tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12188027714695885822024-03-13T20:43:33.094-07:00The GenzThe Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.comBlogger117125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-73321894234061119422018-03-11T09:57:00.003-07:002018-03-12T07:31:57.821-07:00Ode to GHS Class of 1978 – <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div style="background: white; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Ode to GHS Class of 1978 – </span></b></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: white; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">“Don’t be dismayed at good-byes. A farewell is necessary before
you can meet again. And meeting again, after moments or lifetimes, is certain
for those who are friends.” - Richard Bach</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: white; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">As the Class of 1978 moves closer to a 40th anniversary, all of
us that remain have some fondness for those days in the past. Life has happened
for each of us and in various ways. But for those that shared years in a
classroom, on a sports team, in a theatre or music group or just as friends,
reconnecting offers a brief and short time when memories will flow like the
beverages in the glasses to be drunk.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: white; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Whether celebration of the 40th occurs in our hometown of
Gettysburg or some other locale, say in the Black Hills, the gathering will be
ripe with joy. Friends drawn together with memories and moments stored in their
thoughts and sharing those days gone by and utter hope for the future.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: white; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Perhaps not everyone remembers high school fondly. There are
always those circumstances where too much said or done without consideration of
others and what they may have been experiencing. Yet, there were many shared
moments of fun and life, filtered with reality, whether personally, among
cliques or as part of a group.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: white; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">For me, so many memories.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: white; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Mrs. Hart’s typing class when a water balloon burst a desk ahead
of mine, and a classmate looked back with a surprised look on her face that
turned to a smirk and into a smile – priceless.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Thinking back,
that ruler of Mrs. Hart’s kind of hurt my fingers when my eyes focused too long
on the typewriter keys and a little swat happened – yes typewriter, the only
computer in the school was a commodore in the library.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">There was that time in business
law class when a certain someone – me – was reading from a textbook and a bad
word (sh--) came from the mouth as the class erupted in laughter. There, Mrs.
Hart said, “quiet, quiet, he can't help it if he can’t read.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">The school is gone now, replaced
with something fancy and new. The multiple floor building replaced by one on
all the same level.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">I remember the walk up the
sidewalk, past the bell and into that first floor where a little smoke emerged
time to time from the teacher’s lounge.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Onto the second floor where some
of us had lockers, which clanked and never closed right whether from too much
junk or mishandled textbooks and notebooks, coats and hats.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">There was heading downtown during
lunch to Gordon’s or the Bakery. Nut rolls and bismarcks pretty tasty right?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Drinking three or four Pepsi with
sunflower seeds after football practice while playing pinball as older guys
played their cards, soaking in beer and Coke amidst cigar smoke and old guy
chatter.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Growing up in Gettysburg meant
few (I don’t remember) if any days off for snow.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It meant football practice on
fields that one day would be part of a Gettysburg Football/Track complex.
Remember those 4x4 and gut busters?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It meant lying in bed with flu
while watching classmates, on TV no less, walked out protesting the firing of a
basketball coach.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It meant cruising on icy roads
with the head basketball coach and getting sideswiped as metal met metal just
outside a church.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It meant getting up for fall
practice early in the AM and then wearing that same old stinky t-shirt until it
was so stiff it had to be washed or throw away. It was towel fights and the
snaps causing pain in the buttocks region.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It was wrestling practice
upstairs as basketballers made their noise in the lower gym. It was running the
hallways in timed reps and wondering why this was at all fun.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It was wrestling as a senior and
winning a doozy of a match 10-9 at the Battler Invitational at the Gettysburg
Gym before competing at Districts and regions where one false move cost a trip
to state, where a couple of teammates advanced.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It was watching proudly how the
drill team performed with class and at a high-performance level.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It was hearing the band noise in
the music room and Mr. Jensen spouting on about government. It was taking an
accounting class from Mr. Eich, wondering why anyone would want to do that
ciphering for a living. It was trying to stay awake during class. It was
biology and figuring out genetic tables and realizing science was not my bag.
It was geometry and those theorems and being told they'd have application in my
future (By the way I made it through college without another geometry class
though Algebra and biology would be required and tax me to the limit). It was
daydreaming in English composition. It was working on the school newspaper with
visions of being a great writer one day.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It was the ringing of the bell,
the shuttering feet, the bumps in the hallways with an occasional “I’m sorry.”
It was sneaking down to the weightroom or out of the school without a pass.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">During track season, it was
heading out to run miles on gravel roads south or east of town. It was feeling
a sense of pride as the track team tied for a state title.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It was watching the theatrical
plays and working on the annuals.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It was heading to the district
tournament in hopes of going to regions and state in hoops.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Friday or Saturday nights meant
cruising the loop, sneaking sips or chugs of beer and/or coke while munching on
seeds and pistachios while maintaining an unswerving car. It was out to the movie
drive-in theatre where socializing and, yes, beer drinking, was more important
than the movie on the big screen. It was traversing to the Pitcher House or the
river for a little fun, sometimes even involving fishing.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It was sitting in the hallway
with your mind focused on the football game ahead, heading out the door and
into the Gettysburg Park as the school band’s version of “On Wisconsin” rang
into the cool fall evening.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It was the cheerleaders and fans
braving the cold in those ugly green stands and cars parked around the park the
night before to ensure a seat while indulging in various tailgate treats. It
was the "Burning of the G" and homecoming.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It was playing baseball in that
same park in summers with best friends.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It was Prom where fancy met grungy
and –</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">“If a picture paints a thousand
words that why can’t I paint you? The words will never show the you I’ve come
to know. If a face could launch a thousand ships then where am I to go…If the
world should top revolving, spinning slowly down to die, I spend the end with
you and when the world was through…then one by one the stars would all go out
then out and I would simply fly away.”</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It was graduation rehearsal where
school administrators tried to little avail to get things to flow seamlessly.
It was gearing up for commencement where everybody played their part and things
went off with nary a hitch. It was there where the first of the goodbyes and
good lucks were offered to each other, family, friends, teachers,
administrators and younger classmates.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Few will remember the speaker but
we remember those tacky red gowns and caps. The long line outside of the gym
with some tears flowing, smiles and goodbyes. After a quick hello to mom and
dad and relatives at home, a trip to the river finished the night.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It was saying thank you to the
teachers who really meant a lot and taught us much.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">It was remembering those who
started school with us but moved due to family circumstance.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Lest not forget Pam Fransen,
David Bieber and Dennis Spicer – Craig Frost too, gone too soon.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">You are all missed. Bieb I will
never forget those trips down the back way to the River and basketball at your
house during open study halls. Dennis, you were always a good friend and boy we
had some fun. Pam your smile still radiates around us all. Craig, I still miss
you pal.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">For some college followed, and
other ventured elsewhere, farming and ranching and more. Each of our lives has
been different but special.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">From there, an 11-year reunion
celebration was met by 20-year and 30-year reunions. Now it is No. 40. Doesn’t
seem feasible that many years have passed although Facebook has helped us share
images and stories and how life has happened.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Before I go, lest not forget Pam
Fransen, David Bieber and Dennis Spicer – Craig Frost too. Gone too soon.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">You are all missed. Bieb I will
never forget those trips down the back way to the River and basketball at your
house during open study halls. Dennis, you were always a good friend and boy we
had some fun. Pam your smile still radiates around us all. Craig, I still miss
you pal.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">I think Alexandre Dumas, the
author of “The Count of Monte Cristo” captured the reality of reunions and
trips back home.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit" , serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">“I was
delighted to see you again, and forgot for the moment that all happiness is
fleeting.” </span><span style="display: none; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 8.0pt;"></span></div>
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The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-76686004378005336962013-12-10T17:11:00.003-08:002013-12-11T09:23:20.210-08:00SD Prep Boys Basketball Preview - Race for Titles Begin Tonight<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">It is an old cliché, I know, but in South Dakota prep boys basketball, “the more things change, the more they remain the </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CmfSbX2fL_g/Uqe7hm1p9eI/AAAAAAAABLk/A7UC5zbXtm0/s1600/basketball_hoop-986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CmfSbX2fL_g/Uqe7hm1p9eI/AAAAAAAABLk/A7UC5zbXtm0/s320/basketball_hoop-986.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
same.” Boys basketball will again feature numerous programs battling for state championships, some for their first title ever, in three different classes. <br />
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<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">A year ago, we witnessed Pierre Riggs’ “Green Power” in full force as they won the Class AA Championship after some struggles earlier in the year. The Class A crown went to a balanced and talented Madison team when favorite Clark-Willow Lake fell in the opening round to Platte-Geddes, which has moved to Class B in 2013-14. And in Class B, White River won a second straight title and their fourth in six years. Head Coach Eldon Marshall's Tigers have made eight straight final fours at the Class B Tourney. </span><br />
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<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">The die is cast - will any of these three teams repeat? Madison (Class A) looks like the favorite while both Pierre (Class AA) and White River (Class B) were hit hard by graduation. </span><br />
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<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">Now, the light turns on for every team this week, and as we know from past performance, anything can happen and usually does in South Dakota prep boys basketball. So, get ready, games tip off this week. I can’t wait.</span><br />
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<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"><strong><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="text-decoration: underline;">Class AA</span></strong> – <strong>Boys</strong></span><br />
<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">This class appears to be wide open. With defending champion Pierre hit hard by graduation, the door is open for a new champion. The teams at the head of the group include Sioux Falls Lincoln, Huron, Brandon Valley and others.<strong> </strong></span><br />
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<strong><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">Head of the Class – Sioux Fall Lincoln </span></strong><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">appears to be a team with a lot of upside in 2013-14. While just 13-13 a year ago, the Patriots finish fourth at the State AA Tourney, making a 30</span><span style="font-size: small;"><sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"> state tourney appearance since taking second at the 1968 State A. It was the Patriots eighth tournament appearance in nine years. SFL, which won titles in 1970, 1976, 1995 and 2009, took second four other times and have had eight finals appearancea. Lincoln was ranked third in the KSFY-KWSN SD Broadcasters Preseason Poll but earned five first-place votes, most of any school. The Patriots return a pair of standout senior forwards in Addison Park (11.6 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 52.4% from the floor) and Calvin Krause. They get back Cameron Burgard, who was out last year with injury. They also have tough 6-1 guard/forward Caleb Rector. <strong>Brandon Valley</strong>, which was #1 in the KSFY-KWSN SD Broadcasters Poll, has one of the best point guards in the class in Nic Peterson while also bringing back talented shooting guard/forward Jacob Adams, who had 15 double digit scoring games and a high of 27 vs. Lincoln. Adams averaged 12.5 ppg and 5.7 rpg a year ago. Peterson, who had 13 double figure scoring games and averaged 11.5 points and 5.7 rebounds per game a year ago, creates pressure out front, which will cause some teams problems bringing the ball up the floor. BV, directed by head coach Brent Deckert, was 18-7 and 2</span><sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"> in the Class AA State Tournament a year ago. The Lynx, which made its 12th tourney appearance, won its only State AA title in 1998. BV has gone to the State AA in three of the last four seasons with the first-ever appearance a third<span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="text-decoration: underline;">-</span>place finish in 1965. <strong>Huron</strong>, directed by head coach Tim Buddenhagen, were 16-9 in 2012-13 and sixth in the Class AA Tourney (61-54 loss to Brookings). Huron, 77-44 over the last five seasons, will be led by USD recruit Justin Decker, a 6-6 forward who averaged 15.8 ppg and 6.0 rpg while shooting 48 percent from the field. Huron also returns 6-6 senior forward Caleb Carr, 5-11 senior guard Will Carr, 6-0 forward Lucas Morrison and others. Huron (1917, 1927, 1930, 1936, 1937, 1945, 1958, 1973, 1981, 1993, 2004) has won 11 titles and finished second five other times with 48 state tourney appearances, five of the last six.</span></span><br />
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<strong><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">In the Mix</span></strong><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"> – <strong>Rapid City Stevens </strong>was 11-15 a year ago and seventh in the Class AA State Tournament. The Raiders defeated city rival Rapid City Central in the 7</span><span style="font-size: small;"><sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"> place game. By going to the State Tourney a year ago, Stevens, directed by head coach Derris Buus, made their 17</span><sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"> AA tournament appearance and the first since 2007. Stevens won the 1989 title and was second in 1977, and 1995. This team returns talented 6-2 senior guard Steve Schaeffer, who averaged 19.1 ppg, 3.7 rebounds and hits 44.2% from the field. He is one of the state’s best guards and looks for a big senior campaign. Also back will be 5-10 senior guard Jacob Vifquain (6.7 ppg, 2.0 rpg), 6-0 senior guard Matt Wilson (3.8 ppg, 2.3 rpg), and 6-5 junior forward Sam McCloud (3.4 ppg and 4.5 rpg), an up and coming player who has had a great summer. <strong>S.F. Roosevelt</strong>, which was 23-2, finished 3</span><sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"> at 2013 State AA Tourney. Roosevelt, which made its 11</span><sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"> state tournament appearance, won its only title in 2000. The Rough Riders, directed by head coach Lee Taylor, has gone to the State AA three of the last four years and three times has finished third. Roosevelt was hit hard by graduation but return Chris Phillips (4.3 ppg, 3.6 rpg), Josh Kirkwold (4.9 ppg, 2.3 rpg) and Colton Kooima (3.9 ppg). Kooima, a deadly shooter from the perimeter, hit 42 percent from three point range. <strong>S.F. O’Gorman</strong>, 6-16 a year ago, missed out on the 2013 State AA Tournament. While last year was tough for head coach Derek Robey and his troops, O’Gorman entered last year with five AA titles in seven years, including three straight championships. Returning to lead what should be an improved O’Gorman team will be seniors include Connor Nagel (6-2, Jr., G/F), Tanner Schulte j(5-11, Jr., G), Tommy Entwisle (6-4, Jr., F/C), Spencer Hopkins (6-3, Jr., F/C), Max Donohue (5- 11, Jr., F), and Jaden Holzer (5-11, Jr., G). Out west, <strong>Sturgis Brown</strong> is another team that could surprise some folks. While just 8-15 a year ago, they have nearly every player back, including 6-7 junior center Kellen Barden, who was a double digit scorer a year ago. They will be led by 5-11 junior guard Kody Kracht along with 6-3 senior guard Tanner Weaver, who was the starting QB on their football team. If Jason Schneider, a 5-10 junior guard, comes back from a football injury this squad, led by head coach Orion Thompson, could open some eyes. Sturgis Brown has won two titles (1951, 1947) with three total championship game appearances in 18 total state tourney appearances with the most recent in 2011.</span></span><br />
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<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"><strong>Genz’s Power Poll</strong> – 1. SF Lincoln 2. Brandon Valley 3. Huron 4. Rapid City Stevens 5. SF Roosevelt.</span><br />
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<strong><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">Class A – Boys </span></span></strong><br />
<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">As the season kicks off, defending champion Madison looks like the heavy favorite to repeat. They have three titles in six years and want to make it four in seven. However, teams like St. Thomas More, Dakota Valley, Aberdeen Roncalli and others also plan to make their case as a title aspirant. We will see.</span><br />
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<strong><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">Head of the Class – Madison</span></strong><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">, utilizing extraordinary balance<strong>, </strong>finished 24-2 with a Class A title a year ago. The Bulldogs, which made their 23</span><span style="font-size: small;"><sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"> state tournament appearance, has won five championships, including in 1921, 1945, 2008, 2010 and 2013. Madison, the #1 team in the KSFY-KWSN SD Broadcasters Poll in Class A, have finished runner-up five times for 10 total championship game appearances. The Bulldogs, which averaged 68.4 points per game a year ago, had a 22-point victory margin (68.4-to-46.3 ppg). Madison, directed by head coach Michael Ricke, has compiled a 172-25 record in the past eight seasons with 20-win campaigns five times. They have won 20 games or more in 4-of-the-last-5 seasons. This year’s team will feature several talented performers, led by senior Trae Vandeberg (11.6 ppg and 5.2 rpg), who hit over 50 percent from 3-point range. Jacob Giles (7.4 ppg, 3.4 rpg), and Preston Nordling (5.3 ppg) are other key players back. This Bulldogs team will be good again.</span></span><br />
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<strong><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">In the Mix</span></strong><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"> – <strong>St. Thomas More</strong>, which was 20-2 a year ago, lost in districts to Spearfish, 41-36. One of the state’s top teams a year ago, STM returns some outstanding talent including 6-1 senior forward Jeron Laurenti, 6-3 senior forward Jacob Henderson, 6-2 junior forward Lincoln Feist, and 5-11 guard Caden Skinner, among others. Dave Hollenbeck’s team won titles in 2012, 2011, 2007 and 2006 while finishing second in 2010 with seven total state tourney appearances. So, they have reached title game in three of the past four seasons. <strong>Dakota Valley, </strong>17-6 a year ago, lost 57-55 to state-tourney team Tea Area in the region finals. The Panthers, led by head coach Jason Kleis, has two state tourney appearances (2011-12, 2</span><span style="font-size: small;"><sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">; 1999-00). The Panthers will be led by sharpshooter<strong> </strong>Brody Van Ginkel (5-10, Sr., G, 11.5 ppg, 2.3 rpg, 2.0 apg, 1.5 spg) as well Isaac Faldmo (6-5, Sr., G/F, 8.8 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 1.9 rpg), Jason Lupkes (6-4, Sr., F, 9.0 ppg, 7.8 rpg) forward and Andrew Prochello (6-1, Sr., F, 4.9 ppg, 3.8 rpg). <strong>Aberdeen Roncalli,</strong> 17-6 a year ago and sixth at the State A Tourney, has qualified for four consecutive State A Tourneys. The Cavaliers, directed by head coach Todd Neuendorf, has 13 state tourney appearances and one title (1975). Leading the team will be 6-1 junior guard, Brayden McNeary (6.6 ppg, 4.0 rpg) along with 6-2 senior forward Zach Andera (8.1 ppg, 5.7 rpg). The Cavaliers will also include 6-1 senior guard Zach Schaefbauer (5.7 ppg, 1.4 rpg), 6-2 senior forward Lucas Lorenz (4.6 ppg, 3.4 rpg) along with 6-3 junior forward Landon Hollein, 6-1 junior guard Zach Lundquist and 5-10 senior guard Greg Zens. <strong>Canton, </strong>12-9 a year ago, will chase its first-ever state crown with what should be a very talented squad. Canton, directed by veteran head coach Paul Anderson (171 career wins), has made six state tournament appearances with the first in 1917 and the most recent, 1985, some 28 years ago. The C-Hawks, which will look to add a basketball title to its 11B football crown, will be led by 6-4 senior forward Cody Willett (17.1 ppg, 9.6 rpg, 2.7 apg) and 5-10 senior guard Jay Lems (12.6 ppg, 2.0 rpg, 2.6 apg). In addition, 5-11 junior guard Anders Peterson (9.0 ppg, 4.2 rpg) and 6-1 senior forward Tyler Lems (6.4 ppg, 6.3 rpg) around out a solid group. <strong>Sisseton, </strong>16-7 a year ago and 51-14 over the past three seasons, dropped a 56-54 decision to state-tourney team Aberdeen Roncalli in regions. Sisseton, directed by head coach Adam Nelson, has won one title (1963) with 14 state tournament appearances. They will look to return to the State A for the first time since 2009. This team could be tough with outstanding size and quickness. They are led by standout 6-6 senior guard Jordan Cornelius and 6-8 senior center Wyatt Youngblum. Also back will be 6-1 guard Brayden Tasa, and 5-8 senior guard Korbyn Bertsch. <strong>Pine Ridge</strong>, 14-11 a year ago, will be seeking a fourth title this year under the direction of Lyle LeBeau. Pine Ridge has made 20</span><sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"> state tournament appearances with titles in 1936, 1962 and 1987 and runners-up in 1963. A year ago Pine Ridge advanced to its first state appearance since 2004, led by senior forward Jeff LeBeau (17.5 ppg, 8.7 rpg, 4.2 apg), one of the top players in Class A. Also back will be 6-2 senior forward Jake Brown (12.3 ppg, 3.2 rpg), 5-11 senior forward Jacob Dreamer (10.2 ppg, 6.5 rpg), 6-4 senior center Mike Brings Plenty (5.0 ppg, 5.0 rpg) 6-1 senior forward Ki-Jana Gray Grass (2.6 ppg, 6.0 rpg) as well as 5-11 senior guard Jeramy Bettelyoun (1.1 ppg, 2.3 rpg).<strong>Sioux Valley</strong> hasn’t been in the state title conversation lately with its last state tourney appearance in 2010. In the past three years, they are 36-29 after going 79-24 from 2007-10 when they made four straight State A Tourney appearances. Overall, they have nine tourney appearances with three third-place finishes (2001, 1973, 1972) but no state titles. This team could be a surprise with the return of the core of its lineup, including talented 6-3 freshman guard Tayton Vincent, son of head coach Bill Vincent. They also return 5-10 senior guard Kyler Krogh, 6-2 senior forward Tyler Tofte, 5-11 senior guard Layne Lucas, 6-6 senior center Spencer Hanson and 6-4 senior forward Greg Reeter. Another team that could cause some problems is <strong>Cheyenne-Eagle Butte</strong>, which returns a talented core group. CEB, 10-11 a year ago, feature one of the top players in Class A in 6-3 senior guard Xavier Norris (18.4 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 4.4 apg) and also return a solid 6-3 senior forward in Cray Allen (12.8 ppg, 5.6 rpg) and a 6-3 senior center Wyatt Knight (4.0 ppg, 4.5 rpg). CEB has made 19 tournament appearances, winning the 1959 state title (as Cheyenne) with the most recent state tourney appearance in 2003. Another team that could be in the mix will be <strong>Custer</strong>, which was 11-9 a year ago. Custer is directed by one of the greatest coaches in prep history in Larry Luitjens, who compiled a 733-298 record in 41 years as a head basketball coach (40 in South Dakota). After one year in North Dakota and four years at DeSmet High School, Luitjens, a native of Britton, S.D., and graduate of Northern State, has coached 36 seasons at Custer, which last won the title in 2002 and finished second in 2003. He has coached more than 20 all-state players. In total, the Wildcats have 17 state tourney appearances with the first in 1954. Custer will be led by 6-5 senior guard Chase Glazier, a talented player who was the QB on the football team. The Wildcats also return 6-1 senior forward Logan Burns and 6-1 senior guard Kenneth Meyers.</span></span><br />
