian Angels Central Catholic Boys Basketball Team lost 64-29 at Ponca on Saturday before falling 51-45 at home to Oakland-Craig Tuesday night.

The Indians went up 28-2 after one, and outscored the Bluejays 15-10 in the 2nd quarter to take a 43-12 lead into the locker room.

Ponca doubled up GACC 18-9 in the 3rd quarter to extend their lead to 61-21 at the end of three.

The Bluejays won the 4th quarter 8-3.

Brendan Rief had 8 points while Jared Minnick totaled 7.

GACC went up 19-11 on the Knights after one before Oakland-Craig won the 2nd quarter 9-5 to make it a 24-20 game in favor of GACC heading into the locker room.

The Knights outscored the Bluejays 18-10 in the 3rd quarter to go up 38-34 at the end of three.

Oakland-Craig won the 4th quarter 13-11.

Minnick had 18 points and 10 rebounds, good enough for a double-double. Ben Ulrich had 11 points while Casey Doernemann notched 9.

Another close loss for GACC Tuesday night. The Bluejays are still learning how to win games.

GACC (1-6) travels to David City to take on Aquinas (1-4) Friday night.

The Monarchs lost 39-24 at home to Lincoln Lutheran on Saturday.

Aquinas has played some good, quality, and tough teams so far.

The Bluejays definitely have their work cut out for them in this one despite the teams having nearly the same record.

GACC has to learn how to finish and close out ball games.

The Bluejays have played a tough schedule and have a lot of close losses this year, but I feel this will only make GACC stronger down the line.

The Bluejays are going through their growing pains now, and I think that will only make them stronger towards the end of the season.

GACC has to go into David City expecting to win though.

The Bluejays have enough moral victories to last the whole season.

GACC needs another actual win to gain some momentum heading into the Holiday Tournament.

The Bluejays take on BRLD at 3:45 p.m. at Howells-Dodge next Friday, and that figures to be a very difficult matchup.

GACC needs to play well on Friday to give themselves a confidence boost heading into the game with the Wolverines.

The Bluejays have to find a way to get over the hump against the Monarchs, and get back on the winning track.

GACC has to be frustrated with all these close losses, and it's about time the Bluejays break out.

GACC has to go to Aquinas and put things all together for four quarters.

The Bluejays have to play unconscious like and be so in tune to the game that they're not even worried about time and score or anything like that.

GACC has to know situations on the clock and things of that nature, but just play the game worry and mistake free.

The execution has to be flawless for the Bluejays.

The GACC Girls won 58-55 at Norfolk Catholic on Saturday and defeated Wayne by the same score at home Monday night.

The Bluejays led the Knights 12-11 after one before Norfolk Catholic doubled up GACC 20-10 in the 2nd quarter to take a 31-22 lead into the locker room.

The Bluejays won the 3rd quarter 12-11 to make it a 42-34 game at the end of three.

GACC outscored the Knights 24-13 in the 4th quarter.

Brenna Rief led the way with 16 points while Sophia Hass notched 14 points and 7 rebounds. Marissa Hunke added 13 points while Maddie Bracht had 8 rebounds.

The Bluejays led the Blue Devils 15-5 after one before Wayne outscored GACC 22-16 in the 2nd quarter to make it a 31-27 game at halftime in favor of the Bluejays.

Wayne won the 3rd quarter 15-13 to make it a 44-42 game at the end of three in favor of GACC.

The Bluejays won the 4th quarter 14-13.

Hass had 18 points and 12 rebounds, good enough for a double-double. Greta Vering chipped in 13 points while Angela Jansen recorded 7 points and 7 rebounds.

Good wins for GACC as I thought the Bluejays did a great job battling back against the Knights and showed a lot of resiliency against the Blue Devils.

The Bluejays (8-1) take on David City Aquinas (3-2) on the road Friday night.

The Monarchs won 58-36 at home over Lincoln Lutheran on Saturday.

