BRLD Boys complete undefeated State Championship Season

The BRLD Boys Basketball Team capped off a 29-0 perfect season, and won back-to-back State Championships after defeating Grand Island Central Catholic 61-47 in the Class C-2 State Championship Game at Pinnacle Bank Arena Saturday night in action aired on 107.9 the Bull.

The Wolverines opened up the State tournament with a 71-46 thrashing of Doniphan-Trumbull in the first round at Lincoln Southeast Thursday night in action also aired on the Bull.

The teams exchanged buckets early and often, with Doniphan-Trumbull leading 12-11 at one point. BRLD closed the first quarter on a 9-0 run to lead 20-12 after the first quarter.

The Wolverines extended that into a 15-0 run early in the second period, and then went on a separate 9-0 run, taking a 42-19 lead into halftime.

After outscoring the Cardinals 16-5 in the third quarter, BRLD slowed the pace in the fourth quarter, cruising to the victory.

Lucas Vogt led four BRLD players in double figures with 19 points. Dylan Beutler added 16, Jaxon Johnson scored 12 points and had 10 rebounds, good enough for a double-double, and Darwin Snyder had 10 points.


The Wolverines defeated Sutton 59-51 in overtime in the semifinals Friday night at the Devaney Center, in another game aired on the Bull.

BRLD went on a short run to start the game, before Sutton tied things up at 7-7. But the Wolverines held a 11-9 lead after the first quarter.

Sutton played a strong second quarter, and was leading 25-21 late, when BRLD’s Lucas Vogt hit a three pointer as time expired, sending the game into halftime with Sutton leading 25-21.

Vogt opened the third quarter by scoring eight unanswered points for BRLD, who jumped out to a 32-25 lead. The Wolverines hit four three pointers in the period, and held a 41-37 advantage heading into the fourth.

BRLD was held to just five points in the fourth quarter, and the Mustangs came back to tie the game at 46-46, sending things into overtime.

The Wolverines opened the extra period on a 6-0 run, and went on to dominate, outscoring Sutton 13-5, and winning the game 59-51.

Vogt eclipsed the 1,000 point mark in his career, as he led the Wolverines with 26 points. Snyder added 12 points. Beutler chipped in 8 points and 7 rebounds while Johnson totaled 7 points and 9 rebounds.


Against the Crusaders, the game was never really in doubt with the Wolverines leading 18-7 at the end of the 1st quarter, and outscoring GICC 13-6 in the 2nd quarter to take a commanding 31-13 lead into the locker room.

The Crusaders won the 3rd quarter 13-12 to make it a 43-26 game at the end of three.

GICC won the 4th quarter 21-18.

Beutler and Vogt each scored 16 points for the Wolverines, with Gatzemeyer adding 12.

BRLD pushes its overall win streak to 52 games.

What a magnificent and amazing year for the Wolverines, who finish the season undefeated.

The best team in the local immediate area hands down and one of the top teams in the State regardless of class and one of the best teams/dynasties in Nebraska High School Boys Basketball History.

Head Coach Cory Meyer says Sutton almost spoiled the party. "Yeah Sutton they gave us their best, and we definitely had to earn that game, and thankfully we were able to do that. And yeah it definitely did wake us up a little bit cause we did come out flat and just didn't play real focused."

Meyer adds the starting five played really well against GICC. "I was pleased with the way they played. Lucas again had a good game. Will was able to play with his knee injury. And Darwin was able to hit some shots. And Dylan was able to hit some shots and play big. And Jaxon was able to play big inside."

Meyer says they really challenged their bigs inside, saying they were going to have to have a really good game for the team to win.

Meyer feels bad and thankful at the same time given the circumstances that the tournament was held. "It was very quiet. There were times where you just couldn't hear anything. And I feel terrible for those, the fans, and other family members that weren't able to go. Cause we've had a great following. And I'm so thankful for that. I feel bad for them, but on the other hand I was so thankful that the NSAA allowed us to play. And just to prove again that we were part of the best in C-2."

Meyer shares his favorite memory from the team's magnificent run this year. "It was putting that medal around Arizona Riecken's neck. He just got cleared to be able to do activities cause he had cancer. He got cancer the summer going into his freshman year. And he's battled it ever since and finally got cleared to play. And he's a good ball player, and he's missed out on so much. And being able to put that around his neck...that was probably my favorite memory right there. And that was a goal of mine since the beginning of the year knowing that he was going to be able to play. And I'll never forget that."

That's an incredible memory and story right there, that's for sure.

BRLD says goodbye to Snyder, Johnson, Gatzemeyer, Braxton Bargmann, Brayden Anderson, Riecken, and Devin Hegge. "We'll graduate seven seniors. They're a very huge core of our team. And next year we're just going to have to have kids step up and fill some shoes," Meyer said.

Key returners for next year include Vogt, Beutler, Micah Henschen, and Derek Petersen.

It will be interesting to see what happens with the Wolverines next year, but I'm sure it will be a little while before BRLD worries about next season.

Congrats to the champs!!!!!! BRLD Wolverines, back-to-back undefeated State Champs!!!!! Yeah baby!!!!!

BRLD Boys top Twin River in Sub-State to qualify for State

The BRLD Boys ran their winning streak to 49 games by beating Twin River 82-52 in the C2-2 Sub-State final from Norfolk Catholic last Monday night.

The Wolverines jumped out to a 19-7 lead at the end of one, and outscored the Titans 24-11 in the 2nd quarter to take a 43-18 lead into the locker room.

BRLD won the 3rd quarter 21-18 to increase their advantage to 64-36 at the end of three.

The Wolverines won the 4th quarter 18-16.

Lucas Vogt led the Wolverines with 31 points while Dylan Beutler had a double-double of 20 points and 11 rebounds. Jaxon Johnson added a double-double of 12 points and 10 rebounds while Darwin Snyder had 7 points.

Head Coach Cory Meyer says his team did things well on both ends of the court. "Against Twin River I felt we moved the ball well against their zone. Second half we did a better job matching up and getting back on defense."

Meyer says Vogt, Beutler, and Johnson all had great games. "Lucas does a great job getting the hot hand on the ball. That night it happened to be Jaxon and Dylan. Lucas ended up w/ 6 assists on the night. Will (Gatzemeyer) wasn't far behind w/ 5. Dylan was due and shot well inside and outside the arc. Jaxon did a good job finishing under the hoop."

BRLD is now 26-0 and advances to this week's State Tournament where they will play Doniphan-Trumbull (20-5) in the 2 and 7 seed game at Lincoln Southeast at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday in action that will be aired on 107.9 the Bull.

The Cardinals defeated Bridgeport 48-36 in the C2-7 District Final from Maxwell last Monday night.

Doniphan-Trumbull has been blown out by teams comparable in talent to BRLD.

Meyer says he really likes how the team matches up with the Cardinals. "Doniphan-Trumbull is a team that is very similar to Twin River. They will look to run w/ it and run a very similar spread offense that looks for driving lanes and kick outs for 3's. I do like the matchup and feel we matchup well with them."