<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"><strong></strong></span><br />
<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"><strong>Genz’s Power Poll</strong> – 1. Madison 2. Dakota Valley 3. Sisseton 4. Aberdeen Roncalli 5. Sioux Valley.</span><br />
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<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"><strong><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="text-decoration: underline;">Class B –</span></strong><strong> Boys</strong></span><br />
<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">White River has owned Class B over the past several years. The two-time defending champion should again be in the hunt but graduation took a heavy toll with the loss of standouts like Wyatt Krogman, Nic Waln, Joe Cameron and Gilbert Morrison. With the door a little ajar, look for some other teams to lay claim for a title. Langford Area, Potter County, James Valley Christian, Castlewood, Platte-Geddes and others are teams that should be serious contenders for all the marbles in Class B.</span><br />
<strong><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">Head of the Class – Langford Area</span></strong><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">, 20-6 a year ago, finished sixth at the 2012-13 Class B Tournament. It was Langford Area’s fifth overall state tournament appearance and third since 2007. They were third two years ago but have not won a state title. Langford Area sets up to be one of the top contenders in Class B. They are directed by seventh-year head coach Paul Raasch (27</span><span style="font-size: small;"><sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"> overall), who is 141-28 at Langford and 405-185 overall. Langford Area return one of the best players in Class B in 6-3 junior Bo Fries (18.2 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 7.3 apg, 2.3 spg), as well as 6-3 senior Drew Planteen (12.0 ppg, 8.9 rpg and 2.9 bpg). They also return 6-1 senior guard Chase Larson (3.1 ppg and 2.7 rpg) and 6-2 senior forward Zach Punt (6.1 ppg, 2.4 rpg). <strong>James Valley Christian</strong>, 23-3 a year ago, was fifth in the Class B Tournament a year ago. JVC, directed by head coach Darwin Hofer, has not won a title but made the State B for the fourth time (2013, 1011, 2010, 2004), including three times in the past four years. They will be led by a pair of standout forwards in 6-4 senior center Andrew Ulvestad (11.8 ppg, 6.2 rpg) and 6-4 senior forward Nathan Wedel (17.6 ppg, 7.9 rpg), who has 978 career points. Directing the attack will be 5-10 senior guard Alex Waldner (6.9 ppg). <strong>Potter County</strong>, 23-2 a year ago, finished 7</span><sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"> at the Class B State Tourney. A year ago the Battlers, directed by Bryce Hall, finished the regular season unbeaten at 22-0 before going 1-2 at the state tourney. Potter County averaged 57.1 ppg, 15.6 steals per game and 22.5 rebounds per game in making state in its first year as a co-op with Gettysburg and Hoven. Neither of the schools has captured a state basketball title. Hoven made one appearance at state in 1989 while Gettysburg was second in 1950, sixth in 1970, eighth in 1975, consolation champs in 2002 with other appearances in 2004 and 2005. The Battlers are led by the coach’s son and senior Chayce Hall (14.4 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 5.5 apg, 4.2 spg, 16 3’s), who was the Joe Robbie Award winner in the Battlers’ title win in 9A in football. Also back will be senior sharpshooter Kole Hawkinson (12.3 ppg, 43-of-114 for 38.4 percent from 3-point range). The Battlers also return Tanner Heuer (8.1 ppg, 2.8 spg), and Mitch Hinckley (4.5 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 2.0 spg). </span></span><br />
<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"><strong></strong></span><br />
<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"><strong>In the Mix –Platte-Geddes</strong>, 17-9 a year ago, was third at Class A Tourney a year ago. Now they have moved to Class B (District 11) and will look to win their first ever B School which would go with a 2008 A title. They have been to five B tourneys, including the first one in 1945 as Platte. They also appeared in 12 State A Tourney, three as Platte-Geddes and nine as Platte. The Panthers will be led by 6-4 junior forward Coby Johnson (13.2 ppg, 6-4 rpg), who helped orchestrate the upset of #1 Clark-Willow Lake at last year’s state tourney.<span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="text-decoration: underline;"> </span><strong>Wolsey-Wessington</strong> , 20-2 a year ago, lost in the districts to James Valley Christian, 63-58. They had defeated JVC, 62-57 10 days earlier and knocked JVC out of the tournament in 2011-12. Wolsey-Wessington suffered some graduation losses (Hayden Hooks) but return standout 6-1 junior guard Lorenzo Williams (16.5 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 3.4 apg, 4.2 spg), 5-8 senior guard Ryne Johnson (4.6 ppg, 1.4 apg) and 6-4 senior forward Alex Babcock (10.5 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 1.7 spg). A year ago, they averaged nearly 68 points per outing and could do that again. Wolsey-Wessington missed on the state tourney a year ago but made it in 2012. As Wolsey, they finished third in 1955, qualified in 1957 and, as Wessington, was the 1972 runner-up in Class B.<strong>Sully Buttes</strong></span><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;">, 11-12 a year ago, lost to Potter County, 50-43 in the regional tourney. A young team, Sully Buttes returns 6-2 sophomore forward Scott Senftner, 5-9 sophomore guard Cody Nelson, 5-9 junior guard Brayden Wittler, 5-11 senior forward Josh Lamb, and 6-0 senior guard Lewis Hofer. Keep an eye on this group, which is part of a program that have gone 149-49 since 2005 with four 20-win seasons and seven seasons of at least 18 wins. Sully Buttes won the 2009 Class B crown and made eight straight state tourney appearances before last year. As Sully Buttes, the Chargers have been 13 state tournament appearances with the one title. Including their time as Onida, they have three more State B appearances with titles in 1953 and 1969 and a runners-up finish in 1968. <strong>Castlewood</strong>, 11-7 a year ago, lost to Arlington, 63-51 in district finals. Before that early out a year ago, the Warriors, directed by head coach John Rasmussen, had reached the last two state B tourneys but missed last season. They won a state title in 1999 and 2001 and were second in 2000 and 2003 with 10 total state tourney appearances. Castlewood will be a team to watch with plenty of size and strength, led by 6-5 senior forward Lucas Ching (14.1 ppg, 10.3 rpg, 1.3 apg, 1.2 bpg) and his twin brother Adam Ching, also a 6-5 senior forward, who averaged 9.6 ppg, 7.6 rpg and 1.7 apg. Also back is talented 6-4 senior guard-forward Gunnar Johnson, who scored 14.2 ppg (40-116 from 3 pt. range) with 3.8 rpg and 2.3 apg. Also back will be 6-0 junior guard Jacob Tvedt (5.2 ppg, 1.8 rpg). <strong>Arlington</strong> , 17-7 a year ago, took 8</span><span style="font-size: small;"><sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"> at the 2012-13 Class B Tourney. A year ago, Arlington advanced to the state tourney for the first time since 2008 and 11</span><sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"> overall. They won state titles in 1938 (32-17 over Doland), 1968 (69-64 over Parker) and 2006 (64-57 over Faith). Arlington is coached by Mike Parry, who has 187 career wins with the opportunity to get to 200 this season. His team returns 6-0 senior guard Andrew King, who averaged 15 points, 4.7 rebounds and five assists per game in a state tourney run. Also back will be 5-11 junior forward Tanner Lemme (3.7 ppg, 3.5 rpg) and 6-7 junior center Kyle Stegeman. <strong>Oelrich</strong>s, 46-7 over the past three years and 16-2 a year ago, will be another tough team in Class B with the return of standout guard Eriq Swiftwater, who interestingly played football for Hot Springs this fall. Swiftwater, a 6-2 senior, averaged about 17 points and grabs seven rebounds per game for Oelrichs, coached by Rob Cox But the problem for Oelrichs is they are in the same region as White River. And, of course, we can’t forget about <strong>White River,</strong> 25-1 a year ago with another state title, defeating Viborg-Hurley in the final for the second straight season (63-51). White River averaged 86.69 points per game a year ago, totaling 2,254 points. For the first time in school history, the Tigers won back-to-back titles (52-43 over Viborg-Hurley in 2011-12) to go along with championships in 1955 (56-55 over Hayti), 2008 (66-50 over Langford), and 2010 (66-63 over Hitchcock-Tulare) for five total. The influence of head coach Eldon Marshall has been significant during this incredible run. Marshall has a career mark of 228-58 in 12 seasons, including 208-38 at White River in 10 seasons. He has led this program to the State B final four eight straight years and into the title game six consecutive times with four titles. The school has also made tournament appearances in 1949, 1956, 1993, 2006 (4th), 2007 (3rd), 2009 (2nd) and 2011 (2nd). White Lake finished the season scoring 86 points or more 14 times, 90 points 10 times with six games over 100. White River won 24-of-26 games by at least 12 points and 20 by 20 or more. This program has won at least 21 games in eight straight seasons, going 50-2 over the last two years. It is an overall mark of 182-24 or a winning percentage of .883. Pretty impressive. Looking ahead, Marshall has to replace a lot of key players who have been lost to graduation, They include Joe Cameron, Wyatt Krogman, Nic Waln and Gilbert Morrison. However White River return 6-1 senior forward</span><span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"> Tavis Burbank (10.2 ppg and 7.4 rebounds), 5-11 junior guard Tre Iyotte (4.9 ppg), and 6-7 junior center Justin Folkers. And, it should be noted that the junior varsity members will be given their chance to shine. From what I have heard, they are pretty good. So in White River, the beat goes on. </span></span><br />
<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"><strong></strong></span><br />
<span data-mce-style="font-size: small;"><strong>Genz’s Power Poll</strong> – 1. Langford Area 2. James Valley Christian 3. Potter County 4. Platte-Geddes 5. Castlewood.</span><br />
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The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-89464409317278738932013-12-09T16:57:00.000-08:002013-12-09T19:47:25.500-08:00South Dakota Prep Girls Basketball Preview for 2013-14 - Classes Wide Open<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d0Ir381hwCI/UqZsXP7dorI/AAAAAAAABLQ/WseNoonLa7k/s1600/basketball-981222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d0Ir381hwCI/UqZsXP7dorI/AAAAAAAABLQ/WseNoonLa7k/s320/basketball-981222.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">(<em>Editor's note - The SD Boys Basketball Preview will come out tomorrow - Tuesday, Dec. 10).</em></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Surprises always seem
to find their way onto the basketball floor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span data-mce-style=""><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Every time it appears something is so, it turns out it may not be. In sports, we often find that what appeared to be impossible is sometimes possible and may be just a game, a quarter or a play away. It only takes confidence and trust in one's self and team for the improbable to become probable. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span data-mce-style=""><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span data-mce-style=""><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">So, as I break down the prep scene in South Dakota girls basketball, please note that a surprise or two or three will be coming down the hoop pipeline.</span></span>Every time it appears
something is so, it turns out it is not. In sport, we find that overcoming the impossible
is sometimes only a game, a quarter or even a play away. So, as I break down
the prep scene in South Dakota girls basketball, please note that a surprise or
two or three are coming down the hoop pipeline.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A year ago, the South
Dakota girls basketball had its share of surprises. All three classes
crowned a first-time champion, including SF Lincoln which defeated
heavily favored Mitchell (51-36) for the Class AA title. Mitchell was the
preseason favorite and defending champion. But. Lincoln, picked third in
the preseason poll (KSFY-KWSN SD Broadcasters Poll) battled through injuries to
make the state tourney and pull off a shocker of the top-ranked
Kernels. Lincoln had appeared in 15 state tourneys and made three previous
championship games only to fall short. Not this time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In Class
A, Harrisburg, which was fourth in the preseason poll, lost just once to
O'Gorman, in route to the State A title. The Tigers were tested in the state
tourney but prevailed against Pine Ridge (64-49) in the championship.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In Class B,
two-time defending champion Summit appeared to be the sure thing - that is -
until Warner knocked off the Eagles in a classic battle, 48-44, in the
Region 1B final. Then, the Monarchs dispatched of three opponents, including
DeSmet (31-19) in the finals, to win their first-ever title. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">As 2013-14 is upon,
more surprises lay ahead in team's road to the championship. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ready. Set. Go.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></u></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Class AA – Girls</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></u></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Head of the Class: </span></u></b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Three teams appear to be at the head of this class,
including <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Sioux Falls </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Washington</b>,
22-3 a year ago and third at the AA Tourney. The Warriors, directed by head
coach Nate Malchow, have won 20 games in five of the last six seasons. They
return a boatload of talent, including senior point guard Ellie Benson (2nd
team All-State, 8.3 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 1.3 apg, 2.5 spg), 6-1 senior forward Sydney
Koel (8.4 ppg, 4.9 rpg), 5-8 junior guard Hannah Nieman (6.8 ppg, 1.6 rpg, 1.6
spg), 6-0 senior center/forward Michaela Mayer (7.2 ppg, 4.4 rpg), who will
play softball at Minnesota, and 5-10 sophomore Anna Goodhope (1.1 ppg),
Washington is seeking their sixth title (1906, 1980, 1981, 2008, 2010), but
haven’t won a crown since defeating Rapid City Stevens, 60-43, in 2010. Another
team seeking a sixth overall championship is <b>Mitchell,</b> which will be led
by the state’s top player in SDSU recruit Macy Miller (19.6 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 3.0
spg). Miller, whose father Alan is South Dakota’s all-time collegiate scorer
with 2,910 points, set the school's all-time single season scoring record
(493 points) and will be joined by 5-3 senior guard Torie Michael, 6-0 junior
forward Taylor Volesky and 6-0 senior forward Shelly Iberg. However, the loss
of SDSU signee and career scoring leader Kerry Young (1,760 points) along with
Kristin Sabers will be felt by Mitchell, which will again be directed
by head coach Wesley Morgan. Another team in the mix will be Chris Clark’s
<b>Sioux Falls Rooseve</b>lt team, which was 17-8 a year ago when they took
sixth in the AA Tourney. The Rough Riders return guard 5-5 senior guard Nicole
Hatcher and 5-7 senior guard Paige Mriden (11.4 ppg, AA All –Tourney Team)
along with 6-3 junior center Tagyn Larson, who will not play for a month due to
a stress fracture. Roosevelt, which has an 89-34 record over the past five
seasons, last won a title in 2006 with seven overall championships (2006, 2005,
2001, 2000, 1999, 1998, 1997).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Darkhorses</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">:
<b>Pierre Riggs</b>, 11-11 a year ago, returns 5-11 junior forward Sydney
Palmer (2nd team all-state) and 6-0 senior forward Kaitlyn Severyn, an
SDSU recruit. They will try and won their first title, third overall, since
1991. While <b>Sturgis Brown</b> was just 9-16 a year ago, they made the state
tourney, finishing 8<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>. The Scoopers will feature the 1-2 combo of
Augustana recruit Lydsey Prosser (5-8, Sr., G/F) and Kahlie Petersen (5-7, Sr.
F). A year ago, Prosser averaged 14.2 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 1.6 rpg (861 career
points) and is also an all-state soccer player. Also don’t be surprised if head
coach Kent Kolsrud’s <b>O’Gorman</b> squad makes some noise. They were 15-11 a
year ago and seventh at the AAA Tourney. The Knights, which won its only title
in 1995, is led by 6-2 junior center Jessica Meiras, an SDSU recruit. O’G
brings back most of its team from a year ago. <b>Harrisburg</b>, which won the
Class A title a year ago during a 25-1 run, could also be in the mix. Nick
Mayer has taken over as the new head girls coach and will look to a pair of
Class A all-state players to lead the way in 6-0 junior forward Morgan Beaner
(3rd team All-State, 12.0 ppg, 5.7 rpg) and 5-11 senior forward Hailie Halling
(2nd team all-state, 13.5 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 61% from the field).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<strong>Genz's Power Rankings</strong> - 1. SF Washington 2. SF Roosevelt 3. Mitchell 4. SF O'Gorman 5. Pierre.<br />
</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Class A - Girls</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Head
of the Class – </span></b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This
very well could be an 'Old West' shootout with Pine Ridge and St. Thomas More
as the leading contenders this year. However, with Harrisburg, gone,
a new champion will be crowned and they are many teams prepared to do
their own bidding for the championship. <b>Pine Ridge</b>, which will be
seeking a third title (1989, 2009), finished 21-2 a year ago, and are 96-21
since 2008. A year ago, they rolled up 1,653 points in 21 games (72.3 ppg) as
they finished second (64-49) to Harrisburg at the Class A Tourney. Pine Ridge,
which was also second in 2004 and third in 2010, has made 11 state tourney
appearances Directed by head coach Laura Big Crow, the Thorpes return 5-10,
junior forward/center Lynette Bettelyoun, 5-8 senior guard Santana White Dress,
5-5 sophomore guard Shaylene Richard and 5-7 sophomore guard Cortez Standing
Bear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A year ago, Pine Ridge scored 65
points or more in 18 games and held seven opponents to 33 points or less.
They had six games over 85 points and three over 100. They may be just as
explosive this season with the core of the team back. <b>St. Thomas More,</b>
which was ranked #1 for most of the 2012-13 season,<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>lost to Spearfish twice a year ago, the only setbacks in a 20-2
season. STM, directed by head coach Brandon Kandolin, should
again be one of the state’s top teams with the return of sharp-shooting 5-11
junior guard Alexys Swedlund (18.9 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 1.9 apg, 2.5 spg, 40 3's).
Also back will be 5-9 guard Madison Kirsch, 5-11 senior forward Moira Duffy and
several others. STM, who won the 2012 state title (first in school history) and
also made state in 2011, lost just one senior off last year’s squad. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
</div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Darkhorses: Sioux
Falls Christian</span></b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">,
17-9 a year ago and seventh at the State A Tourney, gave champion Harrisburg a
scare in the first round of the tournament. SFC Christian, 31-17 over the past
two years, has made two State A appearances, including the one a year ago along
with 1986. While they lost All-State forward Hayley McCarron, the Chargers,
directed by head coach Andrea Begeman, return several athletic performers
who led the volleyball team to the state meet. Those players include 5-11
senior Kristin Stern, 6-2 Megan Vegeldysk, and 5-6 senior guard Kara Koth. <b>Chamberlain,</b>
which was 21-4 a year ago and eighth at the State A Tourney, will be led by 5-9
senior guard Kennedy Wagner (3rd team all-state, 15.1 ppg, 4.6 apg, 3.9 rpg,
2.1 spg) and 5-6 senior guard Abbey Handel. Chamberlain, directed by head coach
Jeff Neuharth, is 33-14 over the last two seasons and has reached the
state tourney three times. Another team to pay attention to will be <b>Tri-Valley</b>,
which was 18-4 a year ago. While losing standout first-team all-state forward
Allison Cross, Tri-Valley, led by head coach Jeff Breitkreutz, returns 6-0
junior forward Sammy Kawowski, among several others. TV, 71-26 over the past
four seasons, won the State A Tourney in 2003. They also finished second twice
and third three times with a total of 10 state tournament appearances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>West Central,</b> 18-7 and fourth a year
ago at A Tourney, is led by 5-9 guard/forward Madison Kuehl (18 ppg, 8 rpg, 7
apg), 5-5 junior guard Brooklyn Ketcham and 5-9 forward Makenna MacDonald. WC,
led by head coach Joe Caffrey, is 47-18 over the past three seasons
and will look to add a third title to ones from 1999 and most recently,
2008. They return four of five starters, which makes them a seasoned team
ready to go. <b>Winner</b> is another team to watch as they return the
core of their lineup. The Warriors, 16-7 a year ago, lost to Pine Ridge, 67-59,
in the 2012-13 regional but return the core of their squad. Head Coach
Rona Volmer will look to 5-9 senior forward Katie Mathis (7.0 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 2.1
apg), 5-11 senior forward Cassidy Hanson (5-11, 11.2 ppg, 6.8 rpg) and 5-8
junior guard Kelsey Bertram (10.4 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 3.3 apg, 14 3's) to lead a
veteran team. Winner has made six state tourney appearances, mostly recently in
2011, but has not won a title. Another team that will make some noise is <b>Elk
Point-Jefferson</b>. The Huskies will be led by the presence of two-time Class A All-State forward Keely Bertram, a 5-9 standout, who will play collegiately at Black Hill State. He averaged 17.4 points (383 points in 2012-13) and 7.8 rebounds per game a year ago as EPJ was 14-8 but lost to Beresford. In her career, she has accumulated 1,052 points (16.4 ppg), 342 rebounds (5.3 rpg), 174 steals (2.7 spg) and 88 assists. Also back will be returning starters in 5-3 senior guard Hope Erickson, 5-11 senior forward Amy Zeller (5.0 ppg, 4.6 rpg) as well as returning letter winner, senior center Skylore Curry (6.2 ppg, 3.6 rpg). A big addition is 5-6 sophomore transfer guard McKenzie Mennenga, who averaged 13.9 ppg, 3.0 rpg, and 3.0 apg at Dakota Valley as a freshman a year ago. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Garamond;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Garamond;"><strong>Genz's Power Rankings</strong> -- 1. St. Thomas More 2. Pine Ridge 3. West Central 4. Elk Point-Jefferson 5. Winner.</span><br />
</div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Class B -- Girls</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Head
of the Class – </span></b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Warner
heads into the season as the favorite in Class B as the Monarchs return a pair
of all-state performers in Miranda Ristau and Ashley Rozell. But don’t blink
because this class is going to be competitive again. Sanborn
Central-Woonsocket, DeSmet and Sully Buttes are at least three teams who should
contend for all the marbles. Also watch out for Mitchell Christian and Hanson
and others. A year ago, <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Warner</b>
finished 25-1, ending the reign of Summit, which had won two straight titles
and three of the past four championships (2009, 2011, 2012). After falling to
Summit, 52-41 in January, Warner got a little revenge with a 48-44 win in the
Region 1B final. Warner, which is 64-7 over the last three seasons with
back-to-back 20-win seasons (20-3, 25-1), had lost to Summit, 51-44, in the
region final two years ago and seven of eight meetings over the past few years.
But those losses go into the rear-view mirror as head coach Stewart Bohle's
crew focuses on a 2nd straight title. At the 2012-13 State B, Warner
outscored three teams by a 162-100 margin to win their first-ever title. The
wins include a 47-38 win over Sully Buttes in the semifinals and a31-19 win
over DeSmet in the finals. A year ago, Warner outscored opponents by nearly a
two-to-one margin (1,226-to-655) and had 21 double digit wins. The Monarchs
have made three state tourney appearances, including 1996 and 1995, when they
finished third. Ristau (14.1 ppg, 7.9 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.0 bpg), a 6-2 senior
center,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>was 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> team Class B
All-State selection and is a Northern State recruit, while Rozell (13.5 ppg,
3.4 rpg, 3.0 apg), is a 5-10 junior guard/forward and 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup> team Class
B All-State honoree. They have three players over 6-0 on the front wall and if
there guard play is good again be aware Class B. Another team that will contend
and be a handful for opponents is <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Sanborn
Central/Woonsocket</b>, 24-2 a year ago and 46-4 over the past two seasons with
head coach Tim McClain. SC-Woonsocket has finished 5<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> and fourth in
consecutive Class B Tourneys. Led by 6-1 forward Shelby Selland, an Augustana
recruit, who was all-state and named to the All-Tournament Team, SC-Woonsocket
figures to be one of the best teams this year. In 2012-13, they averaged 64.5
ppg, 29.4 rpg, 13.8 spg and hit 77 three-point shots.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Selland averaged 17 ppg, 6.7 rpg, and 1.9
steals and now has 1,120 points with 614 rebounds in career. She is joined by
6-1 sophomore Myah Selland (9.8 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 2.5 apg), 6-0 junior Marissa
Weber (9.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 2.3 apg), 5-10 senior forward Morgan Selland (5.0 ppg,
2.1 rpg) and 5-10 senior forward Rachel Selland (6.4 ppg, 4.3 rpg) who was also
named to the all-state tourney squad. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Sully
Buttes</b>, which was 21-5 and fourth at the 2013 State B, scored over 1,500
points a year ago with a victory margin of nearly 31 points, With nearly the
entire starting lineup back in the fold, the Chargers, directed by head coach
Mark Senftner, should contend as they look for an eighth trip to the State
B since 2004. Leading the way for Sully Buttes will be 5-10 senior forward
Karlea Stahl (11.5 ppg, 8.0 rpg, 2.5 spg), 5-7 senior guard Remi Wientjes (12
ppg, 4.5 rpg, 4.0 apg, 2.5 spg) and freshman Chloe Lamb (11.1 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 4.5
apg, 3.0 spg), who excelled as an 8<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> grader a year ago. It would be
wise to also keep an eye on <b>DeSmet</b>, which was second a year ago as the
Bulldogs rolled to a 24-2 season. DeSmet, which held 10 opponents less than 30
points, scored over 1,300 points with 18 wins by double digits. The Bulldogs
made their second appearance in the state tournament, finishing third in 1994.