Aquinas is a solid team who has dominated in their wins and lost a couple of close games to good teams.

The Monarchs can't be taken lightly or for granted that's for sure.

GACC has to come out and play a great game from the start.

The Bluejays have to play the way they did against Wayne in the first quarter and at the end of the game against Norfolk Catholic.

I fully expect the Bluejays to come out and take care of business, but anything can happen.

GACC and Howells-Dodge meet in the first game of the Holiday Tournament at Howells-Dodge next Friday at 5:30 p.m., and I totally expect the Bluejays to have a fine and magnificent showing in that tournament also.

First things first though, GACC has to take care of business against Aquinas.

After the Aquinas game, the Girls should enjoy their time off and then be ready to get back after things following the five-day moratorium.

The Bluejays are having a mighty fine season, and should be very proud of what they've accomplished so far, but realize that the work is not done yet.

GACC has a lot of work left to do, but they are making very good progress so far.

The Bluejays are playing championship basketball and finding ways to win close games, both signs of a great team.

GACC has exceeded expectations in many ways so far this year I feel.

The thought was the Bluejays would struggle on offense, but that hasn't really been the case this year.

GACC is a great team and appears they will be right there when it comes to playing for and winning championships.

The Bluejays have to go into David City and leave town with a victory.

The ride home will be much more jolly if GACC wins than if they lose.

Winnebago Boys win at O'Neill; Girls lose

The Winnebago Boys Basketball Team won 67-53 at O'Neill Tuesday night.

The Eagles doubled up the Indians 16-8 in the 1st quarter before Winnebago outscored O'Neill 22-9 in the 2nd quarter to take a 30-25 lead into the locker room.

The Indians outscored the Eagles 18-7 in the 3rd quarter to go up 48-32 at the end of three.

O'Neill won the 4th quarter 21-19.

Big win for Winnebago no doubt about it.

The Indians (3-2) host Norfolk Catholic (2-4) Friday night.

The Knights won 41-34 at Boone Central/Newman Grove last Friday night.

Another opportunity and chance for Winnebago to add to their resume and pick up a big win.

The Indians have a big and tough game next Thursday in the first round of the Shootout on the Elkhorn, taking on Lutheran High Northeast at 4:15 p.m. at Wisner-Pilger.

Winnebago needs another big win to build for that game and tournament.

The Indians' two losses have been close losses to good and tough teams in Walthill and Omaha Nation.

I look for Winnebago to pick up a win Friday night, and head into the Holidays on a little 3-game winning streak.

I think the Indians are a team that's getting better with every game they play.

I think the win at O'Neill may be their most complete game of the season.

Winnebago has to come out fast and smack Norfolk Catholic in the mouth early on Friday night.

The Indians have to look to push the ball up and down the floor and dictate tempo, playing at the fast style they like.

Winnebago has to create turnovers with their press and convert their chances into easy lay ups.

The Indians have to be alert and know certain situations.

Winnebago has to be mentally focused and in tune to the game.

The Indians have to have a strong will to win and must be hungry for a victory.

Winnebago has to play hard and leave it all out on the floor and exert every ounce of energy in their bodies.

The Indians should be totally gassed and have nothing left after this one.

And with the five-day moratorium coming up after this game Winnebago can afford to exert themselves to the max as they can rest and heal their bodies prior to the Holiday Tournament.

The Indians have to put things all together one more time before Christmas, and leave no doubt in this one.

The Winnebago Girls lost 56-47 at O'Neill Tuesday night.

The Indians held a 9-7 lead after one before the Eagles outscored Winnebago 21-10 in the 2nd quarter to go in front 28-19 at halftime.

The Indians won the 3rd quarter 16-13 to make it a 41-35 game at the end of three.

O'Neill won the 4th quarter 15-12.

Jayla Price had 17 points while Keisha Snyder was also in double figures with 10. Kae Earth added 8 points while Natasha Deal pulled down 7 rebounds.

Good strong effort all the way around from Winnebago.