I feel the State Championship is going to come down to BRLD and GICC or BRLD and Yutan.

I think the Wolverines will be fine in the first round and should beat either Sutton or Centennial in the Semifinals, although I feel things would be closer than Thursday's game if it were to be the Mustangs.

Things would be interesting on Saturday if BRLD matched up with GICC, in my opinion.

I think that would be a great game.

Hopefully the Wolverines can go out there and repeat as State Champions.

To go 29-0 and win back-to-back State Titles would be absolutely incredible and amazing.

Meyer says he likes the way his team has approached every game so far this year. "I like our team's confidence. We haven't overlooked anyone yet and don't plan on starting anytime soon. Our experience in big games will definitely help us going into the state tournament."

I think BRLD's experience in big games would help them against perhaps GICC in Saturday's State Title game.

That would be a great final it if happened.

Unfortunately, unless you are an immediate family member you won't be able to attend the State Tournament due to Coronavirus.

Hopefully the Wolverines can make it back-to-back State Championships and a 52-game winning streak heading into next season.

BRLD can definitely do it, but it might be tougher than last year.

Friday night's Semifinal would be at 8:45 p.m. on the Bull and Saturday's State Championship Game would start at 8:30.

All BRLD State games will be broadcast on the Bull.

North Bend Central Girls Win C-1 State Title

The North Bend Central Girls Basketball Team won the C-1 State Championship over the weekend, defeating West Point-Beemer 48-33 in the first round at the Devaney Center on Thursday before downing Adams Central 39-31 in the Semifinals at Pinnacle Bank Arena Friday morning, and then dominating Lincoln Christian on the boards and winning 48-32 in Saturday's State Championship game at PBA. All three NBC State Tournament games were broadcast on 107.9 the Bull.

Against the Cadets, the Tigers got up 13-6 at the end of one, and won the 2nd quarter 7-5 to take a 20-11 lead into the locker room.

NBC outscored the Cadets 19-9 in the 3rd quarter, and led 39-20 at the end of three.

West Point-Beemer won the 4th quarter 13-9.

Kaitlyn Emanuel led the way with 12 points while Sydney Emanuel notched 10.


The Tigers led the Patriots 11-6 at the end of one and won the 2nd quarter 12-10 to take a 23-16 lead into the locker room.

Adams Central won the 3rd quarter 9-5 to make it a 28-25 game at the end of three.

NBC outscored the Patriots 11-6 in the 4th quarter.

Sydney Emanuel had a game-high 13 points while Kaitlyn Emanuel posted 8. Lauren Emanuel and Megan Ortmeier totaled 7 points apiece.


The old adage that defense wins championship was certainly true for the North Bend Central Tigers on Saturday.

The Tigers held the Crusaders to just 36.1 percent shooting, including forcing them to go 2-15 from three point range. NBC also out-rebounded Lincoln Christian 38-21, including 19 offensive rebounds.

North Bend Central closed the first quarter on a small scoring run, leading 13-7.

The Tigers then added 15 points in the second quarter, and took a 28-17 lead into halftime.

Another strong period saw the Tigers outscore the Crusaders in the third, 14-9, allowing NBC to slow down pace of play and run clock in the fourth.

Both teams scored just six points in the fourth quarter, but that was all NBC would need, preserving the victory.

Sydney Emanuel scored 12 points to lead NBC, including a 6-7 performance at the free throw line. Lauren Emanuel and Kaitlyn Emanuel each had 8 points for the Tigers.

Head Coach Aaron Sterup says the team really stressed rebounding. "We had a couple of goals, and one of them was to keep them off the glass. We thought if we could hold them to one shot, make it a tough shot, and hold them to one shot each time that we'd have a good shot."

Sterup says his team really controlled things on the glass, especially in the 1st half.

He adds the team had to be aggressive on offense, and attack the Crusaders' zone.

Sterup says having multiple scorers also helped his team win. "Our biggest strength is our balance. Unlike a lot of teams you can't guard one or two of our girls and be very successful because we've got other people that can score."

The Tigers also dominated the stat categories of second chance points, bench points, fast break points and points in the paint.

This is the third overall state championship for North Bend Central, with their previous two titles coming in Class C1 in 1999 and 2001.

The Tigers finish their 2019/2020 campaign at 27-2, and as the champions of Class C1.

Congratulations North Bend Central, what an absolutely amazing accomplishment!!!!

Of course this State Championship would have never happened had the Tigers not erased a 5-point deficit with 10 seconds left against Norfolk Catholic in Sub-State.

Sterup says his team made the most of their opportunity. "We came into this knowing that we were very fortunate. We were a whisper away from not being here. And so we told them you kind of gotten a gift here, it's really your job to go down there and do something with it." 

Sterup says the girls being relentless for 3 days was a big reason why the Tigers were as successful as they were this past weekend.

He adds the team played a lot more loose at state compared to other postseason games where it was one and done where his team played tight and tentative.

Either way NBC has another State Championship under their belt and Coach Sterup has his first State Championship as Head Coach of the Tigers.

This has to be an absolutely awesome and surreal feeling for NBC, who is no doubt ecstatic about what they accomplished.

Ortmeier, Lauren Emanuel, and Abby Post are the three seniors from this team lost to graduation.

What a very fitting way for them to end their High School Careers.

Plenty of talent returns for North Bend Central next year though, including Hannah Williams, Ally Pojar, Cierra Kluthe, Sydney Emanuel, and Kaitlyn Emanuel.

I think the Tigers have a great chance to be back at State next year with an opportunity to defend their State Title.

North Bend Central brings back a lot of great players next year, and should be strong once again next season.

The Tigers have to work hard once again in the offseason, and try and go for another State Championship next year.

Oakland-Craig Girls finish 4th at State

The Oakland-Craig Girls Basketball Team took 4th at State over the weekend, knocking off Clarkson/Leigh 41-36 in the first round at Lincoln North Star Thursday afternoon in action aired on 107.9 the Bull before getting upset 53-44 by Ponca in the State Semifinals Friday night at the Devaney Center in action also aired on the Bull, and then losing 58-40 to Crofton in the 3rd place game at Lincoln East on Saturday.

The Knights jumped out to an 11-7 lead on the Patriots after one, and won the 2nd quarter 9-8 to take a 20-15 lead into the locker room.

Oakland-Craig outscored the Patriots 13-7 in the 3rd quarter to extend their lead to 33-22 at the end of three.

Clarkson/Leigh outscored the Knights 14-8 in the 4th quarter.

Kennedy Benne had 18 points and 7 rebounds while Sadie Nelson added 12 points, and Chaney Nelson notched 8.


The Indians got out to an 11-8 lead at the end of one on Oakland-Craig. The Knights outscored Ponca 17-12 in the 2nd quarter to take a 25-23 lead into the locker room.

The Indians won the 3rd quarter 12-7 to regain the lead at 35-32 at the end of three.

Ponca outscored Oakland-Craig 18-12 in the 4th quarter.

Benne led the way with 20 points while Makenna Peason scored 9.