DeSmet will return 5-7 senior forward Grayson Gruenhagen (10 ppg, 7.0 rpg), who
will play at Dakota Wesleyan; 5-9 junior guard Rylie Os</span><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">thus (6.3 ppg, 3.0 rpg,
3.0 spg) and 5-5 senior guard Taylor Schoenfelder (6.3 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 3.0 spg) as
well as 6-1 senior center Kelsey Poppen (5.0 ppg) and 5-7 junior guard Kelli
Aughenbaugh (5.2 ppg, 2.0 rpg).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Darkhorses</span></b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> – <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Hanson</b>,
which was 23-3 a year ago and third at the State B, will again with a team to
keep an eye on. Coach Jim Bridge, who has 437 career wins, will be led by the
return senior Leah Marsh (5.5 ppg, 2.6 rpg) along with sophomore phenom Kynedi
Cheeseman (12.9 ppg, 3.7 rpg, and 3.4 spg). <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mitchell Christian</b>, which was 13-8 a year ago, will be another team
to keep a close eye on. They return standout 5-6 senior guard Alexa Van
Laecken, who has averaged nearly 14 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals
per game over the past two seasons. Another key player will be third-team
all-state forward Cassidy Graham (14 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 1.5 apg), who has
transferred to Mitchell Christian from Hanson. In addition, Mitchell Christian,
which won a state title in 2006 and made a state tourney appearance in 2011,
also return 5-8 forward sophomore Emily Reynen and 5-10 freshman forward
Abbie Reynen.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong>Genz's Power Rankings</strong> -- 1. Sully Buttes 2. Warner 3. SC-Woonsocket 4. DeSmet 5. Mitchell Christian</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-70911916627064955512013-09-03T16:42:00.001-07:002013-09-03T17:10:55.768-07:00Retiring South Dakota BB Coach Dave Boots Always Focused on Moving Forward<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";"><em>Editor's Note</em> - <em>Here is a story I wrote a little over a year ago for RedEye Sports on retiring USD head men's basketball coach Dave Boots. He announced he was leaving the USD program today. Good luck coach Boots, the Coyote Nation thanks you for 25 years of commitment and dedication. You're a Hall of Famer. In this blog post, I have updated some of the numbers relating to his wins and losses and time at USD.</em></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";"></span><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">The
charismatic baseball pitcher Satchel Paige once said “don’t look back,
something might be gaining on you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">It
is a perspective, perhaps, of which University of South Dakota head men’s
basketball coach Dave Boots can relate. During his 25-year coaching tenure,
Boots has never looked back. Since the day he was named the USD’s 15<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
head basketball coach 25 years ago, Boots has moved forward. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">He
hasn’t been concerned about leaving a legacy, despite putting together an incredible streak of
23 consecutive winning seasons which ended two years ago. In developing the Coyote program, he has always
kept his focus straight ahead.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“We
don’t look back. The most important day is today or tomorrow,” he said. “We are
trying to build something that people will enjoy - something (program) that the
USD community will be proud of.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Boots
has directed a Coyote program, once mired in losing, to its most successful
period in school history. He has compiled the most wins in school history, 503-235,
or a winning percentage of .681. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">During
his tenure, Boots has led USD to 16 20-win seasons and produced 14 of the 15
best seasons (terms of wins and losses) in school history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Prior to Boots’ arrival just one team, the
1958 national championship team under Dwane Clodfelter, had won 20 games
(22-5). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Boots’
Coyotes have had two Elite Eight appearances (1992-93, 1993-94), seven
conference titles, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and 10 NCAA DII
playoff appearances (five straight from 2003-08), the school’s first NCAA
postseason game (CollegeInsiders.com Tournament) and wins over Division I teams
Wyoming and Loyola Maramount, as well as close calls vs. NCAA tournament teams,
Cornell and Morehead State. Named a conference coach of the year seven times, Boots
has had 22 players earn Academic All Conference honors, 39 named all-league, and
three selected All-American, including one (Turner Troholz) DII National Player
of the Year.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">He
faced a big challenge when he took over the job in 1988. It was a program that
had gone 40-100 in the previous five seasons. Day-by-day, he focused on what
was needed for the program to grow. In his first season, the Coyotes produced
winning basketball and haven’t stopped since. Now, he is navigating USD’s foray
into Division 1.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“It
is going to take us a little longer to get to some of the things we need to do
at this level,” noted Boots. “It isn’t something you can just turn around and
do. It takes you time to get your program up where it can be a competitive DI
program.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Attaining
success, says Boots, requires buy-in by everyone involved in the program, from
the coaching staff to the players. They have to be passionate and dedicated. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“I
have had incredibly good assistant coaches, like Joey James and Chris Kassin
now, and all the way through,” he said. “I have been very fortunate that some
of them played for me. That is one of the most enjoyable things I have had
here, to watch guys play here, become coaches for us and then move on,” said
Boots, noting that in 23 years, he has had 25 assistants or players move on to
make their own way in coaching. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“It
is really pleasing that they are part of us and remain part of us. The coaches
in the NBA D League All Star Game this year were Nate Tibbetts and Nick Nurse,
a former player and former assistant. They are both great guys who have great
futures. To see Shane Murphy, John Hemenway and others do what they are doing
is special. To see (former player) Ben Ries do what he is doing at Norfolk is
tremendously pleasing. You see them grow, have families and become good
fathers.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">He
is appreciative of dedicated student-athletes who have come in and made a
commitment on and off the court. “Even as we move up, we still believe we need
to get some of those same type of kids we have been getting<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>– their character, their desire to get a
degree, go to class, be good citizen, all that. That always has to be the main
focus.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Boots’
perspective on thinking for today and tomorrow and not yesterday continues to
provide the program with positive direction. Yet, every day brings a fresh
challenge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“We
have certainly had our bumps in the road during this transition and it is going
to get tougher than it has been as we move into the Summit League.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a lot left to be done. We do not kid
ourselves. Believe me. We know what has to be done, how much work it is going
to take, how much luck we are going to have to have in it, patience. There are
no quick fixes,” he said. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">While
he hones in on what lies ahead, Coach Boots also knows that 23 years at USD has
included many special moments and many more await time and circumstance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">One
of the early moments recalled by Boots was South Dakota’s win over North Dakota
in the NCC Postseason Tournament at Sioux Falls in the 1989-90 season. The
Coyotes, who finished 22-10 and earned its first NCAA Tournament appearance
since 1971-72, upended a North Dakota team ranked #1 in the country in the tournament
semifinals, 75-73. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“That
was just our second year here,” recalled Boots. “We had Mike Graves, Tim Hatchett
and Sam Goodhope.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">USD
trailed 41-35 at halftime but rallied to tie the game at 64-64 with 6:08 to
play. With seven seconds left, USD’s Brad Fifield hit a game-tying jump shot to
force overtime. Then, Hatchett, who along with Goodhope, both scored 20 points,
hit a jumper to provide USD with its first lead of the game. Later in OT, Fifield
hit a short jumper with a minute to play to break the tie as USD advanced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">The
next night USD defeated Mankato State, 69-59, to win the tourney title and earn
an NCAA berth. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We were trying to
establish our program – early in that stage -- and that (UND game) was a really
big win for us,” said Boots.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Another
significant victory was USD’s 66-64 regional final conquest of UND in 1992-93.
Despite winning the league, USD was forced to go on the road.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“The
game went back and forth and once again we had a really good team with Chris
Jones, (Randy) Rosenquist and (Troy) Terronez, (Shane) Murphy, Mark Andres,
John Brenegan, and Mike Kloth. Somehow we got that game into overtime and won
it with a basket by Rosenquist with five or six seconds to go,” said Boots,
whose team finished 25-5 and 16-2 in the NCC.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">In
the game, USD led, 41-35, before UND had a 22-11 run that produced a 57-52
lead. With 1:26 to go, Murphy hit a three-point shot to tie the game. Then
Rosenquist hit arguably the biggest shot of his career to send South Dakota to
the Elite Eight for the first time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";"></span><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Another
game that sticks with Boots is the 100-96 triple-overtime loss to New Hampshire
in the first round of the Elite Eight that same season. “It was a game we
thought we had in hand or were in position to win,” said Boots, noting that USD
led by four with a minute to go and had possession of the ball. “We didn’t make
some plays that we need to make, like not getting a stop when we needed to,”
said Boots. “That one is always going to be with us.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Another
important game was the 61-58 verdict over North Dakota State in the 1993-94
regional final at the DakotaDome. It was the first time USD had hosted a
regional final at the Dome. NDSU had beaten USD, 82-63, late in the season,
which forced USD to defeat North Dakota (80-71) the next night to win the
conference title outright for the second straight season. The Coyotes, which
finished 24-5, were dominating the league until losing star forward Chris Jones
to injury with 10 games left in the season. Jones was hurt during pre-game
warm-ups prior to an 88-81 win over SDSU in Brookings. Following that game, USD
scored 100 points in four consecutive wins. However, the loss of Jones was a
big blow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“He
was a big loss for us because he was certainly a talented player, our leading
scorer, someone in the lineup who made everyone better. So, we were a little
shorthanded to finish that year,” said Boots. “Those kids really rose to the
occasion and won the league and the regional,” he said. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">While
USD did not win a national title during that unforgettable two-season run, the
team had an overall record of 49-11, including a dominating 31-5 mark in NCC
play.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Boots
also remembers USD’s heart-breaking 77-76 double overtime loss to UND in the
Great West Conference Tournament finals last March. USD, which finished 18-15 on
the season, had an up and down season but had upset the top-seeded Utah Valley
State to get into position for its second straight league title. Then they fell
behind UND late and rallied. “We made some good tough plays to get it into
overtime and then we couldn’t convert simple plays which ended up costing us
dearly,” said Boots. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“I
can’t remember them all,” said Boots of all the memorable games and moments his
teams experienced while he has directed the basketball ship. “We had a lot of
great games with SDSU and others,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Obviously,
Boots, who has coached 680 games at the U, can’t recall details of every big game,
although some plays forever stay imprinted in the memory bank. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">One
such moment was orchestrated by USD guards Luke Tibbetts and Josh Mueller in a
dramatic 79-78 win over North Dakota at the DakotaDome in the 2002-03 season. In
a tight contest, UND hit a shot with just four-tenths of a second to play.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“Down
two, Luke Tibbetts ran across the baseline threw back across his body all the
way to the opposite corner to Mueller. We set up a back screen for him and he
caught it, and as he is turning, threw it up and it went in,” said Boots.
“There were a lot of people who had already left the game and I am not sure
everyone in attendance that night saw the play.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">According
to Boots, those games and moments are really what comprise tradition. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“Games
are part of their (USD players) lives,” he said. “Even though this (playing at
USD) is a short part of their life, it is something that shapes them. I look at
tradition that way a lot more than accomplishments (wins and losses),” he said.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 6pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Some of those games stay with those kids a
long time. I know they stay with coaches a long time. It shapes them a little
bit, it helps them deal with some of the tough times they might have down the
road. Not everything goes your way, so you have to be able to deal with the
tough times as well and survive them, learn from them,” said Boots, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">And,
perhaps, they find through their venerable coach, that moving ahead, not
looking back, is the right step.<o:p></o:p></span>The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-54909243698749043672013-05-10T11:50:00.003-07:002013-05-10T19:19:32.449-07:00You Make the CallI heard a new one this morning. MLB writer Peter Gammons reported that umpire Angel Hernandez may have refused to overturn a decision in the Cleveland-Oakland baseball game (remember the HR by Adam Rosales that wasn't) because he doesn't believe instant replay has a place in baseball.<br />
<br />
It seems to me that instead of protesting about the way things should be, Hernandez should pay attention to what is.<br />
<br />
Whether it is Angel Hernandez in baseball, Joey Crawford in basketball, Ed Hochuli in the NFL or any of the hundreds involved in professional sports, officials have a difficult assignment. Often it is said that if officials are not part of the conversation in a game's broadcast then they are doing their jobs. A little harsh but true.<br />
<br />
I have talked often with former official and supervisor of officials Colin Kapitan and visited with official Brad Coleman at the Summit League Basketball Championships. The commitment that men and women make to do this important segment in sports should never be questioned. They try to do the best they can. Sometimes doing their best means they will make a wrong decision.<br />
<br />
It is easy for fans to call for their heads when decisions are wrong. But I think we know that some calls are going to be wrong. 90 percent of the calls are right so give credit where it is due. In full disclosure, I have yelled at my share of officials (sometimes loudly). Yet, for all of my anguish over some calls, I will be the first to agree that the human element has a place in the game. <br />
<br />
But, Angel, come on, you were wrong and if you made the decision to "not overturn" a call because of your misgivings surrounding instant relay, then sir, you need a suspension to think about it.<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong, I believe officials need to have a seat at the table about rule interpretations, including handling instant replay. They have the right to hold their opinions and to speak out, just like us media types and fans. But, if they to do it under the cloak of a bad judgment, they are wrong and acting irresponsibly.<br />
<br />
It seems to me the officiating at the professional level is getting worse by the season. I believe that NBA officiating may make more bad calls than baseball or the NFL, if that is possible. Take for example nine technical handed out in the Chicago/Miami blowout the other night. Two players (Joakim Noah and Taj Gibson, both of the Bulls) were sent to the showers early. Traveling is overlooked and phantom fouls are a real part of every game. A team with momentum gets one or two of these mystery calls during a course of a run. Major League Baseball is right there with the NBA. Twins fans remember the horrible call in the playoffs that robbed Joe Mauer of a hit. Tigers fans still have problems with Jim Joyce's wrong decision on Armando Gallaraga's perfect game when he missed an obvious call at first base. Those were a couple of years ago. How about, the misinterpretation of the rules in the Astros/Angels game, one night after the Cleveland/Oakland HR debacle. In that game, Houston manager Bo Porter was allowed to replace a pitcher who came into the game in relief but didn't deliver a pitch. No, the guy didn't have an injury. It was a clear violation as pointed out by Angels' manager Mike Sciocia. Then, the HR that wasn't in the Oakland/Cleveland game - any reasonable, objective view of that play required an overturn from a double to a HR. It seems every night we are seeing really bad calls, sometimes involving balls and strikes call at home plate. Several times early this season, teams were hurt by home plate umps make strike/ball calls that were horrendous..<br />
<br />
I think we understand that in light of our information age gone nuts with smart phones and more, it makes it very difficult to officiate sports. When you break things down frame by frame, as we see on MLB TV, NFL Network. TBS, Fox Sports or whomever is carrying a game, it is easy to see why officiating is often held to an unreasonable standard. But, that is their job. Our officials know what is required and that is to interpret the rules objectively and when they see a miscall, they need to overturn it.<br />
<br />
Yet, it seems to me that some of our officiating brethren are getting more arrogant and confrontational. They know they are on national TV and they don't want to be embarrassed. Sorry guys that comes with the officiating process. It should never be in the cards for the officials to call out a player or manager. <br />
<br />
On the other hand, I do believe they need to stand firm on calls. They can't be intimidated into decisions.<br />
<br />
All calls made in a game impact the bottom-line of a team, a franchise, a fan base one way or the other.<br />
<br />
So, should MLB or the NFL or any of the professional sports overturn decisions and create a situation when the game will be replayed from a certain point? That is a tough call. But, something that needs to be considered as an option when atrocious calls and decisions are made and cost a team the opportunity to win a game.<br />
<br />
The message from league offices can't simply be "the officials just made a bad judgment." That doesn't work but is the case time and again. Determinations on proper officiating and subsequent actions need to be held to a high standard. Lackadaisical or "let's not overreact because this is human judgment," should not the answers and surely can't be accepted by players, coaches fan bases and media.<br />
<br />
I have heard the word "accountability" a lot lately. I keep wondering if the leaders in the respective sport under that that means. <br />
<br />
I think we all know that a little common sense and unbiased observation will lead us down the right path. When there are grotesque decisions, then the league's in the respective sports need to step up and provide some form of penalty on the officials. It appears we are seeing more of that lately. I think it is coming down to competence as Danny Knobler of CBS Sports writes: <a href="http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/blog/danny-knobler/22225809/mlbs-umpiring-problem-is-an-issue-of-competence-and-credibility">http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/blog/danny-knobler/22225809/mlbs-umpiring-problem-is-an-issue-of-competence-and-credibility</a><br />
<br />
My answer is that officials on the field should not be making an overruling judgment. I believe that the organizations ruling the professional sports need to put into place a non-partisan crew whose sole job is to evaluate decisions on the field or court when necessary. No, not every call can be changed. We have to accept that some judgment calls are bang, bang plays and how someone views a play should never depends on a team's colors or time or game situation.<br />
<br />
Regardless, it is time to take some serious action. Accountability shouldn't be a word that is hard to interpret in officiating athletics. Here is the definition: "The obligation of an individual or organization to account for its activities, accept responsibility for them, and to disclose the results in a transparent manner."<br />
<br />
All eyes, especially among fans and media, are fixed on your decision on how to fix this officiating mess. I think the game's integrity hinges on that determination. Placing accountability on officials for their actions makes them responsible and ensures that competence is a defining characteristic for those in the black and white.The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-51087596463443938352013-04-15T19:13:00.000-07:002013-04-17T16:51:15.651-07:00WIth 36 Straight Wins and 3 Titles, Can Canistota Keep It Going?The 2012 prep football season is well behind us and the 2013 campaign still months away, yet discussion on prep football has started to unwind with the hiring of new coaches, like Chad Stadem at Sioux Falls Washington High School and others. In addition, dialogue continues on the new controversial seven class system that goes into effect when the season begins in August.<br />
<br />
As other prep football storylines begin to unfold, one that is front and center is the 36-game winning streak by the 9A Canistota Hawks. Can they win a fourth straight 9-man title? <br />
<br />
It is a program that suffered heavy graduation losses. Yet, Canistota has overcome the loss of talented players in each of the past three seasons, although probably not to the degree of this past season.<br />
<br />
<strong>Will Canistota Do It Again?</strong><br />
<br />
Canistota head football coach Lenny Schroeder preaches defense, execution and leadership. Over a three-year period, his Hawks players have listened and carried out the plan at the highest level in South Dakota 9-man prep football ranks.<br />
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Since breaking away from a co-op with Bridgewater after the 2009 season, the Hawks have become one of the state's all-time elite 9-man squads. Canistota has recorded three straight 12-0 seasons, building a 36-game winning streak, which ranks second best all-time (Freeman, 46 straight wins in 1995-99).<br />
<br />
After going 12-0 and winning the school's first Class B crown in 2010, Canistota lost a group of standouts, led by all-state performers Jed Olson (RB) and Sam Jolley. While those losses, as well as players like Nic Gorder, were costly, the Canistota team reloaded and kept on winning. The Hawks put together another unbeaten, 12-0 campaign in 2011. Same result with the team copping a first-ever Class A title. Now after a third straight 12-0 campaign and a second straight Class A crown, the Hawks are setting their sites on continuing their winning ways. A fourth straight title will be a difficult task but the expectations are high in the small eastern South Dakota town. </div>
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So, how dominant has Canistota been in the 9-man ranks?<br />
<br />
The point differential both
in-season and in the playoffs spells out the power of this squad. In the
playoffs, they have a fashioned a three-year combined 658-to-28 points advantage, including
212-to-14 in the 2012 season. This squad has rolled to 66-0, 66-6 and 52-8 in
9-man championship games at the DakotaDome. <br />
<br />
In fact, the team has allowed just two TDs in three title games with only the second quarter score by Warner in 2012 coming when Canistota's first unit was on the field. The Hawks had a 25-quarter shutout streak ended in 2011 when Wall scored a late TD.<br />
<br />
In the three seasons, the
Hawks have compiled 250 TDs (88, 77, 85) with 1,843 points (627, 2010; 620,
2011; 596, 2012) while allowing just 202 (38, 2010; 61, 2011; 103, 2012) for a
51.19 to 5.6 points edge. In 9A competition, they have won 19-of-24 games by 42
points or more. <br />
<br />
This squad was so dominant that19 games
ended early by mercy rule (SDHSAA rule) with 10 at halftime, six in the third quarter and three in the
fourth quarter. Roughly that amounts to 29 quarters or seven games. If those games played out and Canistota held to its average points per game, that would mean an additional 358 points. In other words, that 1,843 points would become 2,201 points. <br />
<br />
Canistota
has accumulated 13,617 yards (7.8 miles) in total offense on 1,328 plays or
10.25 yards per play. Of that total, 10,328 have come through rushing yards,
including a season-high of 3,644 in 2010. Overall, Canistota has 1,161 rushes or an average of 8.90 yards per carry. <br />
<br />
The Hawks' quarterbacks have completed 157-of-268 passes for 3,289
yards, which breaks out to 12.27 yards per pass and 20.94 yards per completion.