The Indians (2-4) host Norfolk Catholic (2-5) Friday night.

The Knights lost 58-55 at home to Guardian Angels Central Catholic on Saturday.

Norfolk Catholic is a decent team despite their record.

The Knights have lost to some good teams.

The Indians are definitely going to need to play very well to come away with the win in this one.

Winnebago has to play lights out and get out to a big lead.

The Indians have to play inspired and must build off the things they did well Tuesday night.

This is an opportunity to knock off a tradition rich school, and get your name out there.

A win over Norfolk Catholic would definitely help the Winnebago Girls get some notoriety there's no doubt about that.

It can happen too all the Indians have to do is play well and believe.

Winnebago has to come out and play their best game of the season to come out on top.

The Indians have another great opportunity in front of them next Thursday against Lutheran High Northeast at 2:30 p.m. in the Shootout on the Elkhorn Holiday Tournament at Wisner-Pilger so a chance to pick up back-to-back wins over Norfolk schools.

Perhaps wins over the Knights and Eagles could really help kick start things for Winnebago.

I feel the Indians have done some nice things this season and played most of their opponents respectable, it's just a matter of figuring out a way to win these games.

I think a win Friday night could go a long ways in dictating how next Thursday is going to go.

Win or lose Friday though Winnebago should be confident heading into the Holiday Tournament knowing how close they've been to breaking through this year.

The Indians need to play good on Friday and then enjoy the time off with their families for Christmas and then be ready to get back at it next Thursday after the five-day moratorium ends.

Winnebago needs everyone to play their best basketball on Friday and must get a great effort from all.

Wisner-Pilger Boys 2-1 in last three games; Girls 0-3 in same stretch

The Wisner-Pilger Boys Basketball Team won 58-50 at Oakland-Craig Thursday night in action heard on 107.9 the Bull before falling 60-38 at home to Wayne Friday night, and then winning 63-47 at Arlington Tuesday night.

The Gators jumped out to a 17-6 lead on the Knights at the end of one. Both teams scored 16 points in the 2nd quarter, and the score was 33-22 at halftime in favor of Wisner-Pilger.

The Gators won the 3rd quarter 9-7 to go up 42-29 at the end of three.

Oakland-Craig outscored Wisner-Pilger 21-16 in the 4th quarter.

Wisner-Pilger Head Coach Duane Mendlik on the win. "We handled their pressure just well enough in order to just do some things. We knew they were going to come in and really put the pressure on the in the full court situation. And we worked quite a bit on that. And for the most part I thought we did a pretty good job until late in the game when we had some of our subs in there. That was a main key I thought to try and get out and get some things going, and we shot the ball relatively well, so that really made a difference."

The Gators were led in scoring by Caden Jackson, who had a game-high 17 points. S&W Welding Player of the Game Dylan Kneifl added 15 while Cole Jacobsen added 11, all in the second half. Colby Heller chipped in 9.

The Blue Devils got up 17-5 after one before the Gators won the 2nd quarter 16-12 to make it a 29-21 ball game at halftime.

Wayne outscored Wisner-Pilger 17-3 in the 3rd quarter to go up 46-24 at the end of three.

Both teams scored 14 points in the 4th quarter.

The Eagles got up on the Gators 17-7 at the end of one before Wisner-Pilger won the 2nd quarter 18-12 to make it a 29-25 game at halftime.

The Gators won the 3rd quarter 16-11 to go up 41-40 at the end of three.

Wisner-Pilger blew the game wide open in the 4th quarter, outscoring Arlington 22-7.

Up and down basketball over the course of the last three games for the Gators you could say.

Wisner-Pilger (4-2) hosts Stanton (1-6) Thursday night.

The Mustangs lost 70-51 at home to Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family Tuesday night.

The Gators need to get off to the same type of start they got off to against Oakland-Craig.

If Stanton jumps on Wisner-Pilger the way Wayne and Arlington did it could prove to be costly.