The Warriors jumped out to a 20-8 lead at the end of one, and outscored the Knights 15-9 in the 2nd quarter to take a 35-17 lead into the locker room.

Oakland-Craig won the 3rd quarter 11-9 to make it a 44-28 game at the end of three.

Crofton won the 4th quarter 14-12.

Benne had 9 points while Sydney Guzinski notched 8. Chaney Nelson and Jeannina Blahak added 7 each.

Tough loss in the Semifinals on Friday to the Indians.

The Knights wrap up their spectacular year at 26-3.

It wasn't the storybook ending to the season that Oakland-Craig was looking for.

The Knights came up one win short of reaching the State Championship and having a chance to win State.

I will be honest I thought it would be Oakland-Craig vs. Crofton for the State Championship, not the other way around.

Just goes to show anything can happen when a particular team or teams are on at State.

State is a whole different ball game once teams get there, and honestly anyone can be beat in any given round.

So while I'm sure the Knights are disappointed they didn't make it to Championship Saturday, they still had a tremendous season nonetheless.

Benne led the team in scoring with 592 points on the season and 171 rebounds.

Benne and Mya Guzinski are the only two players lost to graduation.

Lots returns for Oakland-Craig next year, including Chaney Nelson, Sydney Guzinski, Edie Anderson, Sadie Nelson, Pearson, and Blahak.

So the Knights should have a lot of promise and another opportunity to qualify for State once again next season.

Benne is a huge loss though as she heads off to Briar Cliff.

I think losing her will be a similar type loss Oakland-Craig felt last year when Dacey Nelson graduated.

That's two absolutely incredible players gone from your program in consecutive years.

The good news though is there is a lot of talent returning next year.

The Knights can definitely be a State qualifying team and force to be reckoned with next season, in my opinion.

BRLD Girls lose to Crofton at State

The BRLD Girls Basketball Team fell 72-41 to Crofton in the first round of State at Lincoln North Star in action aired on 107.9 the Bull Thursday night.

The Warriors got up 19-2 at the end of one, and won the 2nd quarter 20-18 to take a 39-20 lead into the locker room.

Crofton won the 3rd quarter 19-14 to go up 58-34 at the end of three.

The Warriors doubled up the Wolverines 14-7 in the 4th quarter.

Jordan Snyder led the way with 15 points while Isabel Freemont scored 12.

I think BRLD is one of those feel good stories this year in qualifying for State.

The Wolverines wrap up the campaign with a 20-6 record.

BRLD did some very nice things this year, and played an amazing first half of the season.

I think the Wolverines' entire body of work is what allowed them to qualify for State this year.

BRLD loses Kailynn Lovejoy and Kelsey Larsen to graduation next year.

Two seniors who will be sorely missed for sure, but the Wolverines have to be very excited for next year given who all they bring back.

BRLD welcomes back Freemont, Aubrey Berg, Audra Nolting, Megan Beutler, Caragan Tietz, Alyssa Buchholz, Emma Beutler, and Snyder next year.

That's a lot of talent returning for the Wolverines.

I think BRLD has to continue to get better on the defensive end of the floor.

I think defense is what allowed the Wolverines to qualify for State this year, and BRLD was at their best defensively the first half of the season.

I feel like the Wolverines kind of tapered off on defense after the Oakland-Craig game though and so I think defensive consistency is something BRLD should work on for next year.

The Wolverines have to continue to be polished offensively as well though.

I think BRLD has an excellent chance to get back to State and do something again next season.

It won't be easy to get back, but the Wolverines can definitely do it there's no doubt about that.

BRLD has to work extremely hard once again this offseason, and gear up and get ready for next season.

Of course a lot of these girls are in Track I'm sure, but should get ready for Volleyball and Basketball once that sport is done.

The Wolverines should feel very good about what they did and accomplished this year, but have to be ready to accomplish and achieve even more next year, and do something for an encore.

West Point-Beemer Girls drop first round State Game to North Bend Central

The West Point-Beemer Girls Basketball Team lost 48-33 to North Bend Central in the first round of State at the Devaney Center on Thursday in action aired on 107.9 the Bull.

The Tigers got up 13-6 at the end of one, and won the 2nd quarter 7-5 to take a 20-11 lead into the locker room.

NBC outscored the Cadets 19-9 in the 3rd quarter, and led 39-20 at the end of three.

West Point-Beemer won the 4th quarter 13-9.

Sidney Swanson had 14 points while Rachel Groth and Reece Snodgrass added 8 apiece.

Tough go of things for the Cadets against the eventual C-1 State Champs.

West Point-Beemer's season ends at 23-6.

I think the Cadets probably had more talent last year and were glad to be at State, but this year wanted to win at State.

Unfortunately, things just didn't workout for West Point-Beemer this year, but the Cadets should be even better next year.

West Point-Beemer loses Abbey Dale and Katie Combs to graduation.

Both were injured this year and I think Combs might of missed part of the season and Dale the whole year.

They were a big reason why the Cadets got to where they got this year though.

Swanson led the team with 583 points on the season and 180 rebounds on the year.

She is a great player, and I look for her to have a monster senior campaign next season.

Key returners include Brooklyn Weddle, Groth, Snodgrass, Hannah Landholm, Mollie Nielsen, Swanson, Emily Toelle, Jadyn Meiergerd, Katie Rainforth, and Katie Groth.

I look for West Point-Beemer to breakthrough next year and perhaps take that next step and win a game at State.

The Cadets have to put in a lot of shots and work this offseason, and crank up their workouts and work even harder than before.

West Point-Beemer has to put an extreme amount of effort into their workouts for next year.

The Cadets have to comeback better than ever and with the motto "unfinished business."

I think the loss at State probably kind of left a sour taste in West Point-Beemer's mouths.

The Cadets have to comeback next year with a senior laden team and make another State run.

All the pieces figure to be in place for West Point-Beemer to get back to Lincoln and do something next year too.

Pender Girls come up short at State to Pleasanton

The Pender Girls Basketball Team lost 66-56 to eventual State Champion Pleasanton in the first round of the State Tournament at Lincoln Southwest on Thursday.

The Bulldogs got out to a 20-15 lead after one. Both teams scored 16 points in the 2nd quarter, and the halftime score was 36-31 in favor of Pleasanton.

The Pendragons won the 3rd quarter 13-11 to make it a 47-44 game at the end of three.

The Bulldogs outscored Pender 19-12 in the 4th quarter.

The Pendragons definitely could have won this game. I heard Pleasanton shot something like 46 free throws, like they were 34-46 from the free throw line. That's crazy.

Pender's season wraps up at 17-12.

It was a good year overall for the Pendragons.

Anytime you qualify for State you are doing something right.

Faith Morris and Jessica Krueger are the only players lost to graduation.

Key returners include Reese Kneifl, Caitlyn Heise, Zoey Lehmkuhl, Ashley Ostrand, Skyler Prokop, Lillie Timm, Claire Felber, Olyvia Nelson, and Dawson Anderson.