<br />
<br />
On defense, this squad has recorded 55 sacks, including 30 this past
season when Jason Van Winkle had 14. They also forced 89 turnovers, including
45 interceptions and 44 fumble recoveries. In 2012, they had 27 turnovers with
29 in 2011 and 33 in 2010. Canistota has recorded 19 shutouts,
including eight in 2011, seven in 2010 and four this past season. <br />
<br />
To get a handle on the year-by-year totals, check out the stats below.<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Year-by-Year breakdown</u> -</strong> <br />
<strong>2010</strong> - 627 points, 38 allowed. Avg. 52.3-to-3.17 ppg.<br />
<strong>Playoff Scoring</strong> -- 250-to-8<br />
<strong>Overall Scoring</strong> -- 88 TDs, 86 conversions, 3 safeties, 6 PATs<br />
<strong>Rushing yards</strong> -- 384 att., 3644 yards, 303.7 average per game, 9.49 yards per carry<br />
<strong>Passing yards</strong> -- 993 yards, 82.8 yards per game, 19 TDs, 3 interceptions<br />
<strong>Key players</strong> -- <em>Jed Olson</em>, 157 att., 1,751 yards rushing, 39 total TDs) (35 by rush, 145.9 yards per game, 11.15 average per carry. 10 games over 100; two over 200 (234, 215) and 1,822 total yards. Recorded nine games with three TDs or more, including five or four TDs or more and one with six TDs. Olson recorded 63 tackles, 3 interceptions and 4 fumble recoveries. <em>Sam Jolley</em>, 38-of-67 for 926 yards passing; 57 carries for 478 yards for seven TDs, including 140 yards rushing. <em>Troy Hofer</em>, 97 carries for 812 yards and 12 total TDs with 89 tackles, 4 TFLs and five sacks. <em>Trevor Schroeder</em>, 21 rec., 531 yards, 13 total TDs, 52 tackles, 8.5 TFLs, 6 sacks; <em>Nic Gorder</em>, 64 tackles, 26 solos, 6 TFLs and five sacks.<br />
<strong>Team Notes</strong>: Canistota outscored opponents, 250-to-8 in the playoffs, including a 66-0 win over Hitchcock-Tulare in the state title game (Class B). It was a season when they went over 50 points<br />
nine times and three over 60. In the final five games of the season, they scored at least 50 points. <br />
<br />
<strong>2011</strong> - 620 points, 61 points allowed. Avg. 51.67-to-5.08 ppg.<br />
<strong>Playoff Scoring</strong> -- 216-to-6<br />
<strong>Overall Scoring</strong> -- 77 TDs, 78 conversions, 2 safeties, 5 PATs<br />
<strong>Rushing yards</strong> -- 398 att., 3,539 yards, 294.9 average per game, 8.89 yards per carry<br />
<strong>Passing yards</strong> -- 948 yards, 79.0 yards per game, 19 TDs, 2 interceptions<br />
<strong>Key players</strong> -- <em>Cody Bunger</em>, 52-of-89 for 948 yards passing with 19 TDs and one interception; 82 carries for 1,192 yards, 16 TDs (37 total TDs); <em>Alex Robertson</em>, 144 carries for 1,022 yards and 16 TDs (12 by rush), 46 tackles, four interceptions; <em>Nick Hofer</em>, 25 carries for 297 yards and six TDs with two receptions for 75 yards and a TD; <em>Jason Van Winkle</em>, 98 tackles, 11 TFLs; <em>Eric Tieszen</em>, 124 tackles, 2 fumble recoveries.<br />
<strong>Notes</strong> -- Except for a 34-26 win over Bridgewater-Emery/Ethan, Canistota outscored every team by at least 37 points. Hawks won 10-of-12 games by margin of 42 points or more. They scored 50 or more points six times, including defeating Wall, 66-6, as part of a 216-to-6 points advantage in the playoffs.<br />
<strong> </strong><br />
<strong>2012</strong> - 596 points, 103 allowed. Avg. 49.7-to-8.58 ppg<br />
<strong>Playoff Scoring</strong> -- 212-to-14.<br />
<strong>Overall Scoring</strong> -- 85 TDs (58 by rush, 20 by pass), 82 conversions, 1 safety, 4 PATs<br />
<strong>Rushing yards</strong> -- 379 att., 3,145 yards, 262.1average per game, 8.39 yards per carry<br />
<strong>Passing yards</strong> -- 1,348 yards, 112.3 yards per game, 20 TDs, 4 interceptions<br />
<strong>Key players</strong> -- <em>Cody Bunger</em>, 59-93, 1,267 passing yards, 19 TDs, 4 int.; 107-645-17 TDs rushing; 56 tackles, 7 interceptions; <em>Alex Robertson</em>, 125 carries for 1,144 yards, 9.15 avg., per carry and 19 TDs, 55 tackles, 2 sacks, three interceptions, fumble recovery; <em>Nick Hofer</em>, 35 att., 446 yards, (12.74 avg), 7 TDs, 25 rec., 557 yards, 7 TDs; <em>Boone DeKramer</em>, 16 rec., 302 yards, 7 TDs, 108 tackles, 3 fumble recoveries, interception; <em>Jason Van Winkle</em>, 119 tackles, 14 sacks; <em>Eric Tieszen</em>, 90 att., 797 yards, 13 TDs; 108 tackles, 5 TFLs, two interceptions.<br />
<strong>Notes</strong> -- Canistota recorded nine wins with at least 50 points scored (three over 60), including a three-year high of 74 points in a win over Marion on 10/12/12. The Hawks, which recorded four shutouts, ended the season with six straight games of 50 points or better, including a 52-8 win over unbeaten Warner in the Class A title game. <br />
<br />
<strong>So, do they keep it going?</strong><br />
Canistota needs 10 wins to tie Freeman's record and 11 for the all-time mark. With the heavy graduation losses, Schroeder and his team faces a major challenge.<br />
<br />
Still, this is a team that has adjusted in previous campaign. It is a team with plenty of young talent, including a few brothers of past stars on Canistota. The squad will be led by Nick Hofer, who had seven
receptions for 195 yards in the 2012 title game. Hofer has accumulated 70 carries for 885 yards and 16 TDs and 27 receptions for 632 yards and eight TDs over three seasons. As such, he has accounted for 1,517 yards and 24 TDs and will be counted on heavily. Shay Jolley will be the likely quarterback, with the Hawks hoping he has follow his brother Sam's talents behind center. Others taking on leading roles will be Jerad Nielsen (7 att., 74 yards, 2 TDs, 8 tackles), Carson Hofer (10 tackles, 24 yards rushing) and Colton Gorder (10 tackles).<br />
<br />
Can they win another 9A title? Until, they are beaten, this team will believe it can keep winning championships. Led by Schroeder, one of the state's top coaches, who knows? Don't count them out.</div>
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The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-83176150973677958822013-04-12T19:49:00.003-07:002013-04-13T06:44:24.183-07:00My View on Greinke-Quentin MLB Brawl When a batter charges the mound in a game between last place teams, does anyone really notice? Is it a little like a tree falling in a forest; does anyone really hear it?<br />
<br />
Is that situation, most often it serves as fodder for ESPN coverage, and probably a snide remark or two from one of the anchors. Baseball jumps in and throws a 5-game suspension or maybe 8-game suspension to players involved and then it is over.<br />
<br />
So, when a baseball brawl involves a team, predicted to be a World Series contender (not by me), and a $147 million free agent signee and former Cy Young Award winner who gets hurt, does that change things? To some, I believe it does. For me, situations are situations and should be treated with balance. Injury or no injury, the determination of a penalty should be made based on what happened and not according to whose name, team or player, is on the jersey.<br />
<br />
All day, I have heard the storyline involving the actions of Carlos Quentin (.253 BA, 137 HRs) of San Diego against Zack Greinke of the Los Angeles Dodgers (91-78, 3.77 era). If you didn't hear (don't know how that would be possible) but if so, Quentin, who has been hit by a pitch 116 times, was hit for the second time in three games by an LA pitcher. He says Greinke was throwing at him. Greinke denies it. <br />
<br />
Remember, that these two players have a history. Quentin played for the White Sox and Greinke came up with the Royals. During that period a few years ago, Quentin was hit a few times by Greinke.<br />
<br />
Back to Thursday night's game, I don't believe it was intentional by Greinke. Why would Greinke throw at Quentin in a game in a 2-1 game with a 3-2 count in the sixth inning. I don't know, just my impression.<br />
<br />
After being hit, Quentin took a step toward the mound, appeared to stop, and then rushed the mound after some venom, if appears, was spewed from Greinke's craw.<br />
<br />
As a result, a bench clearing brawl occurred between San Diego and LA. After all was said and done, Greinke had suffered a fractured collar bone and is lost for 6-8 weeks. Quentin, among others ,was tossed from a game won by the Dodgers, 3-2. Now Quentin, who is a plate hugger, is being criticized as some type of baseball ogre/moron for his actions. Greinke, who isn't averse to throwing out trash talk, is being treated as a victim.<br />
<br />
Radio talk show guys like Adam Schein of Mad Dog Radio (on Sirius) have been letting us know what the punishment should be. Schein suggested 30 games for Quentin. Others, like Chris Russo of Mad Dog Radio, said 10 is what likely would be the penalty. Harold Reynolds of MLB TV suggested somewhere between 5-7 while Bryan Kenny of MLB TV said more harsh punishment was needed, kind of jumping on Schein's penalty suggestion of 30 games MLB's Kevin Millar, a former player, sided with the 5-10 game penalty.<br />
<br />
Where do I sit? I absolutely believe that Quentin will be suspended, probably in that 7-8 game range. I think he should be hit with a five-game suspension. Greinke would generally get a three-game suspension but likely will be let off the hook because of injury. Others involved like Matt Kemp will get suspensions ranging from 1-3 games..<br />
<br />
As I deliberate my own thoughts on it, I keep wondering is this a much ado about nothing? OK, it was something, Greinke was hurt, but I believe as much his own doing as Quentin. He did not back down and threw a shoulder into the 240-pound Quentin as the San Diego slugger rushed him. Tough-minded, OK. Smart, no way.<br />
<br />
As I watched the play, I could see that a little bad blood was boiling between the two players.<br />
<br />
Did Quentin overreact? Yes. But, I think he was fueled into rage after Greinke's said something. I don't know what was said but Quentin reacted. Quentin should have just taken his base but he didn't.<br />
<br />
Baseball is full of hot heads like Quentin. And when MLB's Bryan Kenny advocates legislating out the batter leaving the box to charge the mound, he seems to be going a bit far. This doesn't happen every night. Baseball is different than other sports I think baseball is just fine. <br />
<br />
Yes, injuries come from these hot-headed incidents. This isn't the first, nor will it be the last. As I said earlier, MLB should treat these situations one-by-one. And, MLB's Joe Torre, the former Yankees and Dodgers manager, shouldn't stand up for his former coach Don Mattingly, now the Dodgers' manager. Torre needs to recuse himself and just let Joe Gariogiola Jr., do his job in ruling about on-field actions. Treat this as has been other similar type situations.<br />
<br />
There have been incidents in baseball for a long-time. More are coming.<br />
<br />
Let's not chop down a trusty old tree over a splintered branch.The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-34410273089954176162013-04-07T13:04:00.002-07:002013-04-07T15:57:13.440-07:00Hod, Goodbye My FriendTears filled my eyes on Wednesday.<br />
<br />
When I heard that a dear friend, Howard "Hod" Nielsen, had died, it struck me pretty hard. I had not seen Hod in awhile which further exasperated my feelings.<br />
<br />
As I read memorials this week about Hod, his story and who he was poured out in newspaper columns, and social media circles. Each of these tributes, including Randy Dockendorf of the Yankton Press and Dakotan, Mick Garry of the Argus Leader, Kelly Hertz of the Yankton Press and Dakotan and James Cimburek of the Yankton Press and Dakotan brought out different stories and perspectives. All of them showcased the respect, honor and integrity ingrained in one of Yankton's favorite sons.<br />
<br />
I never met Hod until he was about 58 years old - 35 years ago. From that day forward, we were friends, pure and simple. <br />
<br />
My first meeting with Hod occurred in 1988 while I was USD's media relations director. As such, I sometimes ventured over to visit another friend and SID at the time - Mike Mahon (later Drake SID and Coyote Sports Hall of Fame inductee). This occasion I was discussing with Mike about filling the sports pages of the South Dakotan, USD's alumni publication. While there, Mike told me that Hod Nielsen of the Yankton Press and Dakotan was going to stop by. I knew of this guy - I read Hod's column every week. Full of history and perspective, his words shined about prep or collegiate sports or some remarkable achievement in South Dakota's unique sports history. But, I had not met him.<br />
<br />
That afternoon, Mahon told me a little about Nielsen, a 1949 USD graduate and former Coyote football player in the 1940s (all 140 pounds of him). He had been a World War II photo reconnaissance pilot in World War II. Nielsen, who would be referenced by another Yankton son, Tom Brokaw in his book, "The Greatest Generation," flew a stripped down and unarmed P-38 over occupied Europe during WWII. Unlike his brother, Bob,, Hod made it home, nearly miraculously as he was among just seven of 27 crew members to survive the rigors of that war. He was decorated with the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with oak leaf cluster, and a President Unit Citation. He achieved the rank of Captain. A hero to his core.<br />
<br />
On that day, we didn't talked about World War II - fact is - we rarely spoke of that time. We talked about something USD- oriented and then laughed a bit. From that day, I felt a connection to Hod.<br />
<br />
Every ensuing time I saw Hod, he always had a smile, a story to tell, a joke to make or an insight that was almost always on point. I always relished our time together. <br />
<br />
From what I know about him, Hod Nielsen did a lot in 92 years of life. Sports editor and writer at the Press and Dakotan for more than 40 years, his column, "Play-by-Play," was part of the P&D for more than 40 years, well after retirement. Nielsen was also a radio guy with a career that began in the 1950. He did great work at KYNT-AM, including working at numerous South Dakota basketball tournaments. Hod became the voice of the Yankton Bucks and spent a time in the 1980s broadcasting for his alma mater - The University of South Dakota, a cherished time for the former Coyote. He is the only South Dakota media person to be named Sportswriter of the Year and Broadcaster of the Year. One of the founders of the South Dakota Sports Hall of Fame, Nielsen has been named to nearly every hall I can think of. Beyond that, he raised a family and did a lot of volunteer work and service in Yankton.<br />
<br />
While media relations director, Mike convinced me (as did Hod) to take part in the H&K Open (I believe it was called) in Irene. "Ok, I thought, I will go over and hit a few balls." While there, I didn't kill any birds or hit any people with my wayward golfing stroke but I did lose about a dozen balls. That is a common theme with my golfing.<br />
<br />
I have never forgotten my first time at the golf outing. The real value was interacting with a smorgasbord of people from media types to business guys to educators. Hod and Mike were right, it was well worth my time. Stories, some enlarged and exaggerated over time, flowed like beer from a tap. I went to it a few times, each experience feeding my thirst for sports history and the trips and experiences that people encountered when they coached, played, officiated or simply went to watch.<br />
<br />
In 2000 when I took over SID chores at USD, I was able to see Hod on a regular basis. He would pop in and our talks would go on for awhile before we took care of his business at hand. Sometimes, he was there to do an interview or wanted a little data about a player or some alum. I soon realized that Hod was one of those walking/talking South Dakota sports history books. His passion for Yankton Bucks athletics was a topic at times but mostly we discussed his beloved Coyotes. <br />
<br />
I recall numerous discussions about Harry Gamage, Carl "Rube" Hoy, Moose Merrigan,Joe Salem, Dwayne Clodfelter, Bob Mulcahy and the many others that fill the Coyotes book of lore. I learned a lot about Coyote sports history from Hod Nielsen.<br />
<br />
From my view, Hod knew about nearly everything that happened in South Dakota, especially the southeast corner, over the past seven or so decades. I learned a lot from that man.<br />
<br />
Hod was among the best storytellers I have known. Taking a trip through history with Hod was captivating and you felt like you were on the field or court as he described a game, a memorable moment or an exceptional individual. Hod, who never involved himself in the narrative, had that Dakota Spirit - a South Dakota guy through and through. <br />
<br />
As I reflected on Hod this week, I recalled my first week in the SID office when he gave me the go-ahead to ask him for anything I needed in the new job. His invaluable insight proved fruitful so many times. He even wrote a column about SIDs and I was humbled when he mentioned my name.<br />
<br />
Every Saturday like clockwork, Hod made his way up the DakotaDome steps for his place at the north end of the pressbox for the football game. Before the game began, he would venture to the field to say hey to a few Yankton players or coaches on the sidelines. When the NCC played games on back-to-back nights, he always was there. He found his place along press row beside Mick Garry of the Argus Leader, Terry Hersom of the Sioux City Journal, the P&D's Jeremy Hoeck or James Cimburek, Volante staffers among others. He always kept his own notes about the game and would let me know if we screwed something up in stats or about some historical bit.<br />
<br />
As I noted earlier, Hod rarely spoke to me about WWII but when he did, he opened up a bit. As someone intriqued by that war, I listened intently and learned about the price that his generation paid. Later I came to understand his feelings about his country, that war and the loss of friends and brothers in battle. One night, the decision was reached to play the National Anthem during the USD women's game only, foregoing the men's game to provide some extra time to do some promotion of some sort. It was a mistake.<br />
<br />
That night, Hod was upset and I didn't know why until after talking with him the next day. His pride of country - and his lost military brothers - and the importance of the anthem had a special place in his heart as it resonates with all the veterans. We corrected that anthem issue immediately.<br />
<br />
There were so many experiences with Hod and I could go on. But mostly, our connection we shared remained strong. We always had sports dialogue to share and matters that friends talk about like job and family. <br />
<br />
When I left USD he was among the first people, I talked to about my next step in life. He showed his true friendship and support. We shared a coffee and vowed to stay connected.<br />
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Sometimes distance separates friends and time winds away. I made a couple of trips to Yankton but not enough, not nearly enough. Our meetings became rare as we would only meet at events at USD or in Sioux Falls or some regional sporting venue such as the South Dakota Sports Hall of Fame.<br />
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There are few people that are as genuine as Hod Nielsen. He was a man of honor and humble to the core. He was a guy that always had time for people and carried a gracious, heart-warming smile and demeanor. He was disarming and always treated people with respect. A conversation with Hod was a feel-good moment.<br />
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I will miss that - I will miss him.<br />
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I always respected Hod's way of doing things. Most memorable was the way he would always find me to say hello upon his arrival at an event. After games ended, he stopped down at my office as I was frantically getting post-game stuff accomplished. No interruptions, just a quick wave and a goodbye message.,<br />
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In a sense, I feel robbed that I don't have those conversations, those hellos and goodbyes, with Hod anymore. <br />
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Sleep well my friend, I wish the heavens would open up for one more conversation.<br />
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I will head to Yankton on Monday for his funeral at 10:30 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran, which will be full of his family, friends, colleagues and neighbors. <br />
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I have to tell him goodbye.<br />
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Tears are still filling my eyes.The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-84035487529769446072013-03-30T14:25:00.001-07:002013-04-02T07:23:37.814-07:00Conrad Adam Inpires Many With Courageous Fight Against Cancer<span style="font-family: inherit;">By definition, a hero is a man of distinguished courage or ability. </span><br />
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From my vantage point, Conrad Adam is such a hero. In a time of extraordinary adversity, the 17-year old high school junior has shown unbelievable resiliency and courage in a battle to beat cancer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Just a year ago, he was a point guard that helped Pierre Riggs boys basketball team to a third place finish at the State AA. As the summer opened, he was looking forward to a season when he would become Governors' starting point guard with the goal of bringing home the school's first AA crown since his dad (Karl) led the 1982 team to a title. </span><br />
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Then, Adam received a crushing blow when he was diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer (osteosarcoma) in his leg in late summer. In October, he had surgery and lost his left leg above the knee. Later, he was fitted with a prosthesis. With his basketball season over, Adam began the fight of his young life.</span><br />
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Since those days last summer, he has undergone numerous chemotherapy treatments as he battled the unforgiving disease. </span><br />
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In his fight, Adam has inspired many South Dakotans through courage and an absolute belief that he would beat this thing and perhaps find a way to return to the playing floor. </span><br />
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Through this difficult time, Adam has exhibited an uncommon inner strength and an upbeat positive resolve. The resilient junior has faith that he will prevail against his most difficult opponent. </span><br />
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From my view, Adam is a hero for his courage, resiliency and determined faith. He demonstrates that human spirit is a powerful force. He has provided an example that never giving in is a message that not only resonates with all of us but can energize people to battle difficult situations regardless of odds.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />As Adam and his family were tested by a harsh reality, people from across the state stood with him. Inspired by this high school junior, Conrad's Clan was formed. From Pierre across many schools and universities, high school students, coaches, basketball officials and citizens everywhere and in all walks of life joined Conrad's Clan to support Adam. The Dakota spirit came shining through.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.keloland.com/newsdetail.cfm/conrads-clan/?id=143812">http://www.keloland.com/newsdetail.cfm/conrads-clan/?id=143812</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">From wearing t-shirts to wrist bands, friends, neighbors and citizens came forward to donate and help the Adam family. On Conrad Clan's wristbands, it says "No One Fights Alone." In this Adam battle and cause, that statement showcased brotherly love and spirit. </span><br />
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South Dakota's two largest universities, South Dakota State University and the University of South Dakota, both joined the Conrad Clan and were part of different fundraising activities. </span><br />
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USD collaborated with KVHT to sponsor a Dribble-a-thon and then Coyote Athletics held a Conrad Adam Day on Feb. 16, which combined to raise over $5,000. The 24-hour dribble-a-thon which began with a USD men's basketball game with Oakland, included USD President James W. Abbott, KVHT's Randy Hammer and John Thayer, various Coyote women's and men's basketball players, among others. </span><br />
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Abbott said in media interviews that USD needed to be part of this effort, in part due to the Adam family's connection to the University but most of all in support of a young man who is courageous with an admirable resolve. Karl and Joan Adam, Conrad's parents, are both USD graduates and Conrad's sister, Katherine, is a freshman at USD. The Adam family has generations of college graduates from USD.</span><br />
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Two days after the dribbling marathon, USD Athletics hosted Conrad Adam Night at the DakotaDome on Feb. 16. At that game, USD sold Conrad Clan's t-shirts and wristbands (selling out) while Abbott, USD interim athletic director David Herbster and USD football coach Joe Glenn and others participated in a "cash cube" during halftime of the women's game with Fort Wayne. </span><br />
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With a goal of $1,000, USD was able to raise over $5,000 between the two events (dribble-a-thon, Conrad Adam Night).</span><br />
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This summer, the SDSU men's team held an intra-squad scrimmage at Riggs High School in Adam's honor. During that event, more than $9,300 was raised through sales of wristbands, free-will donations, half-time hoop shot and silent auction of a Governors' jersey. Rapid City Stevens has raised $1,007 and other schools have also contributed to the Adam cause. Pierre, itself, auctioned off 15 Conrad Adam jerseys this past basketball season.</span><br />
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One of the great measures of Adam was his commitment to sticking with his Pierre basketball brothers even as he had to undergo uncomfortable chemotherapy sessions, which stole his hair and left him beat down. He didn't take refuge at home or in a hospital. He remained a part of the team, which I am sure motivated his teammates while inspiring those that followed the Governors. All of his teammates have treated him like a brother.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Adam attended most of the Governors' games, including all three State AA Tournament contests. At the tourney, he was introduced before games and supported by everyone on the floor and in the Sioux Falls Arena. As Pierre advanced into the title game, their opponent, Brandon Valley, wore Conrad Clan’s t-shirts in pregame warm-ups. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">While the road to the state title was a bumpy road, the Governors made it to Sioux Falls with 15 wins in 16 games. The only loss in that span was a one-point road loss to Brookings. Interestingly, Pierre, which was the preseason favorite to win AA, opened with four losses in six games and and had five defeats by a total of 11 points during the season.</span><br />
