News
»Boys outrun by Red Cloud, 96-72
Posted Local at Feb 01, 2012
Coach Joe Waln making a point
By Tim Huether
If you like a fast paced, lots of action, plenty of scoring basketball game, you would have loved the show Bennett County and Red Cloud put on Thursday, Jan. 26 in Martin.
Both teams traded baskets for three quarters, but in the end, Bennett County could not keep pace, and their short bench against the depth and experience of Red Cloud and the Crusaders won 96-72.
Bennett County led 63-61 with 11 seconds to play in the third quarter, but Red Cloud scored, then stole the inbound pass twice, and scored each time for six quick points and led 67-63 at the horn.
Red Cloud stepped on the gas from there, out-scoring the Warriors 29-9 in the final quarter.
The first quarter was back and forth with both teams playing well as Red Cloud clung to a 23-22 lead. Bennett County’s Dayre Evans launched a half court shot at the buzzer and buried it for a three pointer.
In the second quarter, the Crusaders shot to a 10 point lead at 34-24, but the Warriors responded with a 13-2 run, taking the lead at 37-36. Evans would keep the Warriors on top at the half as he grabbed an offensive rebound and put it back in for his second straight buzzer beater basket of the game and a 47-46 score.
In the third quarter, a three pointer by Eli Livermont spotted the Warriors their largest lead at 52-48, but Red Cloud battled back to tie the game four times before their run of six points at the end of the quarter put them up 67-63.
The fourth quarter was all Red Cloud as they showed why they are one of the top teams in West River with good ball distribution and outstanding outside shooting, as they pulled away for the 96-72 win.
Bennett County, despite the 24 point loss, played an outstanding game with excellent passing, rebounding and overall team play. It was one of their best games of the season and likely one to help them improve down the road.
“Our boys fought hard all game long and our losing was not for a lack of effort,” said coach Joe Waln. “Their coach said they played one of their better games of the year. We’re jelling at the right time.”
Game Stats:
Ryan Richards 19, Wade Porch 17, Dayre Evans 15, Eli Livermont 13, Jon McDonnell 4, Jacob Waln 2, Will Schulz 2.
JV: Red Cloud 49, Bennett County 23
Scoring: Keali’i Heath 6, Quentin Red Bear 6, Enos Poor Bear 4, Jesse Gregg 3, Kyler Rayhill 2, Keith Hodson 2.
C game: Red Cloud 47, Bennett County 27
Scoring: Michael Nieves 7, Jesse Gregg 4, Lane Saxton 4, Derek Vander May 4, Kurt Puckett 3, Isaiah Marshall 3, Charlie Risse 2.
Bennett County hosts the number one rated Class B White River Tigers Friday and Valentine Saturday.