I look for Pender to make another State Tournament run next year, and perhaps win a game or two down at Lincoln.

The thing about all 6 teams that we had qualify for state this year is that none were senior laden and have a chance to get back next year.

Throw in GACC and there could be 7 teams that qualify for State next year.

If all of them make it next season hopefully we'll be able to cover all the games.

It would have been awesome to have been able to cover the Pendragons' State Tournament Game on the Bull this year.

Game times just didn't workout in our favor this year though.

Perhaps they will next year.

Pender has to really get after things this offseason, and must go out there and be gym rats.

The Pendragons have to be relentless with their offseason workouts and conditioning and game playing.

Pender has to shoot as much as possible in the offseason and improve and hone their skills overall.

The Pendragons have to be thinking big things such as get back to Lincoln next year.

Next year sets up very nicely for the Pendragons to make another State run, and I'm very excited to see what Pender can do next season.

Clarkson/Leigh Girls lose to Oakland-Craig in first round of State

The Clarkson/Leigh Girls Basketball Team fell 41-36 to Oakland-Craig in the first round of the State Tournament at Lincoln North Star Thursday afternoon in action aired on 107.9 the Bull.

The Knights jumped out to an 11-7 lead after one, and won the 2nd quarter 9-8 to take a 20-15 lead into the locker room.

Oakland-Craig outscored the Patriots 13-7 in the 3rd quarter to extend their lead to 33-22 at the end of three.

Clarkson/Leigh outscored the Knights 14-8 in the 4th quarter.

Cassidy Hoffman posted a double-double of 11 points and 10 rebounds while Kim Stodola registered 7 points and 7 rebounds.

The Patriots fought, scrapped, and clawed, but came up just short in the end.

Clarkson/Leigh's season ends at 20-6.

It was definitely a year to remember for the Patriots though.

Clarkson/Leigh should be very proud of making their first ever trip to the State Tournament.

The Patriots say goodbye to Stodola, Ashlynn Novotny, Reagan Settje, and Abbi Brabec.

Clarkson/Leigh has to be thrilled about the future though given all who they bring back.

The Patriots welcome back Kayden Schumacher, Alissa Kasik, Hoffman, Bailey Lemburg, Faith Indra, Kennedy Settje, and Makenna Held, among others.

Clarkson/Leigh ought to feel like they've got a shot to not only get back to State next year, but advance past the first round.

To beat GACC at Sub-State is really saying something.

It's not everyday you take down a perennial power with a State Berth on the line.

The Patriots ought to feel pretty darn proud of themselves for what they accomplished in that game and all season long.

With that said, the returning players and newcomers can't be complacent and have to want more.

Also a huge shout out to this year's senior class for being the class that helped lead Clarkson/Leigh to State for the first time ever.

Their efforts and contributions should not go unrecognized whatsoever.

With that said, the foundation and bar is now set for future teams and classes.

Next year's team has to build off what this year's team did, and get back to Lincoln.

Clarkson/Leigh is a program that has been built from the ground up by Coach Murren, and these girls have to continue to work hard and improve throughout the course of this offseason.

The motto and thought process this offseason and going into next year has to be "Get back to Lincoln."

The girls have to be hungry each and everyday when they're working out and playing the game this offseason.

North Bend Central Boys see season come to abrupt end in Sub-State Final loss to St. Paul

North Bend Central lost 45-44 to St. Paul in the boys C1-4 district basketball championship at Cross County High School Tuesday night, in a game aired on 107.9 The Bull.

St. Paul raced out to a 14-0 lead, and led 19-5 after the first quarter.

NBC recovered by scoring 16 points in the second quarter, and was able to cut the score to 29-21 at halftime.

The Tigers had a solid third quarter as well, scoring 12 points, and after three quarters, NBC trailed just 37-34.

The Tigers came back to tie the game at 42-42, before St. Paul converted a three point play to go up 45-42 with less than 30 seconds left.

Austin Endorf scored a late bucket to make it 45-44.

NBC was forced to foul in order to stop the clock, but the Tigers caught a break when St. Paul missed consecutive free throws, giving NBC the opportunity for a winning shot.

The Tigers had to go the full length of the court with just over four seconds to play. St. Paul came out in full court pressure defensively.

NBC was able to get down the floor in a time, but the winning shot missed from the right corner, preserving the win for St. Paul. The Wildcats were able to avenge a 72-55 loss the NBC from earlier in the season.

Jaxon Wietfeld had 16 points for NBC, with Endorf adding 9 and Brodey Johnson scoring 8.

The Tigers end their season at 23-3 overall.

Really tough break for North Bend Central. The Tigers were on schedule to make another State run up until their last two games of the season.

NBC hit a rut against both Aquinas and St. Paul, and lost for whatever reason.

To call this loss shocking isn't even doing it justice.

I'm flabbergasted that the Tigers lost this game.

I figured North Bend Central was a sure lock for State.

I'm sure the Tigers feel they should still be playing right now.

It is what it is though, and all NBC can do is get ready for next season.

It's tough....you put all this time and effort in to make another State run and have an amazing regular season and first game of Sub-Districts, and then bam the season is over just like that.

Cody Prohaska, Cody Pospisil, Endorf, and Cole Johnson are all lost to graduation.

These four seniors have to be devastated that the team didn't qualify for State in their senior season.

Key returners for next year include Breckin Peters, Johnson, Wietfeld, and Austin Taylor.

The Tigers should have a good chance to make another State run next year, but man this was a difficult end to the season this year.

It might take North Bend Central a bit to recover from this one.

At some point the Tigers have to pick themselves up and get back up on that horse though.

NBC has to work that much harder in the offseason to make sure what happened this year doesn't happen next year.

Easier said than done though as the Tigers had a golden opportunity to make another state run, and came up short.

Oakland-Craig Boys lose in Sub-State Final to Sutton

Sutton outlasted Oakland-Craig 59-56 in the boys C2-3 district basketball championship in Columbus last Monday night, aired on 107.9 The Bull.

The Knights trailed 57-56 and had the ball with 15 seconds left, but a go-ahead shot missed, and Sutton made two free throws to go up by three points with four seconds left. O-C missed a three-pointer at the buzzer to tie the game.

Wyatt Seagren led the Knights with 15 points and 13 rebounds, good enough for a double-double. Caden Nelson and Jaron Meyer added 10 points each. Colton Thomsen had 9 while Gunnar Ray notched 8.

Great run and ride for Oakland-Craig, who was one shot away from making State.

Oakland-Craig ends its season at 17-9.

I thought the Knights played well for a good part of the season.

Oakland-Craig certainly had their ups and downs like any team this year, but I thought the Knights had a successful season as a whole overall.

Thomsen led the team in scoring with a total of 367 points on the season. Seagren was the team's leading rebounder with 217 on the year.

Thomsen, Blake Johnson, Ian Lundquist, and Seagren are lost to graduation.

These seniors were very talented, and will be missed for sure.

Key returners for next year include Ray, Carson Thomsen, Meyer, Trey Deemer, Amon Bryan, Coulter Thiele, Jaden Harney, and Nelson.