The Gators should win, but it's a rivalry game and anything can happen.

The Mustangs have played well at times this year they've just had a difficult schedule.

Wisner-Pilger should matchup pretty well with Stanton's big guys inside in Sam Bates and Nathan Arens, and should have an advantage at the guard position.

I feel guard play will be the biggest difference in this one.

Depth could play a role in this one as well.

The Gators have to come out and shoot lights out and create a lot of turnovers with their press the way they did against Oakland-Craig.

Wisner-Pilger has to play with the same kind of focus, determination, intensity, and toughness they played with in that one as well.

Kneifl has to tear things up and Jackson has to do big things as well.

Jayden Raabe and Caden Schweers have to hold their own on the inside also.

The Gators have to play tough, physical, and tenacious.

Wisner-Pilger has to try and push tempo and make Stanton play fast.

If the Gators can get the Mustangs flustered and all out of sorts then it will be to their advantage.

A slow paced, half court game definitely favors Stanton.

A fast up and down game is definitely what Wisner-Pilger wants.

The Gators have the Shootout on the Elkhorn Holiday Tournament next week, and take on Battle Creek at 7:45 p.m. next Thursday in the first game.

Wisner-Pilger could definitely use a win on their home court Thursday night to set the stage and tone for the tournament.

The Wisner-Pilger Girls lost 54-37 at Oakland-Craig Thursday night in action heard on 107.9 the Bull before falling 50-44 at home to Wayne Friday night, and 59-37 at Arlington Tuesday night.

Oakland-Craig went on a 12-0 run to go up 16-4 after the game was tied at 4 in the early going.

The Knights led 22-6 after one, and won the 2nd quarter 14-9 to take a 36-15 lead into the locker room.

Oakland-Craig, who led by as many as 25 at one point in both the 1st and 2nd halfs, won the 3rd quarter 12-8 to lead 48-23 at the end of three.

The Gators outscored the Knights 14-6 in the 4th quarter.

Jordan Wegner had 10 points to pace the Gators, 9 coming in the 2nd half. Reagan Scholting added 8.

The Gators and Blue Devils were tied at 14 after one before Wayne won the 2nd quarter 12-9 to take a 26-23 lead into the locker room.

The Blue Devils outscored the Gators 8-1 in the 3rd quarter to extend their lead to 34-24 at the end of three.

Wisner-Pilger outscored Wayne 20-16 in the 4th quarter.

The Eagles got out to a 19-10 lead on the Gators at the end of one. Arlington outscored Wisner-Pilger 17-5 in the 2nd quarter to take a 36-15 lead into the locker room.

The Eagles outscored the Gators 16-3 in the 3rd quarter to go up 52-18 at the end of three.

Wisner-Pilger outscored Arlington 19-7 in the 4th quarter.

The Gators have shown flashes of great play, but ultimately scoring droughts and inconsistent play has hurt Wisner-Pilger.

The Gators (1-5) host Stanton (4-3) Thursday night.

The Mustangs are coming off a 63-42 loss at home to Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family Tuesday night.

This game could actually be closer than most would of thought at the beginning of the season.

Reason being Stanton has been sort of inconsistent, and if the Gators play the way they did against Wayne then I don't think a win is out of the realm of possibility.

It all comes down to scoring though, in my opinion.

I feel Wisner-Pilger is good enough defensively to beat anyone, but offense is where they really struggle.

The Gators have to get the ball inside to Wegner and let her go to work, and get contributions from others too.

Wisner-Pilger has to work the ball around for good shots and open lay ups and must convert their scoring chances.

The Gators have to be confident shooting the ball too.

Perhaps if Wisner-Pilger sees the ball go in the hoop a couple of times on Thursday it will lead to a big night.

Anything can happen, just look at the Howells-Dodge/BRLD Boys Game.

It's a rivalry game too, and all the more reason for the Gators to be optimistic.