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The Governors, which finished 21-5, persevered to make it to the State AA, led by their DI dynamic duo Lane Severyn and Zach Hansen, who will play DI basketball at South Dakota State and Creighton, respectively. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">At the State AA, Pierre Riggs won a 60-47 decision against Rapid City Central as Hansen had a tournament-high 30 points (14-of-20 field goals) while Severyn had 16 points, 11 rebounds and six assists. The Governors then survived a tough semifinal battle with Sioux Falls Lincoln, 47-45, in the as Hansen had 21 points and Severyn added 18 points and eight rebounds. Hansen's two free throws with 3.8 seconds left provided the difference against SF Lincoln.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />As I watched Adam from a distance and talked with friends on mine from Pierre, I knew that Adam was a pretty special guy - tough with a tremendous inner resolve and a positive personna. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As I arrived at the Sioux Falls Arena on that Championship Saturday, I could sense something in the air. I have been to a number of championship games at levels from high school to college but this one was different. </span><br />
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As I sat down to call the championship game with Chris Tubbs on play-by-play and Bill Zortman as an analyst for KWSN Radio in Sioux Falls, I felt a tremendous tug on my emotions. This night was special, because it featured two ESD schools seeking to end a long championship drought (BV, 1998; Pierre, 1982). Plus, it was going to include Conrad Adam's Pierre team. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Pierre coach Terry Becker put Adam in a uniform on that championship night, suggesting later that he was simply the right thing to do. It was. Adam was announced with his teammates, a heart-warming moment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As both teams – BV in the red and black and Pierre in the green - battled on the new Arena floor, Brandon Valley controlled action for three quarters. Led by senior Chase Marso, who scored 17 points, the Lynx held a 36-32 lead after three quarters. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Then, the fourth quarter happened. Through the magical shooting touch of Lane Severyn, Pierre's all-time leading scorer (1,510 points), three-point shooter (198) and rebounder (661 rebounds), the Governors rallied. Severyn, who had 58 points in the tourney, lifted his team to victory by hitting three, three-point field goals in the fourth quarter as the Governors outscored the Lynx, 18-3, in the decisive fourth quarter. As a result, Pierre won its fourth title.</span><br />
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Severyn finished with 24 points, hitting 9-of-13 shots from the field, including 5-of-8 from three-point range, and hauling down nine rebounds. </span><br />
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Perhaps, we should have known it was Pierre's night when they received nine unexpected points from Cody Honeywell - all three-point shots - in the first half. Then, of course, there was the steady play of their guards and the inside presence of Hansen. Double and triple teamed all night, Hansen finished with 11 points and 13 rebounds as he finished with a tourney-high 62 points and 28 rebounds. He finished his career with 1,362 points and 657 rebounds, both second behind Severyn in Pierre's record book. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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As is in the norm in the championship celebration scene, presentation of the trophy and individual awards were presented to the two teams. After BV’s Marso, the Spirit of Su Award recipient, received his second-place medal he walked over to Adam and gave him a hug. </span></div>
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All year along, Marso has tried to bring a championship trophy home to BV, first as a record-setting quarterback in football; and then as the leading scorer for the Lynx's hoop team. Despite the frustrations of defeat, he showed his big heart in the post-game ceremony. </span><br />
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Marso’s action exemplified what so many of us would like to do – hug Adam for his battle and inspiration and wish him well in the days ahead. Marso's gesture also made us aware of why he is such a great leader - people matter, Conrad Adam matters, and that wins or losses aren't the most important thing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As Adam received his championship medal, the entire crowd rose in unison to give him a standing ovation. I wasn’t near his parents, old friends of mine, but I had a charge of emotion. I was touched not only for a young man resilience and battle but for an entire basketball community that showed all of us that athletics is more than games, points, winning and all that. </span><br />
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Basketball is a game that features blood, sweat and tears. It is about competitiveness, respect and how players are brothers in arms leaving everything on the floor and then helping one another up in signature moments of compassion.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">While he wasn't on the floor, you could see the smile crease across Adam's face as the school received the championship trophy. He may not have scored any points but Adam was very much a part of this championship. His courageous fight lifted his teammates and inspired a state. </span><br />
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"Nobody fights alone" is a statement/theme that has been a big part of high school basketball this year because of Conrad Adam's cancer battle. It is a theme that has relevance and will carry on.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As Conrad Adam moves on, we go with him in spirit, in cause, and with his example that “never quit” gives us all the motivation and courage to battle in difficult times and to stand up when we see others in need of support.</span></div>
The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-50911664825492891602013-03-29T11:28:00.001-07:002013-03-30T07:20:10.315-07:00Onida's Alexis Yackley Brought an Unrelenting Desire to Win to Coyote WBB<br />
Alexis Yackley, a prep standout from Onida (SD), ended her collegiate career with The University of South Dakota Women's Basketball Team on Thursday night in a 71-63 loss to McN<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WWasB29-uZU/UVXjMiiYkeI/AAAAAAAAALY/lynOqkLIEnM/s1600/yackley+2+-+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WWasB29-uZU/UVXjMiiYkeI/AAAAAAAAALY/lynOqkLIEnM/s320/yackley+2+-+2013.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alexis Yackley - USD Women's BB senior point guard</td></tr>
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eese State. Yackley, who will attend the USD Law School, was one of the school's most intense competitors and classy ambassadors.<br />
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She was part of a Coyote squad that went to three straight postseason tournaments (twice to WBI and last year in the WNIT), putting together a 4-3 record. In their first try at the DI level, the Coyotes finished second in the Summit League Tournament, winning two of three games, with the only loss a heart-breaking 56-53 loss to rival SDSU in the championship. During her career, Yackley was part of a team that won 19 games (19-16, 2012-13, 23-8, 2011-12; 20-12, 2010-11) or more three straight years. In her final game vs. McNeese State, she was on the USD team that tied a school record for most games played in a season (35, 33-2 mark by 2007-08 team) and the first Coyotes team to host a semifinal contest in a DI postseason tournament.<br />
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Yackley was a starter in the latest game ever played at the DakotaDome (WNIT, 64-55 loss to Colorado, March 19, 2011-12) on Thursday, March 28. In her finale, Yackley hit 1-2 of field goals (a three-pointer) with seven rebounds and three assists. She finished her career with 445 assists (fourth all-time at USD) with 539 points, 406 rebounds, 85 three-point baskets, 134 steals, and 22 blocked shots.<br />
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As a Gettysburg Battlers alum, it was great to see a former Sully Buttes standout star at my alma mater. The Battlers and Chargers have waged some big-time battles in all sports over the years - some of which I was part of (if I can remember back that far). Watching and also interviewing Yackley was an honor and something I will remember and appreciate. From what I observed, she brought an unrelenting desire to win, constant in-your-face defensive pressure, matched by a "never say quit" attitude, which I believe helped USD women's basketball sustain success on and off the floor. <br />
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Yackley’s arrival in Vermillion took a detour through Iowa State, an Elite Eight team when she appeared in 26 games for the Cyclones in 2008-09 as a true freshman. She had chosen the Cyclones after a highly successful career at Onida where she led the Chargers to five straight state tournament appearances including back-to-back titles in 2006-08.<br />
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Over the final 16 games this season, Yackley, a three-year starter, helped USD win 10-of-16 games, finish 19-16 and finish third in the Summit League (10-6) for the second straight year. Yackley's leadership was especially needed for a team picked to finish sixth by media and coaches in a Summit League preseason poll and then hit hard by injuries with one projected starter and four others lost to injuries before games began in 2012-13. Led by the example of Yackley and four seniors, USD women's basketball was willed to win every night. The result was a memorable season that ended back where the season started at the DakotaDome.<br />
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At her final post-game press conference, Yackley talked about the team and their great postseason run. Here are some excerpts of her comments.<br />
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"I want to say thanks to all the Coyote fans, especially all of the fans that have been coming to our games for the past year and all of the other years. It was a great run. Our goal was to be playing our best basketball toward the end. And, you know, we made a great run in the conference tournament and we made a great run here. Won two postseason games, it was fun.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6HgNTXADmlQ/UVXi-E78fKI/AAAAAAAAALQ/mx_u8LCqdwQ/s1600/YackleyWBball-52424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6HgNTXADmlQ/UVXi-E78fKI/AAAAAAAAALQ/mx_u8LCqdwQ/s320/YackleyWBball-52424.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alexis Yackley in Summit League Tournament<br />
(Photos courtesy of USD Sports Information)</td></tr>
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“We were obviously super disappointed that we had lost that game against State (SDSU in Summit League Championship) when we led almost the whole way. I think it was a great game, a great atmosphere for girls basketball; great atmosphere for the state. We would have liked to win but we were excited that we were able to extend our careers a little while longer and win two games, two road games (in the WBI). To go in Lamar where they won 39 g<br />
ames in a row and get a 71-48 win on them.<br />
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"We had a last chance (Thursday in WBI semifinals at the DakotaDome) to play in front of Coyote fans, in front of our parents and unfortunately it didn’t roll our way. But, we had a great run. It meant everything to be back here. It brought a tear to my eye. We hung our hats on being tough and try to exude in practice and games. I hope fans saw that and it stays with them. We may not be tallest, strongest or most athletic but you can play the hardest and I think our team showed that."<br />
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Kudos to Yackley and all the Coyote seniors, including Tempestt Wilson, Pam January, Sam Mehr and McKayla Knudson.<br />
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<br />The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-35337658619928211202013-03-25T19:00:00.000-07:002013-03-28T10:21:36.890-07:00South Dakota WBB Team On Postseason Roll; Prepares for McNeese State in WBI Semis at Dome<span style="font-family: inherit;">The South Dakota Women's Basketball Team (19-15) is dancing to a winning tune.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">No, the Coyotes aren't at the Big Dance (NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament) but the group of 10 is finding the WBI dance pretty inviting. On</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Thursday, the South Dakota women's team, led by first-year head coach Amy Williams, will host McNeese State (20-14, 11-7, tied for 4th, Southland Conference) in the semifinals of the WBI Tourney at the DakotaDome. It will be the first-ever meeting between the two teams and the first time the DakotaDome has played host to a DI postseason tournament semifinal game. In an effort to bring out the fan support, the USD marketing department is promoting a "White Out" at the Dome.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Coyotes Play in 3rd Straight DI Postseaosn Tourney</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">When they lost a heart-breaking 56-53 decision to rival SDSU (regular season and league champion) in the Summit League Championship, the Coyotes' season could have ended in a 17-15 year. But, USD's strong finish in the league and regular season earned a bid to the WBI, marking the third straight year that the Coyotes have played in a DI postseason tournament (WNIT, 2011-12; WBI, 2010-11, 2-2 overall record). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In the WBI, a 16-team tournament split into two regions, West Region #6 seed USD has won two straight road games, rallying for a 77-69 win over #3 Utah State on March 21, before defeating #2 seed Lamar University, 71-48, on March 24. The Coyotes ended Lamar University's 39-home game non-conference winning streak. Now they get #8 seed McNeese State, which has wins over WBI #1 seed Mercer, 82-70, and #4 seed Elon, 66-58. The winner of USD/McNeese State travels to face the East Region winner between #1 seed Detroit (19-13)/#2 Penn (18-12). Penn is the first Ivy League school invited to the WBI. Detroit defeated #8 Belmont, 71-68; and #5 College of Charleston, 79-67. Penn upended #7 Howard, 65-60; and #3 Fairfield, 49-48.</span><br />
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Eighth-seeded <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">McNeese State, led by sixth-year head coach Brooks Donald Williams (102-88), is making its third straight postseason appearance, which included NCAA appearances in 2010-11 and 2011-12 as Southland Conference champs. The Cowgirls, which have won 20 games or more three straight seasons, are led by twin sisters Ashlyn (18.8 ppg, 100 3's, 2,003 career points, 300 career 3's) and Caitlyn Baggett (15.4 ppg, 4.6 apg) and post standout Cecilia Okoye (9.0 ppg, 7.1 rpg). Of note, the Baggetts' father (Stan), grandfather (Richard), great uncle (Charles) and uncle (Ray) all were athletes at McNeese State. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">McNeese State, which averages 68.4 ppg and allows 62.2 ppg, defeated league/tourney champion and former Summit League member Oral Roberts twice in the regular season before losing to the Golden Eagles in the Southland Conference Tournament final, 79-66. They also split the season series with Lamar, winning on the road, 65-46, and losing at home, 57-53.</span></h5>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Coyotes On Hot Streak</span></h5>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">At one point this season, it would have been crazy to think the offensive-challenged Coyotes would make a deep run in the postseason, even if it is a secondary DI tournament. But here they are. </span></h5>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Since consecutive road losses to Oakland (59-46) and Fort Wayne (71-64), South Dakota has won 7-of-8 games with their only loss the Summit League tournament championship heart-breaker. As for season numbers, the Coyotes average 63.8 ppg to 57.2 ppg for opponents. They hit 40.9 percent from the field, including 29.7 from 3-point range (161 3's) and 70.7% from the foul line. Opponents are averaging just 35.8% from the field and 27.8% from 3-point range.</span></h5>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><b>South Dakota 4-1 in Postseason With 11.6 Victory Margin</b></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> </span></div>
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In winning 4-of-5 postseason games, South Dakota has outscored opponents, 356-to-298 or 71.2 to 59.6 or an 11.6 victory margin. The Coyotes, which has a 151-to-144 first-half edge, own the second half with a 205-to-154 advantage. They are not only stopping teams but doing it on the offensive end. They have hit 46.1% from the field on 129-of-280 shooting. In addition, they are making 39.5% (30-of-76) from 3-point range while cashing in 73.9% (68.92) from the foul line. During this run, they have made six three-pointers a game and 13.6 free throws each contest. Beyond that they own a 42.6-to-35.2 rebound margin or a 7.4 margin. The offensive flow has been sharp indicated by 18.2 assists per game. While USD has a -2.6 turnover margin (71-to-59), USD has 6.2 steals and 2.6 blocks per game. As noted, the defense has been solid, limiting opponents to 34.0% (109-of-321) from the field. USD foes have made just 27.5% (28-102) from three-point range while hitting 73.2% (52-71) from the foul line. South Dakota has 16 more made free throws (68-to-52) than their opponents and 20 more field goals (129-to-109).</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zL3n90r3eQ0/UVEGMjqHiPI/AAAAAAAAALA/l56s359qz2E/s1600/seekamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zL3n90r3eQ0/UVEGMjqHiPI/AAAAAAAAALA/l56s359qz2E/s1600/seekamp.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nicole Seekamp</td></tr>
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Sophomore Nicole Seekamp (Renmark, Australia) was named the first Summit League MVP in school history and the first league player since 2004 to be honored with the honor. Seekamp not only excelled in the Summit Tourney but has risen her level of play in the entire postseason run. In the five games, she is averaging 21.6 ppg (108 points) with 5.4 rebounds, 16 assists and 13 steals. Seekamp, who has pushed her season averages to 14.7 ppg and 4.0 rpg, is hitting a sizzling 60.9% (39-of-64) from the field, including 55.0% (11-of-20) from 3-point range and 95.0% (19-of-20) from the foul stripe. She has a team-high 44 3's (134 att., 32.8%).<br />
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With 13 points in the win over Lamar, Seekamp reached 500 points on the season, becoming the 8th Coyote in school history to reach that total in a season. Ten times USD has had a player score 500 points with all-time great Mandy Koupal doing it three times (806, 2003-04; 740, 2002-03; 596, 2001-02). Prior to Seekamp, the last player to score 500 points in a season was another all-time great Amber Hegge in 2011-12 (596, tied for 4th, all-time).</div>
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Senior Tempestt Wilson (Elk River, Minn.) is fighting to extend her Coyote playing career. Wilson (12.9 ppg, 3.8 rpg), is averaging 13.0 points and 3.4 rebounds per game in the postseason. She has pushed her career total in made 3's to 130 for 11th all-time at USD (Krista Orsack, 2000-02, 133, 10th). This season she has made 40-of-125 3's (32.1%). </div>
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While senior guard Alexis Yackley (Onida, S.D.) has scored just 12 points in the postseason, she has done everything else. She had nine assists vs. Lamar and now has 36 assists or 7.2 per game in the postseason. In addition, Yackley, who moved into 4th place on USD's career assist chart with 442, has grabbed 32 rebounds for 6.4 per game. </div>
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Junior center Polly Harrington (Kansas City, Mo.) is also showing up big-time with 11.2 ppg and 5.6 rpg in the postseason. She led the way with 15 points in the Lamar win. Other contributors and their postseason marks include 6-2 freshman Margaret McCloud (Rapid City, S.D.), at 6.8 ppg, 6.0 rpg; senior Sam Mehr (Apple Valley, Minn.), with 6.6 ppg, 1.8 rpg and 9-of-23 from 3; and 6-1 sophomore Lisa Loeffler (Lakewood, Minn.) with 6.2 ppg and a team-high 7.0 rpg. USD's bench is playing a huge role, chipping in 16.8 ppg and 11.4 rpg.</div>
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<b>A USD Victory vs. McNeese State Means...</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">~Amy Williams will become South Dakota's first-ever, first-year coach to reach 20 wins in a season. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">~ USD would record a third straight 20-win campaigns for the first time ever. A victory would boost the season mark to 20-15, following the 20-12 mark in 2010-11 (Ryun Williams) and 23-8 in record in 2011-12 (Ryun Williams). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">~ The Coyotes would reach 20-wins for the 10th time in school history. The nine previous 20-win seasons include 22-7 (Chad Lavin), 1983-84; 23-6 (Lavin), 1984-85; 22-7 (Fred Tibbetts), 1988-89; 27-5 (Lavin), 2002-03; 25-7 (Lavin), 2003-04; 22-9 (Lavin), 2006-07; 33-2 (Lavin), 2007-08; 20-12 (Ryun Williams) , 2010-11; 23-8, 2011-12 (R Williams</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">). </span></div>
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The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-42396231083942627562013-03-23T20:48:00.001-07:002013-03-24T06:37:12.510-07:00Putting Wrap on SD Boys State Tourneys - Pierre, Madison and White River Win Titles<span style="font-family: inherit;">South Dakota boys basketball championships recently concluded with a defending champion White River repeating in Class B in Aberdeen while Madison won a their third title in five years in Class A at Rapid City and Pierre Riggs captured a fourth overall title and the first AA crown in 31 years in Sioux Falls. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here is a review of the tournaments with a horde of notes and stats. </span><br />
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<b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Pierre Wins State AA Behind
Severyn’s 4<sup>th</sup> Q Performance</span></u></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Pierre Riggs (21-5), the preseason #1, won the state AA championship for the first
time since 1982, a span of 31 years. Led by SDSU recruit Lane Severyn’s 24 points and five
rebounds, Pierre Riggs rallied from a 36-32 third-quarter deficit to defeat Brandon Valley, 50-39, in an All-ESD match-up. The Governors and supporters were inspired by Conrad Adam, a junior who is battling cancer. During the awards ceremony, Adam received a standing ovation from the gathered masses at the Arena. In the title game, Pierre outscored Brandon Valley (18-7), 18-3, in the pivotal fourth quarter as Severyn came through in the clutch. Severyn had five three-point field goals on the night but three in the fourth quarter. Pierre also
received 11 points and 13 rebounds from Creighton recruit Zach Hansen, who led the all players at
the AA Tourney with 62 points and also had 26 rebounds. Severyn had 58 points
and 28 rebounds in the three games. BV was limited to three points in the fourth quarter by Pierre. The Governors made 15-of-43 field goals for 34.8%
while converting 9-of-30 (30%) shots from three-point range and 11-of-17 (64.7%) free
throws. The Govs outrebounded BV, 28-22, and had four blocks and four
steals. The Lynx hit 14-of-53 field goals for 26.4%, including 6-of-26 shots from
three-point range for 23.1% and 5-of-7 free throws for 71.4%. Combined the two
teams shot 56 three-point shots, making 15 for just 26.78%. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Pierre Notes: </b>The Governors won their
fourth title in the school’s 38th appearance in the state AA tourney. To get to
the Sioux Falls Arena, Pierre defeated Aberdeen Central, 61-38, and Huron,
49-48, to win Districts. The Governors, which last won a state crown in 1982
(Rapid City Central, 56-43), also claimed titles in 1979 (Rapid City Central,
68-57) and 1944 (Huron, 29-28). Including the State AA Tourney, Pierre closed the season with 18 wins in 19
games with the only loss a one-point decision at Brookings on Feb. 8. In the last 18 games, Pierre won 15 by double figure totals.
Pierre finished the season with a 1,578-to-1,277 scoring differential,
which breaks out to 60.69-to-49.11 ppg or a per game victory margin of 11.58. Severyn
finished his career with 1,510 career
points (Pierre school record), 661 rebounds (Pierre school record) and 198
3-point field goals. He had 518 points (19.92 ppg) and 211 rebounds (8.1 rpg)
this season. Hansen finished with 1,362 points (2nd all-time at Pierre) with 657
rebounds. In 2012-13, Hansen had 499 points (19.19 ppg) and 206 rebounds (8.0 rpg). Severyn and Hansen combined to score 2,872 points and grab 1,318 rebounds during illustrious careers at Pierre. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>At State AA</b>: Pierre advanced to the AA
championship game with Brandon Valley after rallying for a 47-45 win over Sioux Falls Lincoln in the semifinals.
Two free throws by Hansen with 3.8 seconds to go provided the difference over the Patriots (13-13). In a back and forth semifinal, Pierre
forced a Lincoln turnover with 22 seconds left in a tie game and Hansen
was fouled and converted at the line. Hansen scored 21 points, hitting 8-of-15
field goals, and grabbed six rebounds, while Severyn added 18 points and eight
rebounds. Pierre hit 16-of-45 shots from the field for 35.6%, while making just 1-of-13 from three-point range. They were 14-of-18 from the foul like.
Earlier in the tourney, Pierre, the #2 seed, registered a 60-47 win over Rapid
City Central as Hansen scored 30 points and had seven rebounds while Severyn added
16 points and 11 boards. Against Central, Hansen made 14-of-20 shots from the field, including a
three-pointer, and had two blocks Overall, Pierre converted 24-of-55 shots from the
field for 43.6%, including 7-of-22 from three-point range. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Brandon Valley Notes</b>: The Lynx (18-7), which had a nine game winning streak end
against Pierre Riggs, tied a season low with his 39 points
in the title game. The Lynx, which recorded 10 wins by double figures, finished
with a 1,383-to-1,210 scoring differential, which breaks out to 55.32-to-48.4
or a 6.92 victory margin. Directed by 12th-year coach Brent Deckert, Brandon
Valley was runner-up (2<sup>nd</sup> time) in their 11th tourney appearance.