The Knights figure to be really solid at the guard spot, but Seagren is a huge loss down low.

However, I look for Bryan to step in and have an immediate impact at the center position next year.

I think Oakland-Craig will be really good at the guard positions in 2020-2021.

So the Knights should be good again next year, but Oakland-Craig has to work hard again to get back to State next year.

The Knights came up short of making state this year, and honestly have to have it as a goal to make it back to Lincoln next season.

Oakland-Craig can definitely do that too, but the kids need to bulk up in the weightroom and have another monster offseason like last year.

I really feel like football strength and conditioning really helps the Knights in basketball as well.

Success in one sport leads to another, and it will be interesting to see how Oakland-Craig fares in both sports next year.

The Knights still have Track this spring to focus on, but after that the returning players and newcomers should get ready for every sport they're planning to be in next year.

BRLD Girls beat South Loup in Sub-State Final

The BRLD Girls Basketball Team beat South Loup 43-32 in the C2-8 Sub-State Final from York Friday night.

Head Coach Rod Peters says his team got the job done defensively. "Defensively I thought we came up with a game plan and the girls executed it pretty well. We played aggressively and rebounded really well."

It's the first ever State Tournament appearance in co-op history for the Wolverines, way to go!!!!!

BRLD (20-5) takes on Crofton (23-3) in the first round of State at Lincoln North Star Thursday night in action that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Warriors won 57-13 over Freeman in the C2-2 Sub-State Final from CCC in Columbus Friday night.

Peters says Crofton is a great team. "Crofton is a very good team that has experience and quality players. They are extremely well coached and it's a program that knows how to win. We will come up with a game plan and give them a battle."

I have no doubts that the Wolverines will give the Warriors their best shot.

Crofton is a great team, but anyone is beatable on any given day/night.

BRLD has to go into this game believing they can win because they definitely can.

Peters says it's an awesome feeling just to be at State. "Qualifying has been really exciting for the girls. Both communities are buzzing about having both the girls and boys making the state tournament. Exciting times for the schools and the communities."

Hopefully both Wolverine teams can take home some hardware from the State Tournament.

Still really cool both teams are there though.

Peters says he is happy for the girls to have this opportunity. "It is a great feeling to qualify for the tournament. Really happy for the girls and the hard work they have put in. In coaching one goal of mine is that every girl gets an opportunity to play in the state tournament."

And while I'm sure BRLD is glad to just be there, I'm sure they want to hang around a little while and win on Thursday and make a run.

Of course that's what every team wants to do I am sure.

The Wolverines have to come out and play tough, hard, and aggressive defense and give Crofton their best shot.

BRLD has to play physical and can't back down from the Warriors whatsoever.

The Wolverines have to play a complete game for 32 minutes and give it their all and best shot.

BRLD has to do everything in their power to win on Thursday and advance to Friday and Saturday.

The Wolverines can definitely do it too they just have to go out there and make it happen.

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

West Point-Beemer Girls beat Milford in Sub-State Final

The West Point-Beemer Girls overcame an early deficit to beat Milford 47-35 for the C1-7 District title at Fremont High Friday night in action aired on 107.9 the Bull.

Milford was leading 9-5 when WP-B’s Reece Snodgrass hit a three pointer at the buzzer, making the score 9-8 Milford after one.

That was the momentum change that the Cadets were looking for, as they outscored Milford 13-4 in the second quarter, taking a 21-13 lead into halftime.

WP-B opened the third quarter on a 7-0 scoring run, before Milford went on an 8-2 run of their own. The Eagles were able to pull within single digits a few times, but West Point-Beemer led 33-23 after the third quarter.

The Cadets made free throws down the stretch and were able to keep Milford at arm’s length, securing the win, and the district championship.

Sidney Swanson had 17 points and 13 rebounds for the Cadets, good enough for a double-double. Snodgrass added 16 points while Brooklyn Weddle totaled 8.

West Point-Beemer is now 23-5 on the season and qualifies for the C1 state tournament.

The Cadets take on North Bend Central (24-2) in the first round of State on Thursday at the Devaney Center in action we'll have for you on 107.9 the Bull.

The Tigers won 55-47 in overtime over Norfolk Catholic in the C1-3 Sub-State Final from Wisner-Pilger Friday night.

NBC beat West Point-Beemer 53-43 in West Point on December 12th in action that we had for you on the Bull.

The Cadets are a much better team now than they were then though, in my opinion.

I feel the key to the game for West Point-Beemer is attacking the basket and getting the Tigers' post players in foul trouble.

I feel this year's game is a much more favorable matchup for the Cadets than last year's game was.

West Point-Beemer gets an afternoon game and is playing a familiar, common opponent.

I definitely think the Cadets have a better chance of winning this year than they did last year.

I feel West Point-Beemer's experience at State last year will really help them this year.

Of course the Tigers made State last year too so they have a lot of experience as well.

I think the winner of this game will reach the State Championship Game.

That can definitely be the Cadets to if they play great and up to their potential.

This game ought to be a great, tight, and closely contested contest.

Both teams should really get after one another and be neck and neck for four quarters.

I feel the game could truly go either way.

It could come down to a free throw, a shot, or perhaps even a defensive stand.

Every possession, every shot, every point, every turnover is so critical.

One mistake late in this one could be the difference between winning and losing.

It will be interesting to see what happens.

Tip-off is scheduled for 3:45 p.m. on the Bull.

North Bend Central Girls outlast Norfolk Catholic in OT in Sub-State Final

The North Bend Central Girls beat Norfolk Catholic 55-47 in overtime in the C1-3 Sub-State Final from Wisner-Pilger Friday night.

The Tigers doubled up the Knights 12-6 in the 1st quarter. Norfolk Catholic outscored North Bend Central 11-3 in the 2nd quarter to take a 17-15 lead into the locker room.

The Knights won the 3rd quarter 19-13 to extend their lead to 36-28 at the end of three.

The Tigers outscored Norfolk Catholic 17-9 in the 4th quarter, including a made three pointer at the buzzer, to tie the game at 45 and send it into OT.

North Bend Central outlasted the Knights 10-2 in the extra session.

What an amazing win for the Tigers. A game they will always remember for sure.

Head Coach Aaron Sterup says it was a once in a lifetime game. "Well, like most people in the gym, I didn’t love our chances there with about 10 seconds left. But in their usual fashion, the girls gutted it out and overcame along with a little bit of luck. It was certainly a game that I won’t forget for a long time."

North Bend Central (24-2) takes on West Point-Beemer (23-5) in the first round of State on Thursday at the Devaney Center in action that will be aired on 107.9 the Bull.

The Cadets knocked off Milford 47-35 in the C1-7 Sub-State Final from Fremont High Friday night in action aired on the Bull.

The Tigers beat West Point-Beemer 53-43 in West Point on Thursday, December 12th in action we also had on the Bull.

Sterup says the Cadets are a stronger team now than they were then. "They have certainly improved. I think their role players have a better understanding of their roles and are much more confident at this point. The transfer they got also helps them. They will be a tougher opponent than we faced the first time, so we will have our work cut out for us."