Wisner-Pilger has a really tough and challenging first game in the Shootout on the Elkhorn Holiday Tournament in Wisner next Thursday, taking on undefeated Battle Creek at 6:00 p.m., so the Gators could really use a big win over the Mustangs heading into that one.

Wisner-Pilger has to keep building confidence, and I think they started to do that in the second half of the Oakland-Craig game and against Wayne, but for whatever reason didn't carry things over to the Arlington game.

The Gators have to come out hot and start fast against Stanton, and must make the Mustangs uncomfortable and force them to play from behind.

Stanton isn't really built to comeback from large deficits so if Wisner-Pilger can get a double digit lead they could be golden.

Stanton Boys 0-3 in last three games; Girls 2-1 in same stretch

The Stanton Boys Basketball Team lost 40-28 at Wakefield Friday night, 49-48 at home to Pender on Saturday, and 70-51 at home to Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family Tuesday night.

The Trojans led 14-2 after one and outscored the Mustangs 13-7 in the 2nd quarter to take a 27-9 lead into the locker room.

Wakefield doubled up Stanton 4-2 in the 3rd quarter to go up 31-11 at the end of three.

The Mustangs outscored the Trojans 17-9 in the 4th quarter.

Marcus Spotanski had 16 points while TJ Larson notched 8.

The Pendragons built an 8-6 lead after one, and won the 2nd quarter 13-12 to go up 21-18 at halftime.

Stanton outscored Pender 15-13 in the 3rd quarter to make it a 34-33 game at the end of three in favor of the Pendragons.

Both teams scored 15 points in the 4th quarter.

Larsen had 19 points while Spotanski totaled 13. Nathan Arens pulled down 10 rebounds while Sam Bates ripped down 9.

The Mustangs got out to an 18-8 lead on the Bulldogs after one before Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family outscored Stanton 21-11 in the 2nd quarter to tie the game at 29 at halftime.

The Bulldogs outscored the Mustangs 26-6 in the 3rd quarter to lead 55-35 at the end of three.

Stanton won the 4th quarter 16-15.

Spotanski led the way with 14 points while Larson had 13 points and 7 rebounds. Parker Krusemark added 10 points while Bates notched 8.

I thought the Mustangs did some nice things on Tuesday, getting a lot of kids involved in scoring and smacking the Bulldogs in the mouth at the start of the game.

Stanton (1-6) takes on Wisner-Pilger (4-2) on the road Thursday night.

The Gators are coming off a 63-47 win at Arlington Tuesday night.

You can throw records out the window when these two get together.

It's an intense and heated rivalry no doubt, and I'm sure the Mustangs won't have much trouble getting up for Wisner-Pilger.

I look for Stanton to play well and build off the things they did well Tuesday night.

The Mustangs need to start the way they did against the Bulldogs and survive the middle quarters.

Stanton has to try and slow down Dylan Kneifl, who did a number on Oakland-Craig on the Bull Thursday night.

The Mustangs have to get fired up and must be intense when they take the court.

Stanton has to D it up and be efficient offensively again the way they were against the Bulldogs.

The Gators have been pretty consistent this year, but Wisner-Pilger had an off game against Wayne on Friday, so if that happens again look out for the Mustangs.

Anything can happen in this game and Stanton has to play to win.

The Mustangs have to take out their frustrations of losing out on Wisner-Pilger.

Stanton has a very winnable game coming up next Thursday in their Holiday Tournament at home against O'Neill at 7:15 p.m. so if the Mustangs can get this one against the Gators that would give them lots of confidence and momentum heading into the Holiday Break I'm sure.

Stanton has to play to and expect to win.

The Mustangs can't accept losing, they have to do everything in their power to right the ship and win.

I thought Stanton did some nice things Tuesday night, and if they can build on what they did offensively and pick things up defensively and play a complete game then it could yield a win.

The Mustangs won't need much to get up for this one on Thursday.

This is the type of game you dream about playing in as a kid growing up in Stanton.

I look for the Mustangs to play with lots of intensity and passion, things you would see on display during any rivalry game.