The Lynx last won a state title in 1998 with a 63-58 decision over O'Gorman.
The school’s last trip to the title game was in 2003. BV also made state tourney
appearances in 2013, 2011, 2010, 2007, 2006, 2003, 1998, 1997 (third), 1992,
1990 (third), 1975, and 1965 (third). For
the season, Lynx connected on 42.2% of their shots from the field on 473-of-1,122 shooting,
including 30.4% (136-of-447) on 3-point shooting. They hit 61.3% (264-of-431)
from the charity stripe. Chase Marso led the team in scoring with 16.84 ppg
(421 points) and 4.2 rpg. He hit 40.9% (150-of-367) from the field,
including 57-of-165 for 34.5% from 3-point range. Marso finished his season
with seven games over 20 points, including two with 30 points or more. His high was 36 points vs. Rapid City Central when he knocked home 9-of-14 from 3-point
range. Junior Jacob Adams had 18 double
digit scoring games, including three straight in the state tourney. He averaged
12.48 ppg (312 points) with 5.7 rpg. Nic Peterson, who had 16 double figure
scoring games, including two in the tourney, averaged 11.6 ppg (290 points)
with 3.7 rebounds per game. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>State Tourney Notes</b>: The Lynx, led by 15 points from Nic Petersen, advanced to the AA
title game by knocking off the #1 seed SF Roosevelt, 57-51. Roosevelt had defeated BV earlier in the season, 82-55. The Lynx also received a big game from Jacob Adams with 14
points and 10 rebounds while Chase
Marso had 10 points, three rebounds and three
assists. In the semifinal upset, BV shot just 35.7 percent but also held
Roosevelt to 36.7%. Both teams had trouble from 3 with BV knocking down 5-of-17
and Roosevelt, 4-of-21. The key factors in the win over Roosevelt, which had
defeated 20 straight South Dakota opponents, was rebounds and free throws. The
Lynx made 22-of-30 from the charity stripe for 73.3%, although Adams missed six
straight in the 30 seconds after BV had built a six-point lead. Brandon Valley
trailed 51-49 late before outscoring the Rough Riders, 8-0 over the final 2:33.
The Lynx had a 39-23 advantage in rebounds, including 16 offensive boards.
Roosevelt made 11-of-16 free throws. While BV had some problems with the
Roosevelt pressure, they also forced mistakes with both teams committing 13
turnovers. Led by Nic Peterson's 20 points, BV moved into the semifinal round
with a 62-29 win over #4 seed Huron. BV advanced to the AA tourney by defeating
SF Washington, 56-43, and SF Lincoln, 71-43, in district play.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>BV AA Stats</b>: In the State AA Tourney, Brandon Valley made 54-of-141 shots
from the field for 38.29 percent. In addition, they hit 14-of-52 for 26% from
3-point range. The Lynx converted 36-of-54 (66.7%) on free throws. Individually,
Peterson, a junior, scored 38 points, including games of 20 and 15, to lead the
Lynx. He hit 11-of-21 field goals while hauling in nine rebounds
and recording five steals. Jacob Adams, also a junior, had 37 points (14, 10,
13) with 18 rebounds while Marso, a senior, had 36 points (9, 10, 17), although
he had a frustrating tourney from three-point range, hitting just 3-of-17. He
also had seven assists and 10 rebounds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">AA Notes</span></u></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Beste Comes Up Big</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Brookings Konnor Beste
had a career-high 40 points in a 73-61 consolation win by the Bobcats over
Rapid City Central on Friday. He made 14-of-20 shots from the field, including
8-of-11 from three-point range. The point total and three-point conversions are
the best among all players in any of the state tourneys ongoing in 2013.
Beste’s total may be the best ever by a bench player at a state tournament as he was named to the State A All-Tourney squad.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Rivalry Saturday</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">On
Saturday, the AA Tourney was treated to a pair of rivalry match ups. In the
7th-place game, Rapid City Stevens defeated the Rapid City Cobblers, 56-50.
With the win, Stevens earned a split in four games with the Cobblers. RC
Central won a 48-47 OT game in the Districts while Stevens returned the favor
with the state tournament win. Later Roosevelt defeated Lincoln, 52-41, for
third place. It also culminated with Tyler Howard completing his career with
1,010 points, just the second Roosevelt player ever (John Sivisend, 1,382,
1992-96) to reach 1K in career points.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>AA All Tourney Team</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Zach Hanson, Lane Severyn, both of Pierre
Riggs; Tyler Howard, Nate Cole, both of SF Roosevelt; Stephen Schaefer, RC
Stevens; Chase Marso, Nic Peterson, Jacob Adams, all of Brandon Valley; Adam
Jaros, SF Lincoln; Tyler Nagy, Konnor Beste, both of Brookings; and Justin Decker, Huron.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Class A – Madison Turns Back Tea Area in a Match up of Neighbors<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Two schools
about 40 miles apart met in the Class A title game with Madison (24-2) rallying from a 30-22 halftime deficit to claim a third Class A title in five years with
a 54-49 decision over Tea Area (22-4) in Rapid City’s Rushmore Plaza Civic
Center. Madison finished the season with 11 straight wins while halting Tea Area’s
12 game winning streak. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Madison Season Notes</b>: The Bulldogs (24-2),
which won titles in 2009 and 2010, had a 190-to-113 edge in rolling to the
title. Before their five-point title game win, Madison had won 10 straight
games by margins of 13 points or more. They won 21 games by double digit totals this
year with 14 by 20 points or better. Madison was dominant in the postseason, putting together a 454-to-269
scoring margin from districts through State A play. Madison, which made their 23rd state
tournament appearance, has won five
titles including championships in 1921 (29-21 over Mitchell), 1945 (30-28 over
Webster), 2009 (48-40 over Platte-Geddes) and 2010 (58-47 over St. Thomas More)
along with 54-49 decision over Tea Area this year. In addition, the Bulldogs have
finished runner-up five times for 10 total championship game appearances. Madison,
directed 8th-year head coach Michael Ricke (178-39, .819), had a 1,764
ppg-to-1,181 scoring differential this season. That total breaks out to 67.85-to-45.42 ppg edge and a Class A-best 22.43 points per game victory margin. <o:p></o:p>Overall this season, Madison was led by Vandeberg who scored 287 points, which breaks out to 11.48 ppg. He hit 107-of-219 for 48.9% from the field. He hit 21-of-59 shots for 35.6% from three-point range. He was 52-of-75 free throws for 69.3%. Jesse Brown had 274 points for 10.54 points, hitting 115-of-233 field goals. He was tied with Tyler Wiebe with 185 rebounds or 7.1 rpg. Wiebe finished with 212 points or 9.64 ppg. Mason Sullivan (208 points, 8.0 ppg) and Braxton Olson (200 points, 7.69 ppg) also scored at least 200 points. Sullivan also had 78 assists and Olson, 62.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Bulldogs State Tourney Notes</b>: Prior to the win over Tea
Area, Madison rolled to a 66-30 win over Mobridge-Pollock in the semifinals as
Trae Vandeberg had 15 points (6-of-12 on field goals) while Tyler Wiebe had 15
and Jacob Giles, 11. Madison also won a opening round game with a 70-34
decision over Pine Ridge (14-10). They advanced to the State A with a 69-52 win
over Dell Rapids in Region 3A. The Bulldogs claimed District 5B with a 101-42 win over
Flandreau Indian School and then an 84-62 decision over Elkton-Lake Benton in the championship. Against
Mobridge-Pollock in the semifinals at the A Tourney, Madison opened the game on a 12-0 run and were never
threatened by the Tigers, which had knocked off #2 seed Aberdeen Roncalli in
the quarterfinals. In the win, Madison hit 25-of-61 shots for 41%, including
4-of-10 from three-point range. They were 12-of-17 for 70.59%. Madison held
Mobridge-Pollock to 23.4% (11-of-47) shooting from the field and 4-of-13 for
31% from three-point range. In the quarterfinal win over Pine Ridge, Madison
rolled to a 46-16 halftime lead and was never threatened. They were led by
Tyler Wiebe with 15 points while Jesse Brown had 12 points and 10 rebounds. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>State Stat Breakdown</b>: Madison, which
outrebounded A tourney opponents, 131-to-83, rolled to the championship through tough defense. In all, the Bulldogs forced 54 turnovers, 40 of which
came through steals. The Bulldogs hit 49-of-167 for 41.3%, including 7-of-24
(29.2%) from three point range. At the charity stripe, Madison made 45-of-67
for 67.2%. The Bulldogs were led in scoring by Wiebe with 36 points, who also had seven assists, 22
rebounds, two steals and a block. Vandeberg (11.6 ppg), who had 32 points,
10 rebounds, three assists and three steals. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Tea Area Notes</b>: The Titans (22-4), which
was led by head coach Chris Fechner (2nd season at Tea; 12th overall, 112-82), fell
to Madison, 54-49, in the school’s first-ever State A Championship appearance.
In the title game, Connor Shaull scored 12 points while Riley Knutson finished
with 11. Overall in 2012-13, Tea Area compiled 1562 points for 60.08 ppg, while
allowing 1,207 points or 46.42 ppg. Tea Area hit 46.4% (590-of-1,271) from the
field, 25.2% (78-of-310) from 3-point range and 58.82% (304-517) from the foul
line. They averaged 31.1 rebounds per game and record 283 steals. Shaull, who
was the Class A Spirit of Su Award recipient, finished the season with 381
points, averaging 14.65 points per game. He had 199 rebounds, including 63 on
offense. Mitchell Nissen finished with 275 points or 10.58 ppg along with 191
rebounds and 34 blocks. Riley Knutson had 333 points (12.8 ppg), 100 rebounds,
83 assists and 70 steals.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Tea Area At State</b> - The Titans advanced to the title game with a
dominating 65-33 decision over Platte-Geddes (16-8), which had knocked off the
#1 seed Clark-Willow Lake 66-51, in a quarterfinal #1 vs. #8 match-up. Tea Area
advanced to the Class A semifinals with a 60-53 win over #4 seed Spearfish
(18-6). In the win over Platte-Geddes, Tea Area trailed 16-14 in the second
quarter before they had a 16-1 run and never were threatened thereafter. After
leading 30-17 at the break, Tea Area outscored the Black Panthers, 35-16, in the
second half. Once again team was led by Shaull with 20
points and five rebounds. The Titans made hit 22-of-55 shots from the field for 40% but
made just 3-of-15 shots from three-point range. They were 18-of-27 from the foul
line for 66.7%. While Platte Geddes had a 39-32 edge in rebounding, Tea Area
dominated on defense, forcing 29 turnovers, including 17 through steals. The
Titans also had seven blocks. In the semifinal win over Spearfish, Tea Area was again paced by
Shaull, who had 23 points and seven rebounds, hitting 3-of-9 from three-point
range. Knutson added 11 points for
the Titans. To get to State, Tea Area rallied to defeat Dakota Valley, 57-55,
in the Region 4A final. Tea Area advanced to the region final with a 57-38 win
over Lennox. The Titans nearly went out in the first round, needing a
last-second shot to slide by Harrisburg, 45-43.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Tea Area’s State Stats</b>: Tea Area finished the
tourney with a 174-to-140 points per game advantage with a 333-to-276 overall
post-season points margin. They made 62-of-142 (43.6%) from the field, 11-of-42
(26.2%) from three-point range, and 39-of-65 (60%) from the foul line. Defense was one of Tea Area’s main attributes
in the tourney. They forced 61 turnovers by means of 43 steals and 13 total
blocks. The Titans, which had 43 turnovers, was outrebounded, 108-to-95. Shaull
finished third in points in the A tourney with 53, hitting 23, 18 and 12 in
consecutive games. He also had 19 rebounds, three steals and three blocks.
Knutson had 29 and Nissen 24. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b>
<u><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Class A Notes</b>: <o:p></o:p></span></u><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Flatten Finishes Career
Strong</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">SDSU recruit<b> </b>Skyler
Flatten of Clark-Willow Lake scored 68 points in the State A Tourney, finishing
with 1,696 points in his career. He hit 21-of-52 shots from the field,
including 11-of-31 from three-point range. He knocked down 15-of-24 free
throws. He made 7-of-12 3’s vs. Spearfish in a semifinal game. He had 17
rebounds, eight assists, five steals and six blocks. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Magic of March</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In a rarity, the two lowest seeded teams defeated the top two seeds in a display of how magical March can be. #8 Platte-Geddes upset #1 Clark/Willow Lake, 66-51, as sophomore Coby Johnson scored 24 points with 11 rebounds while #7 Mobridge-Pollock upended #2 Aberdeen Roncalli, 67-52, as Mitchel Heumiller scored 26, including 3-of-4 from 3-point range..</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>A All Tourney Team</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jeff LeBeau, Pine Ridge; Brandon Kemp, Spearfish;
Dominic King, Aberdeen Roncalli; Skyler Flatten, Clark/Willow Lake; Mitchel
Heumiller, Mobridge-Pollock; Coby Johnson, Platte-Geddes; Connor Shaull, Mitchel
Nissen, and Riley Knutson, all of Tea Area; Tyler Wiebe, Mason Sullivan, and Trae Vandeberg, all of Madison<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b>
<b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Class B - White River
Handles Viborg-Hurley, 63-51, to Repeat in B<o:p></o:p></span></u></b><br />
<b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">White
River (25-1) turned back Viborg-Hurley, 63-51, and concluded a dominant run
through Class B in 2013 with a second straight championship and the fourth in
six seasons. The Tigers reached the State B’s final four for the eighth
consecutive year and reached the title game six straight seasons. White
River trailed by four early (6:10, 1<sup>st</sup> Q) but rallied for an 18-8
edge over Viborg-Hurley after one-quarter. The Tigers ran the lead to 18 and took a 35-19 lead at
the break. Viborg-Hurley outscored White River, 32-28, in the second half but
the Tigers balance – four players in double figures – prevailed. White River,
which was outrebounded, 34-18, hit 48.9% (22-of-45) from the field, including
31.3% (5-of-16) from three-point range and 83.3% (10-of-12) from the charity
stripe. The Cougars hit 40% (18-of-45)
from the field and 45.5% (5-of-11) from three-point range and 77.8% (14-of-18)
from the foul line. Viborg-Hurley was led by Tyler Gerdes with 15 points,
including 3-of-5 from deep, and six rebounds while Trevor Jacobsen had 14
points on 6-of-10 shooting from the field. Meanwhile Joe Cameron led White
River with 18 points (6-of-13 from field) with four rebounds, three steals and
three assists. Wyatt Krogman concluded a brilliant career with 16 points, six assists and two rebounds while
both Tavis Burbank and Nic Waln scored 10 points.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>White River Tourney Notes</b> – The Tigers won all three state tournament games by double digits. In the opening round the Tigers defeated Langford
Area, 51-33, and then rolled past South Central, 86-55 before the 63-51 win over Viborg-Hurley. They had an overall
margin of 200-to-139 at the State B. In the 86-53 verdict over South Central in the
semifinals, White River built a 48-22 halftime halftime lead. Krogman led White River with 15 points and seven assists while Nic Waln had 18 points (3-of-6
from 3-point range) in the win. Gilbert Morrison added 16
points (4-of-8 from 3 point range) and seven steals while Matt Gillen had a
double double with 12 points. White River hit 11-of-27 shots from three-point
range while knocking down 33-of-66 shots. Key to the win was the Tigers'
defense, which recorded 19 steals and forced South Central in 28 turnovers. In the
opening round win over Langford Area, White River led 14-3 after one quarter
and 22-9 at halftime. A 19-10 edge in the third quarter was more normal for
this high-scoring outfit. In the fourth quarter, Langford had a 14-10 edge.
Overall, White River was led by Krogman with 14 points, three rebounds, five
assists, steal and block. Joe Cameron had 14 points, eight rebounds, three
blocks while Gillen scored 10 points. Waln was held to just one basket but had
four rebounds and six steals. White River hit 19-of-45 shots from the field for
42.2%, although they were just 2-of-15 from 3-point range against Langford
Area. They made 11-of-15 from the foul line. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Tigers' State Tourney Notes</b> - In three State B games,
Krogman had 45 points, 18 assists, nine rebounds and three steals. Cameron hit
double digits twice, finishing with 37 points, eight assists, nine steals and 15
rebounds along with five blocks. Waln had 31 points, including 6-of-14
from three-point range. In the tournament as a whole, White River hit 74-of-156 shots from the
field for 47.4%, including 18-of-53 for 34% from three-point range. They also
made 34-of-49 fir 69.4% from the foul line. In addition, they had 74 rebounds,
20 steals and committed just 20 turnovers.In the postseason, White River had a 505-to-272 or 84.16-to-45.33 margin which breaks out to 38.84. So the regular season victory margin and the postseason mark was separated by just .19, amazing consistency of dominance.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>White River Season Notes</b> - In looking at the season
as a whole, the Tigers rank as one of the highest scoring teams in South Dakota
prep basketball history. White River averaged 86.69 points per game, totaling
2,254 points while allowing 1,249, or a difference of 1,005 points.
Opponents scored just 48.04 per game as White River had a 38.65 victory margin.
For the first time in school history, White River won back-to-back titles
(52-43 over Viborg-Hurley in 2012) to go
along with championships in 1955 (56-55 over Hayti), 2008 (66-50 over
Langford), and 2010 (66-63 over Hitchcock-Tulare) for five total. They also
made tournament appearances in 1949, 1956, 1993, 2006 (4th), 2007 (3rd), 2009
(2nd) and 2011 (2nd). To advance to
state, the Tigers defeated Oelrichs (20-2), 83-55, for the Region 7B title, which they won for
an eighth straight season. Earlier, they defeated Kadoka area, 120-21, and
Jones County, 102-55, in the districts. White Lake finished the season scoring 86
points or more 14 times, 90 points 10 times with six games over 100. White
River won 24-of-26 games by at least 12 points and 20 by 20 or more. They
scored 96 or more points four of its final seven games and has 88 or more in
seven of the last 13 games with four over 109 points (109, 112, 120). The
influence of head coach Eldon Marshall has been significant during this
incredible run. With this season in the books, Marshall has a career mark of
228-58 in 12 seasons, including 208-38 at White River in 10 seasons. As for
Krogman, who is headed to Black Hills State, he finished his career with 1,926
points, 780 assists and 474 rebounds. He scored 464 points this season or 17.46
per game. In his career, Krogman had at least 157 assists in four straight
seasons and 77 or more in five straight (2008-09, 77; 2009-10, 157; 2010-11,
190; 20-11-12, 172; 2012-13, 184). Krogman also has 374 steals, including 80
this season, and 16 blocks. In terms of his points per year, Krogman scored 213
in 2008-09; 314 in 2009-10; 480 in 2010-11; 465 in 2011-12; and 454 in 2012-13. He hit 49.3% from the field on 689-of-1,396 shooting. On
three-pointers, he knocked down 98-of-317 for 31% and made 450-of-651
for 69.1% from the foul line. Waln (15.34 pp, 2.2 rpg, 2.0 spg, 1.6 apg), a
second-team all-state selection a year ago, scored 395 or better in three
straight years (395, 2010-11; 448, 2011-12; and 399 in 2012-13). In his career,
Waln made 187-of-458 for 40.8% from 3-point range. Over the past three
years, he has made 54 3’s or more, including 68-of-189 in 2010-11; 54-of-109 in
2011-12 and 60-of-143 (41.9%) in 2012-13.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Viborg-Hurley State Tourney Notes</b>: Viborg-Hurley advanced to
the title game by rallying in the second half of its semifinal match up with
third-seeded Dupree. The Cougars used a 21-11 advantage to dispatch #3 Dupree
(24-2), 37-34. In the opening round, the Cougars knocked off #2 seed James Valley Christian (23-3) by
outscoring the Vikings, 10-2, in overtime for a 55-47 quarterfinal win. Against
Dupree, Jack Huether (29 points in tourney) and Trevor Jacobsen each scored 11
points while Andrew Hora had nine points and nine rebounds. Seth Anderson had a
game-high 10 rebounds while V-H's defense limited Dupree’s high scoring guard
Nate Widow to 12 points after he had a 34-point outburst in the opening round.
In the low scoring affair, the Cougars made just 13-of-45 shots for 28.8% while
Dupree hit 12-of-34 for 35%. V-H was 4-of-13 from 3 point range and Dupree,
5-of-21. At the free throw stripe, the Cougars were 3-of-6 and Dupree, 9-of-14.
Dupree led at halftime, 23-16. In a 55-47 OT quarterfinal win against #2 seed
James Valley Christian, the Cougars were led by senior Tyler Gerdes with 19
points (38 points in state tourney) and six rebounds along with two assists and
two steals. Hora was a big factor inside with 13 points, 19 rebounds, two
assists and two blocks. Huether had 12 points and three boards for V-H, which
hit 43.9% from the field on 18-of-41 shooting. They were just 4-of-19 from
3-point range and made 15-of-20 from the foul stripe.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Cougars' Tourney Stat Wrap</b>: V-H hit 49-131 for 37.4%
from the field while connecting on 13-of-43 for 30.23% from 3-point range. At
the foul line, the Cougars 32-of-44 for 72.7%. Gerdes led the team with 38
points while grabbing 17 rebounds, four assists and three steals. Jacobsen had
31 points, 10 assists, nine rebounds and three steals. Andrew Hora and Jack
Huether each score 29 points while Hora led the team with 36 reobunds and five
blocks. Hora’s 19 rebounds in the win over JVC was the best rebound total by
any player in any of the three tourneys.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Viborg-Hurley Season Wrap</b>: V-H, which defeated
Canistota, 50-44, in the Region 4B final for the second consecutive season,
made their 10th state tournament appearance. While Viborg-Hurley doesn't have a
championship in its current co-op, it can claim one with Hurley, which won a
title in 2007 over Mitchell Christian, 44-42. Otherwise, the schools have had a
combined five top-3 finishes. V-H is directed head coach Galen Schoenefeld, who
is in his 10th season (14th overall) and has a 205-127(.617) record, including a stunning 195-60 (.780) with the Cougars. Interestingly, the championship loss was
Schoenefeld’s 250<sup>th</sup> game as the Cougars coach. V-H won District 8B
with a 59-35 win over Alcester-Hudson and a 43-40 decision over Centerville in
the championship. Overall, Viborg-Hurley finished with a 1,589-to-1,133 overall
scoring edge against opponents, which breaks out to 61.11-to-43.57 ppg or a
victory margin of 17.54 ppg. The Cougars made 600-of-1,312 field goals for 45.7%,
including 149-of-441 for 33.8% from 3-point range as well as 250-of-374 for 66.8%
from the foul stripe. Jacobsen is the leading 3-point shooter at 40.9% on
45-of-110 conversions. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>Class B Notes</u></b><u> </u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Back-to-Back match ups</b> - For just the second time
in state history, two Class B squads met in back-to-back title games. White
River won both games, taking the 2013 title, 63-51, after winning 52-43 in
2012. The only other B title game with the same two teams was in 1947 and 1948 when
Webster defeated Eureka, 33-25 and 44-40. It is a rare occurrence in SD prep
history when the same two teams meet in back-to-back games. In over 100 years
of basketball, this White River-Viborg-Hurley match-up was just the sixth
meeting of the same two teams at a SD State Boys Basketball Tourney in
consecutive years. In AA, it has happened twice. The first once occurred in
1984 and 1985 when Mitchell defeated SF Washington by scores of 54-48 and
62-59. Then, in 2011 and 2012, SF O'Gorman upended Mitchell, 56-49 and
63-48. In Class A, it has happened
twice, Custer and Lennox faced off in back-to-back seasons of 1991 and 1992.