I think defense and trying to slow down Sidney Swanson, Reece Snodgrass, and Jadyn Meiergerd is key in this one for NBC.

The Tigers have to stop West Point-Beemer's dribble drive game, and keep their post players out of foul trouble.

Sterup says he likes his team's chances of making a state run if they play well. "I think when we play well we are as good as anyone that is in the tournament. Of course, you still have to play well. Hopefully, we are clicking on all cylinders starting Thursday. If we are, I don’t think anything is out of the realm of possibility for this group. With that said, there are a lot of good teams so it is going to take 3 days of really good basketball to win the whole thing."

I really think the winner of this game is destined for the State Title game on Saturday.

Sterup says his team is thrilled to be back at State. "They are very excited to have another opportunity. They have had their eye on this goal ever since we lost last year so it would have been a tough pill to swallow to not make it back. I’m glad they have the opportunity to do it again."

I think the Tigers are a team on a mission, and have a strong chance to win on Thursday.

The Cadets will be very tough though as I feel the game can truly go either way.

Tip-off is scheduled for 3:45 p.m. on the Bull.

It should be a great game, and might be another overtime contest for North Bend Central, who knows.

One thing is for sure though the Tigers have to be ready to play for four quarters, and you know they will be.

Pender Girls beat Cambridge in Sub-State Final

The Pender Girls won 50-43 over Cambridge in the D1-7 Sub-State Final from Grand Island Northwest Friday night.

The Pendragons led 16-11 after one. The Trojans won the 2nd quarter 19-18 to make it a 34-30 game at halftime.

Cambridge won the 3rd quarter 9-6 to make it a 40-39 game at the end of three.

Pender outscored the Trojans 10-4 in the 4th quarter.

Head Coach Luke Hoffman says his team was confident they would win despite the fact things were super tight at the end of the 3rd quarter. "We got in the huddle at the end of the third quarter and the girls were confident that they were going to win the game. When they believe, it makes it easy as a coach to guide them through the final 8 minutes. The girls had been putting a lot of pressure on what I consider a D-1 All-State guard in Korynn Clason all game. Finally our team endurance paid off in the fourth quarter and we were able to hold Clason to no points in the final period and limit the rest of the team. We hit a big three with 2:30 minutes left in the game to let us hold the hammer the rest of the way and dictate the final minutes."

Hoffman says the team is very excited to be back at State. "The girls were thrilled to beat Cambridge and make it to the state tournament. Who wouldn't want to be in the state tournament? The girls really responded the last two weeks in practice with drills and conditioning we put them through to help them win the game on Friday."

The Pendragons (17-11) take on undefeated Pleasanton (25-0) in the first round of State on Thursday at Lincoln Southwest.

The Bulldogs beat Laurel-Concord-Coleridge 44-38 in the D1-3 District Final at O'Neill Friday night.

I think Pender has a chance to pull off the upset in this game.

The Pendragons play an extremely tough schedule and are a better team than their record shows.

I think Pender is going to give Pleasanton all they could ever want and handle and then some.

Hoffman says the Bulldogs generate offense through their press and creating turnovers. "Pleasanton is a physical team that has five ball handlers on the court most of the time in the game. They like to run full court man to man pressure on defense back to man. They live off transitioning off of their press. On offense they are fluid with their couple offenses they run and attack the rim when they get the opportunity."

I think it's going to be imperative for the Pendragons to take care of the ball and limit and minimize turnovers.

Hoffman says post defense will be critical as well. "We will have to defend the post well, rebound well, and stop them from dribble driving the lane which has been a focus in practice this week and the girls have responded and done a nice job of getting their feet in front of defenders and being physical."

Pender has to be very thrilled and excited to be at State.

The Pendragons are no stranger to the State Tournament, but neither are the Bulldogs.

Pleasanton is coached by Jordan Arensdorf, who was the coach at Sandhills-Thedford when the Knights played Lyons-Decatur Northeast at State in 2016.

It should be a very exciting matchup for sure, and I'm very curious and anxious to see how it all turns out.

It figures to be a great game, and should come down to the final minutes and perhaps seconds you would think.

The game is scheduled to tip-off at 3:45 p.m.

And due to West Point-Beemer playing North Bend Central at the same time we will not be able to carry the game on the Bull, unfortunately.

Oakland-Craig Girls beat Wood River in Sub-State Final to advance to State

The Oakland-Craig Girls beat Wood River 55-39 in the C2-1 Sub-State Final from Columbus Friday night to advance to State for the 2nd straight year.

The Knights led 16-10 after one, and won the 2nd quarter 9-6 to take a 25-16 lead into the locker room.

Oakland-Craig outscored the Eagles 17-11 in the 3rd quarter to extend their lead to 42-27 at the end of three.

The Knights won the 4th quarter 13-12.

Kennedy Benne led all scorers with 27 points while Makenna Pearson added 7.

Head Coach Joe Anderson says his team's defense led to their offense. "We were able to create some turnovers with our defense, which led to some easy buckets and got us going offensively."

Anderson adds Benne played a great game. "Kennedy is an outstanding player. She is a senior and knew what was on the line. She brought a lot of energy to the court on both ends."

Oakland-Craig (25-1) takes on Clarkson/Leigh (20-5) in the first round of State on Thursday at Lincoln North Star in action that will be aired on 107.9 the Bull.

The Patriots upset GACC in the C2-4 Sub-State Final from Fremont High Friday night in action also aired on the Bull.

The Knights beat Clarkson/Leigh 55-31 in Clarkson on December 10th.

Anderson says State is a whole different ball game. "The last game happened so long ago. Clarkson-Leigh is a totally different team. IF you beat GACC, you are playing basketball at a pretty high level. To win any games at the state tournament, you are going to have to play some very good basketball, so for us to win on Thursday we are going to have to have 3 great days of preparation and play at a very high level."

I'm sure Oakland-Craig has their sights set on a State Championship and making it to State Championship Saturday.

I feel the Knights have a great chance to make the State Finals as well.

Anderson says the first order of business is to beat the Patriots. "Our girls just love to play basketball together. They have set some very high goals for this team, but they know they can't accomplish it unless they win on Thursday. So it is very important that we take one game at a time and see what happens."

I feel Oakland-Craig avoiding Crofton or Hastings St. Cecilia until the finals is big.

I think the Knights have a great shot to get to the Finals based on how good they are and who is on their side of the bracket.

GICC could be tough in the Semifinals if both them and Oakland-Craig win their first round games though, and Ponca would certainly be no pushover in the Semifinals either.

First things first though as Coach Anderson said, the Knights have to worry about and focus on beating Clarkson/Leigh.

The Patriots are a very good team, and Oakland-Craig is going to have their work cut out for them on Thursday.

I think the Knights having State experience will help them on Thursday though.

Tip-off is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on the Bull.