The Stanton Girls won 51-35 at Wakefield-Allen Friday night, and 59-30 at home over Pender on Saturday, before falling 63-42 at home to Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family Tuesday night.

The Mustangs led the Trojans 18-8 after one before Wakefield-Allen doubled up Stanton 14-7 in the 2nd quarter to make it a 25-22 game at halftime in favor of the Mustangs.

Stanton won the 3rd quarter 9-7 to go up 34-29 at the end of three.

The Mustangs outscored the Trojans 17-6 in the 4th quarter.

Bree Burtwhistle had 16 points while freshman Sylvia Cunningham notched a double-double of 14 points and 10 rebounds. Jessie Brandl had 7 points and 8 rebounds while Jaiden Hartl totaled 7 rebounds.

The Mustangs doubled up the Pendragons 20-10 in the 1st quarter and outscored Pender 11-5 in the 2nd quarter to lead 31-18 at halftime.

Stanton outscored the Pendragons 15-6 in the 3rd quarter to lead 46-24 at the end of three.

The Mustangs won the 4th quarter 13-9.

Liz Christensen finished with 20 points while Hartl totaled 14. Brandl had 8 points and 11 rebounds while Burtwhistle chipped in 8 points.

The Bulldogs jumped on Stanton 13-2 after one, and outscored the Mustangs 20-13 in the 2nd quarter to take a 33-15 lead into the locker room.

Stanton won the 3rd quarter 12-11 to make it a 44-27 game at the end of three.

Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family won the 4th quarter 19-15.

Brandl led the way with 18 points and 9 rebounds while Hartl totaled 9 points.

Good wins for the Mustangs on Friday and Saturday, but definitely not the outcome Stanton was hoping for Tuesday night.

The Mustangs (4-3) take on Wisner-Pilger (1-5) on the road Thursday night.

The Gators lost 59-37 at Arlington Tuesday night.

Wisner-Pilger has been a little up and down this year, but you can bet the Gators will be ready to go and be chomping at the bit Thursday night.

Stanton has to come out and play well, the way they played on Saturday.

If things go the way they did on Tuesday for the Mustangs then they could be in trouble Thursday night.

It's a rivalry game and anything can happen so Stanton has to be ready to go.

The Mustangs have to play with a sense of purpose and urgency, a pep to their step if you may.

Stanton has yet to play their best basketball of the season, and I'm waiting for it to happen.

The Mustangs need to play well in order to prepare for next Thursday and next Friday's Stanton Holiday Tournament.

The Mustangs take on O'Neill at 5:30 p.m. next Thursday so Stanton definitely has their work cut out for them in that one, and then whoever they play the next day/night will be tough too with West Holt and Hartington-Newcastle on the other side of the bracket.

So I guess what I'm saying is Stanton could really use a win heading into the Holiday Break.

5-3 would feel much better than 4-4 heading into the five-day moratorium, especially given the fact Thursday's game is a rivalry game against Wisner-Pilger.

The game against the Gators is a must win for Stanton.

The Mustangs simply cannot afford to drop it.

You can bet Stanton will get Wisner-Pilger's best shot though so the Mustangs have to be ready.

Stanton has to try and slow down Jordan Wegner, and must press the Gators to death and play suffocating defense.

The Mustangs have to come out and play with authority, and take it to Wisner-Pilger for four quarters.

Stanton must also be aggressive offensively.

Pender boys beat Stanton; Girls 0-3 in last three games

The Pender Boys Basketball Team edged Stanton 49-48 on the road Saturday.

The Pendragons built an 8-6 lead after one, and won the 2nd quarter 13-12 to go up 21-18 at halftime.

Stanton outscored Pender 15-13 in the 3rd quarter to make it a 34-33 game at the end of three in favor of the Pendragons.

Both teams scored 15 points in the 4th quarter.

Eric Schopke totaled 23 points while Sam Mailoux had 13 points and 9 rebounds. Chris Rutar added 9 points.