Lennox won the '91 showdown, 72-56, with Custer returning the favor in 1993,
65-58. Those two teams also met in back-to-back appearances in 2002 and 2003.
Custer won the 2002 game, 55-50, while Lennox prevailed, 49-32, in 2003.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Widow Shines and Deal Hits
1K at State B</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Dupree’s Nate Widow, who had a B tourney high of 34 points in the opener,
scored 66 for the tourney (2<sup>nd</sup> highest total) and finished his
career with 1,151 points. With his double figure total in the championship,
Kash Deal passed 1,000 points, finishing with 1,001. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Session Highs</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Arlington guard Andrew
King had nine assists (17 for tourney) vs. James Valley Christian, which was
the best total of any player in any of the tourneys. In terms of leading the
way, Kole Hawkinson of Potter County scored 29 points in the final game and had
63 for the tournament in large part due to his 13-of-23 shooting from 3-point
range. His 13 deep hits was the best total of any player in the Class B, A or AA tournament. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Hofer Shines with 74 Points</b>: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">After an OT loss in the
opener to Viborg/Hurley, Adam Hofer, who was the Spirit of Su winner in Class
B, led James Valley Christian to a consolation championship, finishing a brilliant career with 74 points, including
9-of-22 from 3-point range. Hofer, who had State B Tourney games of 29, 24 and
21 points, finished with 1,839 career points. He is headed to Dakota State
to play basketball.</span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>B State Tourney Team</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Kole Hawkinson, Potter County; Drew Planteen and Bo Fries, both of Langford Area; Adam Hofer, James Valley Christian; Tyler Frank, South Central; Kash Deal and Nate Widow, both of Dupree; Andrew Hora, Trevor Jacobson, both of Viborg/Hurley; Nick Waln, Joe Cameron, Wyatt Krogman, all of White River.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Finally, here is a breakdown of the scoring leaders at the respective tournaments.</span></u></b><br />
<b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></u></b>
<b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">AA State Tournament Leaders</span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Zach Hansen</b>, Pierre Riggs, 62 points
(30, 21, 11), 24-41 FG, 2-7 3 pt., 12-16 FT, 26 rebounds, 7 blocks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Lane Severyn</b>, Pierre Riggs, 58 points
(16, 18, 24), 18-36 FG, 8-19 3 pt., 14-20 FT, 28 rebounds, 12 assists, 3 steals<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Steve Schaeffer</b>, Rapid City Stevens, 51
points (13, 15, 23), 19-44 FG, 2-9 3 pt., 11-18 FT, 13 rebounds, 3 blocks, 2
steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Konnor Beste</b>, Brookings, 51 points (8,
40, 3), 17-29 FG, 10-18 3 pt., 7-11 FT, 16 rebounds, 7 steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Tyler Nagy</b>, Brookings, 50 points (16,
12, 22), 13-40 FG, 3-13 3 pt., 21-24 FT, 9 rebounds, 4 steals, 7 assists<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Adam Jaros</b>, Sioux Falls Lincoln, 41
points (16, 16, 9), 14-40, 6-21, 3-7, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>John Fierro</b>, Rapid City Central, 39
points (10, 17, 12), 11-32 FG, 4-11 3 pt., 13-17 FT, 6 assists, 5 rebounds, 5
steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Brandon Boggs</b>, Sioux Falls Roosevelt
(23, 1, 14), 38 points, 11-21 FG, 2-6 3 pt., 14-16 FT, 9 rebounds, 1 assist, 1
block, 5 steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Nic Peterson</b>, Brandon Valley, 38 points
(20, 15, 3), 14-34 FG, 5-15 3 pt., 5-6 FT, 6 assists, 11 rebounds, 3 steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Nathan Miller</b>, Rapid City Central, 37
points (14, 10, 13), 17-23 FG, 0-0 3 pt., 3-6 FT, 19 rebounds, 3 steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Jacob Adams</b>, Brandon Valley, 37 points
(14, 10, 13), 14-33 FG, 5-13 3 pt., 4-13 FT, 3 assists, 2 steals, block, 18
rebounds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chase Marso</b>, Brandon Valley, 36 points
(9, 10, 17), 10-41 FG, 3-17 3 pt., 13-14 FT, 7 assists, block, 10 rebounds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Justin Decker</b>, Huron, 35 points (12, 11,
12), 14-24 FG, 1-2 3 pt., 5-6 FT, 11 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 blocks, 4 steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Adam Zwanziger</b>, Huron, 31 points (7, 14,
10), 9-21 FG, 2-4 3 pt., 12-25 FT, 23 rebounds, 3 steals, 1 assist<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Tyler Howard</b>, Sioux Falls Roosevelt, 30
points (13, 10, 7), 11-30 FG, 1-7 3pt, 7-13 FT, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Nate Cole</b>, Sioux Falls Roosevelt, 30
points (8, 10, 12), 13-29 FG, 2-12 3 pt., 2-2 FT, 12 rebounds, 13 assists, 5
steals<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">A State Tournament Leaders<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Skyler Flatten</b>, Clark/Willow Lake, 68
points (19, 28, 21), 21-52 FG, 11-31 3-pt, 15-24 FT, 17 rebounds, 6 blocks, 8
assists, 6 steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Coby Johnson</b>, Platte-Geddes, 55 points
(24, 8, 23), 21-38 FG, 2-4 3 pt., 11-19 FT, 30 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 blocks, 3
steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Connor Shaull</b>, Tea Area, 53 points (23,
18, 12), 20-43 FG, 7-19 3 pt., 6-7 FT, 19 rebounds, 3 steals assist, 3 blocks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Dillon Orth</b>, Spearfish, 48 points (15,
14, 9), 18-37 FG, 4-12 3 pt., 8-15 FT, 12 rebounds, 3 assists, steal<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Jeff LeBeau,</b> Pine Ridge, 42 points (16,
12, 14), 19-37, 0-0 3 pt., 4-8 FT, 15 rebounds, 4 assists, 5 steals, 3 blocks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Mitchel Heumiller</b>, Mobridge-Pollock, 40
points (26, 5, 9), 15-34 FG, 5-11 3 pt., 5-6 FT, 11 rebounds, 10 assists, 2
steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Brandon Kemp</b>, Spearfish, 37 points (16,
14, 7), 14-41 FG, 9-31 3 pt., 0-0 FT, 13 rebounds, 6 assists, 7 steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Tyler Wiebe</b>, Madison, 36 points (15,
11, 10), 9-27 FG, 0-0 3 pt., 18-22 FT, 7 assists, 22 rebounds, 2 steals, block<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Trae Vandeberg</b>, Madison, 32 points (8, 15,
9), 11-29 FG, 1-8 3 pt., 9-16 FT, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Tyson Jenkins</b>, Clark/Willow Lake, 32
points (9, 11, 12), 13-24 FG, 0-0 3 pt., 6-13 FT, 17 rebounds, 6 blocks, 5
steals, 8 assists<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Torrey Kolden</b>, Clark/Willow Lake, 30
points (5, 10, 15), 10-20 FG, 0-0 3 pt., 10-19 FT, 18 rebounds, 8 assists, 3
steals<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">B State Tournament Leaders<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Adam Hofer</b>, James Valley Christian,
74 points (29, 24, 21), 26-54 FG, 9-22 3pt, 13-15 FT, 12 rebounds, 8 assists, 9
steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Nate Widow</b>, Dupree, 66 points (34,
12, 20), 24-54 FG, 6-16 3pt., 12-17 FT, 9 assists, 4 steals, 20 rebounds, block<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Kole Hawkinson</b>, Potter County, 62 points
(12, 21, 29), 17-29 FG, 13-23 3pt. FG, 15-18 FT, 2 reb. 4 steals <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Wyatt Krogman</b>, White River, 45 points
(14-15-16), 16-31 FG, 2-4 3pt, 11-17 FT, 18 assists, 3 steals, 9 rebounds, 1
block<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Bo Fries</b>, Langford Area, 45 points,
(11, 17, 17), 18-38 FG, 3-8 3pt, 7-11 FT), 11 assists, 14 rebounds, 4 steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Zach Warnke</b>, Arlington, 42 points (12,
17, 13), 12-23 FG, 0-2 3 pt., 18-22 FT, 33 rebounds (13, 6, 14), 2 double
doubles, 2 assists, 2 steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Andrew King</b>, Arlington, 41 points (12,
10, 19), 15-37 FG, 5-16 3 pt., 6-10 FT, 9 rebounds, 2 steals, 17 assists,
including tournament high of nine vs. James Valley Christian<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Tage Hargens</b>, Arlington, 40 points (16,
16, 8), 18-43 FG, 2-13 3 pt., 4-14 FT, 4 assists, 5 steals 13 rebounds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Tyler Gerdes,</b> Viborg-Hurley, 38 points,
(19, 15, 4), 14-27 FG, 3-9 3 pt, 7-11 FT, 17 reb., 4 assists, 3 steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Drew Planteen</b>, Langford Area, 37 points,
(12, 14, 11), 11-22 FG, 11-16 FT), 17 rebounds, 8 blocks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Joe Cameron</b>, White River, 37 points,
(14, 5, 18), 13-27 FG, 4-12 3pt, 7-8 FT, 8 assists, 9 steals, 15 rebounds, 5
blocks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Chayce Hall</b>, Potter County, 37 points,
15-49 FG, 1-9 3pt, 6-14 FT, 7 assists, 12 rebounds, 5 steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Tate Nafziger</b>, Potter County, 34 points,
11-22 FG, 1-1 3pt, 11-19 FT, 18 rebounds, 8 assists, 6 steals, 2 blocks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Trevor Jacobsen</b>, Viborg-Hurley, 31 points,
(6, 11, 14), 10-25 FG, 3-11 3pt. 8-10 FT, 10 assists, 9 rebounds, 3 steals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Kash Deal</b>, Dupree, 31 points (12, 7,
12), 13-23 FG, 2-6 3 pt, 3-6 FT, 14 rebounds, 6 assists, 10 steals, block<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Andrew Hora</b>, Viborg-Hurley, 29 points,
(13, 9, 7), 9-23 FG, 1-8 3 pt, 10-12 FT, 36 rebounds, 5 blocks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Jack Huether</b>, Viborg-Hurley, 29 points
(12, 11, 6), 8-20 FG, 5-13 3 pt, 8-10 FT, 10 rebounds, 2 assists<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-43444974984556742122013-03-19T17:27:00.000-07:002013-03-20T11:51:58.233-07:00Oh to be at Auburn Hills Again - SDSU-MIchigan Should be FunWith the South Dakota State Jackrabbits men's team headed to the Palace at Auburn Hills to play in the Big Dance on Thursday, I was reminded me of my own adventure to Detroit in 2000.<br />
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Thirteen years ago, I worked as a sports information assistant (game notes) at the 2000 NCAA Midwest Regional (semifinals/finals) won by Michigan State, the eventual national champion.<br />
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With the NCAA Tournament set up a bit different these days, Michigan State will again play at the Palace in the Midwest Regional. Also at the Palace will be the game featuring SDSU, a #13 seed, and # 4 Michigan, making their 24th appearance, as part of the South Region.<br />
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Like a year ago, SDSU, led by one of the nation's top point guards in Nate Wolters, is a trending upset pick. Some are suggesting with good reason that Wolters and his mates could cause problems for Michigan (26-7), which has its own standout point guard in Trey Burke (19.2 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 6.7 apg), the Big Ten Player of the Year and Sports Illustrated National Player of the Year. The game is in Michigan's backyard with the Palace just 50 miles from their campus. Still, Michigan, once ranked #1, is just 6-6 in its last 12 games. Besides Burke the Wolverines will feature Tim Hardaway, Jr. (14.8 ppg, 4.7 rpg), Nick Stauskas (11.5 ppg, 3.2 rpg) and Glenn Robinson, III (10.7 ppg, 5.4 rpg). Remember that Burke (65), Hardaway (71) and Stauskas (60) all have hit over 60 3's on the season and Michigan is hitting 38.3% from deep (247-645). And, yes, Hardaway and Robinson are the sons and namesakes of the former NBA stars. Also note of that 6-6 mark, they had a one-point loss to Indiana (one of four #1 seeds) and a one-point home win over third-seeded Michigan State.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nate Wolters of South Dakota State</td></tr>
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Scott Nagy's SDSU squad (25-9), which won the Summit League Tourney for a second straight year, has a shot because of the explosive senior guard Wolters (22.7 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 5.2 apg, 2,353 career points and 663 career assists), who was the Summit League Player of the Year. Other Jackrabbit weapons include junior all-league forward Jordan Dykstra (12.5 ppg, 7.9 ppg, 1,137 career points) and senior Summit League honorable mention selection Tony Feigen (10.1 ppg, 5.5 rpg). Remember folks that SDSU, which is making a second straight NCAA Tournament appearance, pushed the Big 12's Baylor a year ago in the Big Dance before falling 68-60 in a first round game.<br />
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I wish I was back in Detroit for this one. I have a feeling that Wolters will show up in a big-time way, further dazzling NBA scouts. Whether the Jackrabbits advance is a tough call. They could play extremely well and still lose to a talented Michigan team, regardless of recent results.<br />
<br />
Anyway back to the 2000 region. In that final Tom Izzo's Michigan State continued their run to a NCAA championship behind the play of Mateen Cleaves and Morris Peterson. The Spartans defeated Iowa State, 75-64, in the regional final. Remember if you will that Cyclones team was directed by head coach Larry Eustachy and led by future NBA players Jamaal Tinsley and Marcus Fizer.<br />
<br />
Besides Peterson and Cleaves, MSU featured Charlie Bell, A.J. Granger, Andrew Hutson and Jason Richardson (later NBA star). In the regional championship, MSU overcame an eight-point second half deficit (48-40 with 12 minutes left). In the final 4:50, MSU outscored the Cyclones, 20-3, and in the final moments of the game Eustachy received two technical fouls and was ejected.<br />
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Also at Auburn Hills in 2000 was Syracuse and Jim Boeheim, along with UCLA (Jaron Bush, Matt Barnes, Jason Kapono, Earl Watson and coach Steve Lavin). Those teams are part of the 2013 field, just not at Auburn Hills.<br />
<br />
2000, you all might remember, was the year Gonzaga made a run to the West Regional Elite 16 while Duke and Florida vied for the East regional and North Carolina, Miami, Fla., Tennessee and Tulsa battled in the South. The Final Four was Carolina, Florida, Wisconsin and Michigan State, which defeated the Gators for the title inIndianapolis.<br />
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Now 13 years later, Gonzaga is the #1 team in the country and earned a #1 seed. It is the first time that a mid-major has been ranked #1. Florida, Michigan State, Miami and Duke are again among the favorites to take home the hardware.<br />
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Back then, the regional program cost $7. I imagine that has changed. But the one thing that won't change is the nation will again be glued to games in Auburn Hills. And, a lot of eyes will be focused on Wolters and Burke.<br />
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I will be watching too...just in front of a TV set in western Sioux Falls.<br />
<br />
I will think a little about that classic battle between two ag-based schools in 2000. And, yes, I will recall that the cowbells were ringing as the fans from Ames and East Lansing gathered on championship night.<br />
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This time more bells are liking to be rung in a State-U battle of a different kind.<br />
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Both schools will sing the "blues," although with a lot of cheer and spirit.<br />
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University of Michigan vs. South Dakota State.<br />
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Should be interesting with SDSU faithful chanting "Naters Gonna Nate" (and I imagine some cowbells) and its popular theme of "Go Big, Go Blue, Go Jacks" along with a lot of South Dakota pride and passion. And, Wolverines nation will offer up "Lets Go Blue" and "Go Michigan," in its own "Pure Michigan" energy.<br />
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Can't wait.The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-83033656316018554322013-03-16T09:28:00.000-07:002013-03-16T13:40:55.216-07:00SD Boys BB State Tourney Notes - BV, Pierre Meet in State AA; Tea Area and Madison in A; and White River and Viborg-Hurley in B<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">AA – Brandon Valley,
Pierre Meet in ESD Showdown in AA Final</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">@ Sioux Falls Arena</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">#2 Pierre (20-5) vs. #5 Brandon Valley (19-6)</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">Brandon Valley Notes: </span></b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">The Lynx</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">(19-6),
which has won nine straight games, are hot. The Lynx, led by 15 points from Nic
Petersen, advanced to the AA title game with #2
Pierre (19-5) by knocking off the #1 seed SF Roosevelt, 57-51. In the AA tourney, Peterson has scored 35 points and made 13-of-22 field
goals, including 4-of-7 from three-point range, in leading the Brandon Valley
to the championship game. </span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14.399999618530273px;">In two State AA Tourney games, Brandon Valley has made 40-of-88 shots from the field for 45.5 percent. In addition, they are 8-of-26 from 3-point range even though sharpshooter Chase Marso is 0-8 from long distance. The Lynx have made 31-of-47 (65.9%) free throws as penetration to the basket as led to numerous opportunities at the charity stripe. Against Roosevelt,</span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 14.399999618530273px;"> </span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;"> Jacob Adams also played a huge role with 14 points (24 points, 14 rebounds in the tourney)
and 10 rebounds while Chase Marso had 10 points (19 points in the tourney),
three rebounds and three assists. In the semifinal upset, BV shot just
35.7 percent but also held Roosevelt to 36.7%. Both teams had trouble from 3
with BV knocking down 5-of-17 and Roosevelt, 4-of-21. The key factors in the
win over Roosevelt, which had defeated 20 straight South Dakota opponents, was
rebounds and free throws. The Lynx made 22-of-30 from the charity stripe for 73.3%,
although Adams missed six straight in the 30 seconds after BV had built a six-point lead. Brandon Valley trailed 51-49 late before outscoring the Rough
Riders, 8-0 over the final 2:33. The Lynx had a 39-23 advantage in rebounds,
including 16 offensive boards. Roosevelt made 11-of-16 free throws. While BV
had some problems with the Roosevelt pressure, they also forced mistakes with both teams committing 13 turnovers. Led by Nic Peterson's 20 points, BV moved into the semifinal round with a 62-29 win over #4 seed Huron. BV advanced to the AA tourney by defeating SF
Washington, 56-43, and SF Lincoln, 71-43. The Lynx, which has 10 wins by double
figures, own a 1,344-to-1,160 scoring differential, which breaks out to 56.0-to-48.333
or a 7.67 victory margin. Directed by 12th-year coach Brent Deckert, Brandon Valley is
making their 11th tourney appearance. The Lynx last won a state title in 1998
with a 63-58 decision over O'Gorman. The school’s last trip to the title game
was in 2003. BV has made state tourney appearances in 2013, 2011, 2010, 2007,
2006, 2003, 1998, 1997 (third), 1992, 1990 (third), 1975, and 1965 (third). For the season, Lynx are hitting 41% from the field on 459-of-1,070 shooting, including 31% (130-of-421)
on 3-point shooting. They have hit 61.0% (259-of-424) from the charity stripe.
Chase Marso leads the team in scoring with 16.83 ppg (404 points) and 4.2 rpg.
He has hit 41.5% (145-of-349) from the field, including 54-of-156 for 34% from
3-point range, although he has failed to knock one home in the AA tourney. Marso has seven games over 20 points, including two with 30
points or more. His high is 36 points vs. Rapid City Central when he knocked
home 9-of-14 from 3-point range. Five times, he has hit four or more 3’s in a
game. Junior Jacob Adams, who has 17 double digit scoring games, including two
straight in the state tourney, has a high of 27 vs. Lincoln on Jan. 25,
averages 12.46 ppg (299 points) with 5.7 rpg. Nic Peterson, who has 16 double
figure scoring games, including two in the tourney, has a high of 26 vs.
Lincoln on March 1, averages 11.96 ppg (287 points) with 3.7 rebounds per game.
He has made 42-of-122 for 34% from 3-point range. Senior Adam Bauer has
averaged 5.9 ppg, 3.4 apg and 3.1 rpg while Jacob Bruget provides 3.3 ppg and
4.3 rpg for the Lynx.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lane Severyn has 1,444 career points.</td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">Pierre Riggs Notes</span></b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">: The Governors (20-5), the preseason #1, has
advanced into the AA championship game with Brandon Valley after a 47-45 win
over Sioux Falls Lincoln. Two free throws by Zach Hansen with 3.8 seconds to go
provided the difference. Pierre forced a Lincoln turnovers with 22 seconds left
in a tie game. Hansen scored 21 points, hitting 8-of-15 field goals, and
grabbed six rebounds, while his running mate Lane Severyn added 18 points and
eight rebounds. Pierre hit 16-of-45 shots from the field for 35.6%, while
hitting just 1-of-13 from three-point range. They were 14-of-18 from the foul
like. Adam Jaros led Lincoln with 16 points while Nermin Krdzalic had 10.
Earlier in the tourney, Pierre, the #2 seed, registered a 60-47 win over Rapid
City Central. In the victory, Hansen scored 30 points and
had seven rebounds while Severyn added 16 points and 11 boards. Hansen
made 14-of-20 shots from the field, including a three-pointer, and had two
blocks. Pierre converted 24-of-55 shots from the field for 43.6%, including 7-of-22
from three-point range. For the two
games, Pierre has made 40-of-90 shots for 44.4%, including 8-of-35 (22.8%) from
three-point range and 19-of-27 (70.3%) from the foul stripe. This is Pierre’s 38<sup>th</sup>
appearance in the state AA tourney. To get to the Sioux Falls Arena, Pierre defeated
Aberdeen Central, 61-38, and Huron, 49-48, to win Districts. The Governors,
which last won a state crown in 1982 (Rapid City Central, 56-43) and also have
titles in 1979 (Rapid City Central, 68-57) and 1944 (Huron, 29-28), has lost
five games by a combined 11 points this year. The Governors, directed by head
coach Terry Becker, may feel that they are also a team with a great title shot.