Clarkson/Leigh Girls win Sub-State Final over GACC

The C2-4 Girls Basketball Sub-State Final at Fremont High Friday night saw Clarkson/Leigh escape with a 45-44 win over Guardian Angels Central Catholic in action aired on 107.9 the Bull.

GACC jumped out to an early 9-0 lead before the Patriots cut the score to 12-10 at the end of the first, still in favor of the Bluejays. GACC also took a 22-17 lead into halftime.

Clarkson/Leigh held GACC to just six points in the third quarter, but the Bluejays still led 28-25 after three quarters.

The fourth quarter was tightly contested, with both teams exchanging leads briefly. But the Patriots outscored the Bluejays 20-16 in the period, helping them to the win.

Kayden Schumacher came off the bench to lead Clarkson/Leigh with 12 points and also had 7 rebounds. Kennedy Settje added 8 points and 9 rebounds while Alissa Kasik totaled 7 points. Cassidy Hoffman posted 11 rebounds while Ashlynn Novotny chipped in 8.

Head Coach Matt Murren says his team remained calm, relaxed, and poised, and simply played their game. "The girls mindset, heart, effort, and ability to keep their composure all lead to us beating GACC Friday night and advancing. We got down 9-0 early on in that game and we took an early timeout. In the timeout we talked about relaxing, taking deep breaths, and just calming ourselves down. Once we settled in and played our game we were able to make plays. It was amazing to see the effort and heart the girls laid out there on the floor for one another. I can't count the number of times we had kids flying around on the ground for the basketball or diving for rebounds. It was an amazing team win and makes everyone in the community extremely excited to go to state."

Clarkson/Leigh improves to 20-5 by winning the C2-4 District title, and advances to the Class C2 state basketball tournament where the Patriots will meet top seeded Oakland-Craig (25-1) in the first round at Lincoln North Start at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday in action that will also be aired on the Bull.

The Knights defeated Wood River 55-39 in the C2-1 Sub-State Final from Columbus High Friday night.

Oakland-Craig beat Clarkson/Leigh 55-31 on December 10th in Clarkson in action we also had on the Bull.

Murren says it's been awesome to see things all come together for his team. "We had a talk during the final week of the regular season on what we needed to do if we wanted to give ourselves a chance at making it to state. Since that day, the girls mindset and mentality has been all on how we are going to get ourselves to Lincoln and how we can make it happen down there. They have gained confidence and a belief in one another that is amazing to see as a coach. It is amazing the difference it makes in a team that just plays free and plays with the ultimate trust in one another and that is what this team is currently doing. The vibe this week at practice has been great."

Murren adds the team has to do the things on Thursday that got them this far. "Oakland-Craig is a heck of a team, they are 25-1 for a reason and they just know how to win. We need to make sure that we come out and just execute our game plan for 32 minutes. That will be the key, we stick to the plan that we are bringing into the game and we execute it for a full game. At the end of the day, this is a team we are very familiar with as we see them in the regular season and they are in our conference. Both teams know a lot about each other, so it should be a fun game. As a coaching staff, it will be important that we keep the players relaxed and ready to enjoy the experience, that is the key thing with the atmosphere. We want to make sure the kids just play like themselves and do everything we can to advance. Making state is a great accomplishment, making a state run would be a memory these kids and this community would remember for a lifetime."

I think playing a familiar opponent will help the Patriots just settle in and play ball.

Clarkson/Leigh already beat GACC, and knows they can compete with anyone.

The Patriots should come in confident and ready to go come Thursday.

Murren says making state is a huge deal for everyone involved. "It is a giant step for our program in making state and for both the communities of Clarkson and Leigh. The excitement at the end of that basketball game is a memory that many will never forget. If you watch the film of it, the girls running to one another at mid-court, the student section trying to storm the court, the fans all high fiving and hugging. It was a surreal moment for everyone. We have great community support here for Clarkson-Leigh and it was evident as we came back to town Friday night. We were escorted in to town by fire trucks and taken down main street where all the fans were lined up to meet the girls and cheer them on. We will have great support on Thursday when we head down to Lincoln to play."

I'm sure Clarkson/Leigh is thrilled to be down at State, but has to come out and try and win at State as well.

GACC Girls end year with Sub-State Final loss to Clarkson/Leigh

The C2-4 Girls Basketball Sub-State Final at Fremont High Friday night saw Clarkson/Leigh escape with a 45-44 win over Guardian Angels Central Catholic in action aired on 107.9 the Bull.

GACC jumped out to an early 9-0 lead before the Patriots cut the score to 12-10 at the end of the first, still in favor of the Bluejays. GACC also took a 22-17 lead into halftime.

Clarkson/Leigh held GACC to just six points in the third quarter, but the Bluejays still led 28-25 after three quarters.

The fourth quarter was tightly contested, with both teams exchanging leads briefly. But the Patriots outscored the Bluejays 20-16 in the period, helping them to the win.

Brenna Rief scored 15 points to lead GACC with Sophia Hass adding 12.

GACC ends its season at 22-4.

Not the end to the season the Bluejays were hoping for or expecting I am sure.

It's not very often GACC loses a game like that.

In fact, I can't think of a scenario where the Bluejays have lost like that any time I've ever watched them until Friday.

It has to be a tough loss and pill to swallow for GACC.

Much was expected of the Bluejays this year as a lot of people, including myself, thought they would get back to state.

It simply didn't happen and wasn't meant to be this year though, and that is disappointing and disheartening for sure.

With that said, GACC was young this year and will be back next year I am sure.

Marissa Hunke and Hanna Knobbe are the two seniors the Bluejays lose to graduation.

Key returners include Rief, Hass, Brandi Doernemann, and Kate Gnad.

I think GACC can definitely get back to State next year, but not making it this year had to really sting.

The Bluejays were in prime position to win and make it, but lost it at the end.

GACC will have to simply regroup and get ready for next year.

The returning players and newcomers and even this year's seniors should go down and watch the State Tournament if they can.

Hopefully fans go down there and support Reece Snodgrass, the GACC transfer now playing for West Point-Beemer.

The Cadets take on North Bend Central at 3:45 p.m. on Thursday the Devaney Center in action we'll have on 107.9 the Bull.

I'm sure the Bluejays really wish they were playing in Lincoln this week though.

To not have GACC down there two years in a row now is simply unheard of.

North Bend Central Boys upset by David City Aquinas in Sub-District Final, but still qualify for Sub-State

The North Bend Central Boys Basketball Team was upset 53-52 by David City Aquinas in the C1-5 Sub-District Final from Columbus High Thursday night.

I must say I was flabbergasted that the Tigers lost.

The good news is NBC still qualified for Sub-State.

The Tigers (23-2) take on St. Paul (18-7) in the C1-4 Sub-State Final from Cross County Tuesday night in action that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Wildcats lost 56-42 to Adams Central in the C1-8 District Final in Grand Island Thursday night.

So you would think North Bend Central would rebound and win this one, but you never know.

The Tigers could afford the loss against the Monarchs, but they can't afford another one Tuesday night.

This is win or go home, do or die for North Bend Central.

If the Tigers lose this one their season is over.