Close, narrow win for Pender, but I'm sure the Pendragons will take it.

Pender (3-3) hosts Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family (5-0) Thursday night in action that will be aired on 107.9 the Bull.

The Bulldogs won 70-51 at Stanton Tuesday night.

The Pendragons definitely have their work cut out for them in this one, but a win is a definite possibility for Pender I would say.

The Pendragons have played just about everyone tough and close, and I look for Pender to do that again Thursday night.

Schopke, Mailoux, and Rutar need to have big games for the Pendragons and must get help from their teammates.

Pender could use more balanced scoring offensively to compliment their solid defense.

The Pendragons are at their best when they can keep opponents at bay and hold them to under 50 points.

Pender has done that in each of their wins this year while the Pendragons have given up over 50 in each of their losses.

This game is a huge challenge and opportunity for Pender, and I look for the Pendragons to play hard and well.

I think Pender will challenge Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family and play them tough.

So far the Pendragons have come up short against the tough teams and have been unable to get over the hump.

Will that continue Thursday night or will Pender get over the hump? I think the Pendragons can do it, but it won't be easy.

Anytime you have great players like Mailoux, Schopke, Rutar, and others though you have a chance.

Pender is a good and solid team, but has lost the close games this year whereas the Bulldogs won their one close game and have been money in all others.

The Pendragons definitely have a tall task in front of them, but can definitely win as anything can happen,.

Pender just has to play with confidence and believe that they can win.

The game will tip-off on the Bull after the Girls Game, which is scheduled to begin at 6:00 p.m.

The Pender Girls are winless in their last three contests, falling 51-29 at home to North Bend Central Friday night, 59-30 at Stanton on Saturday, and 72-62 at BRLD Tuesday night.

The Tigers jumped on the Pendragons 16-5 after one. Pender won the 2nd quarter 13-11 to make it a 27-18 game at halftime.

North Bend Central outscored the Pendragons 24-11 in the second half.

Caitlyn Heise paced Pender with 10 points.

The Mustangs doubled up the Pendragons 20-10 in the 1st quarter and outscored Pender 11-5 in the 2nd quarter to lead 31-18 at halftime.

Stanton outscored the Pendragons 15-6 in the 3rd quarter to lead 46-24 at the end of three.

The Mustangs won the 4th quarter 13-9.

Ashley Ostrand had 7 points while Heise notched 8 rebounds.

Tough stretch of games for Pender although I thought the Pendragons played better on Tuesday than they did on Friday or Saturday.

The Pendragons (3-4) host Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family (5-1) Thursday night in action that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Bulldogs routed Stanton 63-42 on the road Tuesday night.

I think Pender is definitely capable of competing with Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family and giving them a game.

The Pendragons made things close with the Wolverines, and I think the same thing can happen Thursday night.

Pender is going to need to play better defense than they have if they want to pull off the upset though.

If the Pendragons can score over 50 and hold Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family to under 50 then they should be golden.

It's a tall task, but it can be done.

This would be a huge win for Pender heading into the Holiday Break if they can get it.

The Pendragons face Arlington at 4:00 p.m. next Thursday in the Great Northeast Nebraska Shootout at Wayne State while the boys face the Eagles right after that at 5:30 p.m.

Pender no doubt wants to finish the pre-Holiday Schedule off strong, and a win over the Bulldogs would accomplish just that.

The Pendragons have to come out fired up, tenacious, aggressive, and smart.

Pender has to play with lots of emotion and intensity, passion, pride, desire, and physical and mental toughness.

The Pendragons have to build off what they did offensively against BRLD and continue their prowess on that side of the court on Thursday.

Pender is going to need to play a great game to knock off Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family, but it can be done....just look at what the Howells-Dodge Boys did to BRLD.

Anything can happen on any given night, and the Pendragons have to be optimistic heading into this one.

It should be a fun night of basketball on the Bull beginning with the girls game between Pender and Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family at 6:00 p.m. and the boys game to follow from Pender.