NBC has to come out and not allow that to happen Tuesday night.

The Tigers have to come out and play the way they have most of the season.

The game against Aquinas wasn't North Bend Central's best effort or what the Tigers are all about I would say.

North Bend Central is better than that, and they know it.

The Tigers need to come out and play superb and great basketball Tuesday night.

North Bend Central has to crank up the intensity on both ends of the floor.

The Tigers have to come out and punch their ticket to their second straight tournament.

This is for all the marbles baby, and NBC has to come out and perform at a really high level Tuesday night.

The Girls are 24-2 heading into this week's Girls State Tournament, and it would be pretty cool, fitting, and ironic if the Tiger Boys also went into State with a 24-2 record.

We'll find out if North Bend Central can get the job done Tuesday night.

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

Hopefully it's a successful night and game for the Tigers.

It would be too bad if NBC didn't make another trip to State with an opportunity to get back to the State Championship Game.

The Tigers have to create that opportunity for themselves, and go out there and win Tuesday night.

Wisner-Pilger Boys lose to Hartington Cedar Catholic in Sub-District Final

Hartington Cedar Catholic defeated Wisner-Pilger 54-49 in the C2-5 Sub-District Final played in Wayne and aired on 107.9 The Bull Thursday night.

Colby Heller led the Gators with 15 points, while Dylan Kneifl added 11.

Wisner-Pilger ends their season at 16-9 overall.

Difficult way for the season to end for the Gators.

I'm sure Wisner-Pilger hoped for a better ending to the season.

It definitely wasn't the storybook ending the Gators were looking and hoping for that's for sure.

It's too bad Wisner-Pilger lost, I thought they had a chance to make a run to State.

It is what it is though and nothing can be done about it now.

The Gators part ways with Caleb Rehak, Cole Jacobsen, Kneifl, Caden Schweers, Heller, and Tijs Heuvelmans.

This was a very talented and big senior class lost.

Wisner-Pilger will miss each and every one of these kids for sure.

Key returners for next year include Beau Ruskamp, Regan Bellar, Rockney Peck, Klay Koehlmoos, and Spencer Batenhorst.

It will be interesting to see what the future holds for the Gators.

Wisner-Pilger had a chance to make a run this year, but unfortunately couldn't quite make the State Tournament.

The Gators were close, but couldn't quite do it.

It's too bad and unfortunate too because I felt like Wisner-Pilger had an opportunity to get to Lincoln this year.

It simply wasn't meant to be though, and the Gators just have to regroup and get ready for next year.

The way this season ended has to be a tough pill to swallow for Wisner-Pilger though.

This was the Gators' chance to make State, and unfortunately it just didn't happen for Wisner-Pilger.

I'm sure the Gators will be in play for another potential state berth next year, but the ending to this year has to really sting and hurt.

Time will pass and eventually all will be okay though.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder Boys lose to Wayne in Sub-District Final

The Logan View/Scribner-Snyder Boys Basketball Team lost 34-24 to Wayne in the C1-6 Sub-District Final from Oakland-Craig Thursday night.

The Blue Devils led 4-3 at the end of the 1st quarter. The Raiders won the 2nd quarter 6-5 to tie the game at 9 at halftime.

Wayne won the 3rd quarter 10-8 to go up 19-17 at the end of three.

The Blue Devils outscored LVSS 15-7 in the 4th quarter.

Connor Larson and Trystain Roseberry each had 8 points for the Raiders.

Tough loss and difficult pill to swallow for Logan View/Scribner-Snyder, who missed out on a Sub-State berth by one spot.

Had North Bend Central beat David City Aquinas the Raiders would of made it in. Who'd of thought the Monarchs would beat the Tigers?

LVSS's year ends with a 17-9 record.

The Raiders were led in scoring by Larson, who finished with 319 points on the season.

Garrett Kriete led the team in rebounding with 137.

I'm sure Logan View/Scribner-Snyder is really hurt about how the season ended.

How it ended had to leave a sour taste in their mouths.

It definitely wasn't the end to the season the Raiders were hoping for.

There's always next year, but this one has to hurt.

Wyatt Rebbe and Roseberry are lost to graduation.

Roseberry is a significant loss, but both of these kids meant a lot to LVSS Basketball.

The good news is the core of the team returns next year as seniors.

Key returners for next year include Riley Hoetfelker, Garrett Palmer, Jake Hagerbaumer, Larson, Brett Uhing, Jayden Korman, and Kriete.

The Raiders have to work hard in the offseason, and comeback strong next year.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder has to turn this year's disappointment into next year's joy and success.

These kids have to work extremely hard in the offseason and gear up for next season.

The returning seniors have to take some time and reflect on things, but get ready for next season soon.

The Raiders have to up the intensity with their workouts and play and improve and get better in all facets of the game.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder has to comeback stronger than ever next year, and get ready to make a run.

I think the Raiders have a chance to be very good next year, and break through.

Things will be interesting with LVSS moving to the Capitol Conference.

The East Husker Conference is no more for the Raiders.

Winnebago Boys lose to Logan View/Scribner-Snyder in Sub-Districts

The Winnebago Boys Basketball Team saw their season come to an end Tuesday night as the Indians fell 59-51 to Logan View/Scribner-Snyder in the C1-6 Sub-District Semifinals from Oakland-Craig.

The Raiders held a 13-10 lead on the Indians at the end of one. Logan View/Scribner-Snyder outscored Winnebago 22-10 in the 2nd quarter to take a 35-20 lead into the locker room.

The Indians outscored LVSS 20-7 in the 3rd quarter to make it a 42-40 game at the end of three.

The Raiders won the 4th quarter 17-11.

Winnebago gave Logan View/Scribner-Snyder all they could handle and want and then some, but simply came up a little short.

The Indians end the season at 9-13.

Not the type and kind of season Winnebago was hoping for I am sure.

I'm sure the Indians expected a lot more out of themselves this year.

Things just never came together for Winnebago like they were hoping and expecting.

The Indians say goodbye to Drew Parker, Jeriah Greyowl, Ed Payer, Lourde Kearnes, and Willy Wingett.

Some good players and talent lost to graduation for sure.

Key returners for next year include Kellen Crossbear, Javon Price, and Darius Bass.

I think Winnebago can be good next year, but they will be young.

The Indians had some seniors on the team this year and thought they could get back to their old ways, but it didn't happen this year for whatever reason.

The good news is there is always next year for Winnebago.

The Indians have to really get after things in the offseason and challenge themselves.

Winnebago has to come out and work hard and play a lot of ball between now and mid-November.

The more ball the boys play and the more they workout and lift weights between now and the start of next season the better they will be.

It's tough when you think you're going to have a great season and then things don't turn out the way you hoped they would.

That simply means you have to work even harder than you did the year before and do whatever it takes to get back.

I look for the Indians to do that this offseason, and comeback stronger and better next year.

It's not going to be easy for Winnebago to get back to form next season, but it can definitely happen.

The Indians have to crank up the intensity on the court and in the weightroom this summer, and really put in the work.