They have 17 wins in 18 games with 14 by double figure totals. Pierre has
a 1,528-to-1,238 scoring differential, which breaks out to 63.67-to-51.58 ppg
or a per game victory margin of 12.09. Severyn and Hansen are headed to
SDSU and Creighton, respectively, to play basketball and have been the leaders for Pierre. In two games, Hansen has 51 points and 13 rebounds while Severyn has 34 points and and 19 boards. Severyn now has 1,462 career points (Pierre school
record), 652 rebounds (Pierre school record) and 193 3-point field goals. He
has 494 points (20.58 ppg) and 202 rebounds (8.7 rpg) this season. Hansen has
1,351 points (2nd all-time at Pierre) with 644 rebounds. He has 488 points
(20.33 ppg) and 193 rebounds (8.1 rpg). Pierre also features Austin
Christopherson (4.5 ppg, 2.4 rpg), Nick Rabern (3.0 ppg), Garret Pochop (4.0
ppg, 4.0 apg) along with Cooper Walton (5.4 ppg, 3.2 rpg), Cody Honeywell (4.0
ppg) among others.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">AA Notes</span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;"> – Brookings Konnor Beste had a career-high 40
points in a 73-61 consolation win by the Bobcats over Rapid City Central on
Friday. He made 14-of-20 shots from the field, including 8-of-11 from
three-point range. The point total and three-point conversions are the best
among all players in any of the state tourneys ongoing in 2013. Beste’s total
may be the best ever by a bench player at a state tournament. On Saturday, the AA Tourney will be treated to a pair of city rivalries. In the 7th-place game, Rapid City Stevens defeated the Rapid City Cobblers, 56-50. With the win, Stevens earned a split in four games with the Cobblers. RC Central won a 48-47 OT game in the Districts while Stevens returned the favor with the state tournament win. Today, Steve Schaefer scored 23 points and now has 51 points (13, 15, 23) in the three games of the tournament. Tonight's third-place game features pre-tourney favorite and top-ranked Roosevelt (22-2) with Sioux Falls Lincoln (13-12) in an inter-city Sioux Falls battle. During the regular season, Roosevelt won both games, 63-49, in a season finale at home and 64-62 in OT at Lincoln High School. The game will be the swan song for Roosevelt seniors Brandon Boggs, Tyler Howard (1,010 career points), Jeremiah Clark and Nate Cole. Playing their final prep game for the Patriots will be Adam Jaros (32 points in AA Tourney; 6-of-15 from 3), Nermin Krdzalic and Luke Meyers.</span></i><i><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">Class A – Tea Area, Madison Face
Off for A Crown<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">Two schools about 40 miles apart
will meet in the Class A title game as Madison (23-2) faces off with Tea Area
(22-3) in what will be a game featuring two athletic teams, both who force
turnovers and enter the game with momentum. Madison has won 10 straight while
Tea Area has 12 straight wins and has picked up wins in 16-of-17 games. These
two squads did not meet in the regular season.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">@ Rapid City Rushmore Plaza Civic
Center<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">#5 Tea Area (22-3) vs. #3 Madison (23-2)
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;"><b>Madison Notes: </b>The Bulldogs<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">(23-2) won their 10th
straight as the Bulldogs rolled into the State A championship game for the
first time since winning back-to-back titles in 2009 and 2010. Madison rolled
to a 66-30 win over Mobridge-Pollock in the semifinals as Trae Vandeberg had 15
points (6-of-12 on field goals), Tyler Wiebe with 15 and Jacob Giles, 11.
Madison had advanced to the semifinals with a 70-34 decision over Pine Ridge
(14-10). In all the 10 consecutive wins, Madison has won by at least
13 points or more. In addition, they now have won 21 games this season by
double figure totals with 14 by 20 points or more. Madison, which is making
their 23<sup>rd</sup> state tournament appearance, has been ranked in the
top-five all season and is the top remaining seed in the Class A tourney.
Madison has won four championships in 1921 (29-21 over Mitchell), 1945 (30-28
over Webster), 2009 (48-40 over Platte-Geddes) and most recently in 2010 (58-47
over St. Thomas More). The Bulldogs have finished runner-up five times for 10
total championship game appearances. They advanced to the State A with a 69-52
win over Dell Rapids in Region 3A. They claimed District 5B with a 101-42 win
over Flandreau Indian School and then hammered Elkton-Lake Benton, 84-62. Madison,
directed 8th-year head coach Michael Ricke (177-39, .819), the Bulldogs have
compiled an impressive 400-to-220 ppg margin in postseason play or 80.0 ppg to
44 ppg . The Bulldogs own a 1,710 ppg-to-1,132 scoring differential or 68.4-to-45.28
ppg, which breaks out to a Class A-best 23.12 points per game victory margin. Against
Mobridge-Pollock, Madison opened the game on a 12-0 run and were never
threatened by the Tigers, which had knocked off #2 seed Aberdeen Roncalli in
the quarterfinals. In the win, Madison hit 25-of-61 shots for 41%, including 4-of-10
from three-point range. They were 12-of-17 for 70.59%. They held
Mobridge-Pollock to 23.4% (11-of-47) shooting from the field and 4-of-13 for
31% from three-point range. The Tigers did not have a player in double digits.
In the quarterfinal win over Pine Ridge, Madison rolled to a 46-16 halftime
lead and was never threatened. They were led by Tyler Wiebe with 15 points
while Jesse Brown had 12 points and 10 rebounds. In the state tournament, Madison
has been dominant with a 136-64 margin and two wins by 36 points each time.
Individually, Wiebe has 30 points while VandeBerg has 23 and Brown, 17
points and 20 rebounds. Overall this season, Madison is led by a duo of double digit scorers
including Trae Vandeberg at 11.6 ppg and 5.2 rpg. He is one of six Madison
players with at least 14 3’s on the season. Vandeberg is shooting 50.2% (104-of-207)
from the floor, including 20-of-55 for 36.4% from long distance. He is also a 71.4%
shooter from the foul line on 50-of-70 shooting. Brown puts in 11.0 ppg
while hauling in 6.7 rebounds. He has hit 50% from the floor (112-of-224). Wiebe averages 9.3 ppg and 8.6 rpg (team-high). Giles (7.4 ppg, 3.4
rpg), Mason Sullivan (8.4 ppg, 2.4 rpg), Braxton Olson (8.1 ppg, 3.3 rpg)
and Preston Nordling (5.3 ppg) are all major contributors on a deep and
balanced team. Aside from Vandeberg,
Nordling (11-of-44), Olson (21-of-52), Eli Roemen (17-of-52), Giles (15-of-43)
and Sullivan (18-of-43) have double digit 3-point conversions. Madison is
shooting 45.97% (661-of-1,438) from the field, They outrebound opponents,
36.7-to-22.0.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">Tea Area Notes: </span></b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">The Titans</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">(22-3),
which are led by head coach Chris Fechner (2<sup>nd</sup> season at Tea; 12<sup>th</sup>
overall, 112-81), will make the school’s first-ever State A Championship
appearance. They advanced to the title game with a dominating 65-33 decision
over Platte-Geddes (16-8), which had knocked off the #1 seed Clark-Willow Lake 66-51, in a quarterfinal #1 vs. #8 match-up. Tea Area advanced to the Class A semifinals with a 60-53 win
over #4 seed Spearfish (18-6). In the win over Platte-Geddes, Tea Area trailed 16-14 in
the second quarter before they had a 16-1 run and never were threatened thereafter. After
leading 30-17 at the break, Tea Area outscored the Black Panthers, 35-16 in the
second half. Once again team was led by standout forward Connor Shaull with 20
points and five rebounds. They hit 22-of-55 shots from the field for 40% but
made just 3-of-15 shots from three-point range. They were 18-of-27 from the
foul line for 66.7%. While Platte Geddes had a 39-32 edge in rebounding, Tea
Area dominated on defense, forcing 29 turnovers, including 17 through steals. The Titans also had seven blocks. In the semifinal win, Tea Area was
paced by Shaull, who had 23 points and seven rebounds, hitting 3-of-9 from
three-point range. Overall, he made 8-of-16 field goals. Riley Knutson added 11
points for the Titans. In the State A Tourney, Tea Area has a 125-to-86 points
per game advantage. They have hit 43-of-97 field goals for 44.3%, including 7-of-27
for 25.9% from 3-point range and 32-of-51 for 62.7% from the foul line. Defense
has been Tea Area’s main attribute in the tourney. They have forced 49
turnovers by means of 34 steals and 11 total blocks. Shaull has 43 points to
lead Tea Area while Knutson has 17 and Nissen has 13 points and 11 boards. To
get to State, Tea Area rallied to defeat Dakota Valley, 57-55, in the Region 4A
final. Tea Area advanced to the region final with a 57-38 win over Lennox. The
Titans nearly went out in the first round, needing a last-second shot to slide
by Harrisburg, 45-43. Tea Area owns a 1,514-to-1,141 scoring differential,
which breaks out to a 60.56-to.45.64 edge and a victory margin of 14.92. The
Titans have won 13 games by double figure totals and eight by 20 points or
more. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">Class A Notes:</span></b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;"> <i>Skyler Flatten
of Clark-Willow Lake scored 28 points in a consolation round win over Spearfish
(61-53) and now has 47 points in the tournament. He has built his career total
to 1,675 and has a shot at 1,700 points for his career. In the tournament,
Flatten is shooting 15-of-37 from the field, including 8-of-24 from 3-point
range. He made 7-of-12 3’s vs. Spearfish</i>.<span class="apple-converted-space"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">Class B - White River, Viborg-Hurley
Meet for Title</span></b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">For just
the second time in state history, two Class B squads will meet in back-to-back title games as White River faces Viborg-Hurley tonight. White River won the 2012 matchup, 52-43. The only other B matchup of the same two teams was in 1947 and 1948 when</span></i><i><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;"> Webster defeated Eureka, 33-25 and 44-40. </span></i><i><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">In fact, it is a rare occurence in SD prep history when the same two teams meet in back-to-back games. In over 100 years of basketball, this White River-Viborg-Hurley match-up is just the sixth meeting of the same two teams at a SD State Boys Basketball Tourney in consecutive years. In AA, it has happened twice. The first once occurred in 1984 and 1985 when Mitchell defeated SF Washington by scores of 54-48 and 62-59. Then, in 2011 and 2012, SF O'Gorman upended Mitchell, 56-49 and 63-48. In Class A, it has happened twice, Custer and Lennox faced off in back-to-back seasons of 1991 and 1992. Lennox won the '91 showdown, 72-56, with Custer returning the favor in 1993, 65-58. Those two teams also met in back-to-back appearances in 2002 and 2003. Custer won the 2002 game, 55-50, while Lennox prevailed, 49-32, in 2003. Also on the B title game, t<o:p></o:p></span></i><i><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">his will be Viborg-Hurley’s third straight title game appearance, second in a row in Class B. They were in the A final two years ago (63-47 loss to St. Thomas More). Meanwhile, White River seeks a second straight title and fourth in six years. These two teams did not play during the regular season.</span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">@ Barnett Center in Aberdeen<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">#1 White River (24-1) vs #7 Viborg-Hurley (23-2) <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">White
River Notes</span></b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">: The top-ranked and defending
champion Tigers (24-1) reached the State B’s final four for the eighth
consecutive year and now have reached the title game six straight seasons as
they go for their fourth title in that span and fifth overall. It is quite an
accomplishment for head coach Eldon Marshall and his White River contingent.
The Tigers defeated Langford Area, 51-33, and then rolled past South Central,
86-55. One day after scoring a season-low 51 points, White River was more
itself with 86 points, building a 48-22 halftime lead. Wyatt Krogman had 15 points and
seven assists while Nic Waln had 18 points (3-of-6 from 3-point range) in the win. Also for White River, Gilbert Morrison had 16 points (4-of-8 from 3 point range) and seven steals
while Matt Gillen had a double double with 12 points. White River hit 11-of-27
shots from three-point range while knocking down 33-of-66 shots. Key to the win was the Tigers' defense, which recorded 19 steals and forced South Central in 28 turnovers. In the opening round win
over Langford Area, White River led 14-3 after one quarter and 22-9 at
halftime. A 19-10 edge in the third quarter was more normal for this
high-scoring outfit. In the fourth quarter, Langford had a 14-10 edge. Overall,
White River was led by Krogman with 14 points, three rebounds, five
assists, steal and block. Joe Cameron had 14 points, eight rebounds, three
blocks while Gillen scored 10 points. Waln was held
to just one basket but had four rebounds and six steals. White River hit
19-of-45 shots from the field for 42.2%, although they were just 2-of-15 from
3-point range against Langford Area. They made 11-of-15 from the foul line. Langford Area was led by
Bo Fries with 11 points and Drew Planteen with 12. In two State B games, Krogman has 29
points, 12 assists, six rebounds and three steals. Matt Gillen has 22 points
while Nic Waln has 21. In two games, White River has scored 137 points, hit
52-of-111 shots for 46.8%, including 13-of-42 from three for 30.9% and 25-of-35
of 71.4% from the foul line. In looking at the season as a whole, the Tigers rank as one of the highest
scoring teams in South Dakota prep basketball history. As they seek their
second consecutive “B” crown, White River brings in an 87.64 points per game
average. They have totaled 2,191 points on the season, while allowing 1,198, or
47.92 ppg. White River won state titles
in 1955 (56-55 over Hayti), 2008 (66-50 over Langford), 2010 (66-63 over
Hitchcock-Tulare), and 2012 (52-43 over Viborg-Hurley) and is looking for a
fifth this year. They also made tournament appearances in 1949, 1956, 1993, 2006
(4<sup>th</sup>), 2007 (3rd), 2009 (2nd) and 2011 (2nd). The Tigers defeated Oelrichs (20-2), 83-55, to
win the Region 7B title for the eighth straight season. Earlier, they defeated
Kadoka area, 120-21, and Jones County, 102-55, in the districts. The Tigers have scored 86 points or more 14 times, 90
points 10 times with six games over 100. The defending champs, who will be
looking to win their fourth title in six years, have a 39.72 points per game
victory margin. White River has won 23-of-25 games by at least 12 points and 20
by 20 or more. They have scored 96 or more points four of six games and has 88
or more in seven of the last 12 games with four over 109 points (109, 112,
120). White River, led by head coach Eldon Marshall (227-58, 12 seasons; 207-38
at White River, 10 seasons), features all-state guard Krogman, a magician
on the floor, who is headed to Black Hills State. He averages 17.52 ppg (438
points) with 2.3 rpg and 7.2 apg. He has totaled 1,910 points (14.8 ppg career
average) with 471 rebounds, 774 assists. He has had at least 157 assists in
four straight seasons and 77 or more in five straight (2008-09, 77; 2009-10,
157; 2010-11, 190; 20-11-12, 172; 2012-13, 178). Krogman also has 374 steals,
including 80 this season, and 16 blocks. In terms of his points per year,
Krogman scored 213 in 2008-09; 314 in 2009-10; 480 in 2010-11; 465 in 2011-12;
and 438 in 2012-13. That is three straight seasons of at least 438 points or
more for the standout guard. He has hit 49.3% from the field on 684-of-1,387
shooting. On three-pointers, he has knocked down 97-of-316 for 31% and has hit 445-of-643
for 69.2% from the foul line. Waln, a second-team all-state selection a
year ago, averages 15.56 ppg, 2.2 rpg, 2.0 spg and 1.6 apg, and now has 1,274
career points. He has scored 371 or better in three straight years (395,
2010-11; 448, 2011-12; and 389 in 2012-13). In his career, Waln has made 185-of-453 for 40.8% from 3-point range. Over
the past three years, he has made 54 3’s or more, including 68-of-189 in 2010-11;
54-of-109 in 2011-12 and 58-of-140 (41.4%) in 2012-13. Guard Joe Cameron, who
had a season-high 34 points in a win over James Valley Christian,
averages 16.2 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 3.2 apg, 3.2 spg. Center Tavis Burbank averages
10.2 ppg and 7.4 rebounds while forward Matt Gillen puts up 8.7 ppg, 7.8 rpg
and 1.7 spg. Burbank is hitting 68% from the floor with all four starters with
50 percent or better from the field. On the bench, Gilbert Morrison hits 9.1
ppg while grabbing 2.7 rpg. Tre Iyotte provides 4.9 ppg while Cory Rogers
scores 2.7 ppg. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">Viborg-Hurley</span></b><span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"> Notes</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">: Viborg-Hurley </span></span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">(23-2) advanced to a third straight title game in two classes.
They will play top-ranked White River in a rematch of last year’s game. Viborg-Hurley
rallied in the second half with a 21-11 advantage to dispatch #3 Dupree (23-2) and
star guard Nate Widow by a 37-34 final. In the opening round, the Cougars
knocked off #2 seed James Valley
Christian (22-3), 10-2, in overtime for a 55-47 quarterfinal win. Viborg-Hurley is not
a normal #7 seed given the fact they were ranked in the top-five all season, have made two straight title game appearances in two classes and have only lost to
Canistota (which they defeated in the regions) and JVC at the Hanson Classic this season.
Against Dupree, Jack Huether (23 points in tourney) and Trevor Jacobsen each
scored 11 points while Andrew Hora had nine points and nine rebounds (22
points, 28 rebounds in two state tourney games). Seth Anderson had 10 rebounds while V-H's defense limited Dupree’s high scoring guard Nate Widow to 12 points after a 34-point outburst in the opening round. In the low scoring affair, the Cougars made just 13-of-45 shots for 28.8% while
Dupree hit 12-of-34 for 35%. V-H was 4-of-13 from 3 point range and Dupree,
5-of-21. At the free throw stripe, the Cougars were 3-of-6 and Dupree, 9-of-14.
Dupree led at halftime, 23-16. In a 55-47 OT quarterfinal win against #2 seed James Valley Christian, the Cougars were led by
senior Tyler Gerdes with 19 points (23 points in two games) and six rebounds
along with two assists and two steals. Gerdes hit 8-of-10 shots frok </span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">m the field. Hora was a big factor inside with 13 points, 19 rebounds, two assists and two blocks. </span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">Huether had 12 points and three boards for V-H, which hit
43.9% from the field on 18-of-41 shooting. They were just 4-of-19 from 3-point
range and made 15-of-20 from the foul stripe. In the state tourney, V-H has hit
31-86 for 36.04% from the field while hitting 8-of-32 for 25% from 3-point
range. At the foul line, the Cougars 18-of-26 for 69.2%. V-H is led by 6-6
forward Andrew Hora (13.6 ppg, 8.5 rpg, 1.5 bpg), forward Tyler Gerdes (10.2
ppg, 2.5 rpg, 1.7 apg) and guards Jack Huether (10.8 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 1.7 apg) and Trevor
Jacobsen (10.6 ppg, 1.7 rpg, 1.5 spg). V-H, which defeated Canistota, 50-44, in
the Region 4B final, is making make a 10th state tournament appearance. While
Viborg-Hurley doesn't have a championship in its current co-op, it can
claim one with Hurley, which won a title in 2007 over Mitchell Christian,
44-42. Otherwise, the schools have had a combined four top-3 finishes. V-H is
led by head coach </span><span style="color: #231f20; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Garamond;">Galen Schoenefeld, who is in his
10<sup>th</sup> season (14<sup>th</sup> overall) and has a 205-126 record,
including 195-59 with the Cougars. </span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">V-H won District 8B with a 59-35 win over Alcester-Hudson and a
43-40 decision over Centerville in the championship. Overall, Viborg-Hurley has
a 1,538-to-1,070 overall scoring edge against opponents, which breaks out
to 61.52-to-42.8 ppg or a victory margin of 18.72 ppg. This squad has made 582-of-1,267
field goals for 45.9%, including 144-of-430 for 33.5% from 3-point range as
well as 236-of-356 for 63.2% from the foul stripe. Jacobsen is the leading
3-point shooter at 42.4% on 45-of-109 conversions. Four players have at least
20 three-pointers on the season. Huether has 30 (80 att.), Hora, 23 (71 att.)
and Gerdes, 20 (63 att.).</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">B Notes: </span></b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">Dupree<span class="apple-converted-space"><b> </b></span></span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 11pt;">(23-2) lost for the first time to a South
Dakota opponent and had a 20-game winning streak snapped. Nate Widow scored 12
points vs. Viborg-Hurley and now has 1,131 points. Kash Deal had seven points
to push his career total to 989. Potter County won the 7th-place game over Arlington, 72-62 behind 29 points from Kole Hawkinson, who had 63 points in the tourney. He was 13-of-23 from 3-point range in the State B Tourney. James Valley Christian won 5th place at B in a 49-45 win over Langford Area as Adam Hofer concluded a brilliant career with 74 points, including 9-of-22 from 3-point range. Hofer, who had State B Tourney games of 29, 24 and 21 points, finished with 1,839 career points. The Vikings rallied from a 14-point deficit to claim the consolation championship.</span></div>
The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-34039906020239265552013-03-15T13:46:00.002-07:002013-03-15T14:37:13.476-07:00Game Notes - SD Boys Basketball State Tourneys Hit Semi-finals<br />
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">The South Dakota Boys Basketball State Tourneys opened Thursday with several teams donning the "Cinderella slipper." In 12 first-round match-ups across three classes, just five seeded teams stayed alive for a shot at the championships. The top two ranked teams in Class A - #1 Clark/Willow Lake and #2 Aberdeen Roncalli - lost as did #4 Spearfish in the opening round. In Class AA, #3 Brookings fell as did #4 Huron. In Class B, #1 White River and #3 Dupree moved on while the #2 (James Valley Christian) and #4 (Potter County) teams fell. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">So what is in store for tonight? Should be interesting. Two top seeds, Roosevelt and White River, are alive while #3 Madison in the top seed in Class A left to contend for a title. Should be fun.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">AA – Roosevelt, Brandon Valley,
Pierre and Lincoln Advance to Semis</span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">Sioux Falls Roosevelt, Class AA’s top seed, has advanced to the
semifinals with an impressive opening win (73-43 over Rapid City Stevens). They
will meet Brandon Valley, winner of eight straight, which advanced in a big win
over Huron. Pierre, led by Zach Hansen’s 30 points, also move into the final
four where they meet SF Lincoln, which upset #3 seed Brookings.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">@ Sioux Falls Arena<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">#1 Sioux Falls Roosevelt (22-1) vs.
#5 Brandon Valley (17-6)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">#2 Pierre (18-5) vs. #6 Sioux Falls
Lincoln (13-11)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">#1 <b>Sioux
Falls Roosevelt Notes: </b> Lee Taylor's
Rough Riders squad (22-1) advanced to the AA semifinals with a convincing 73-43
win over Rapid City Stevens (10-14). The Rough Riders will now face Brandon
Valley, a team they defeated 82-55 earlier this season. Roosevelt has won six
of seven games by double digits and four by 20. The Rough Riders were led by
Brandon Boggs who scored 23 points on 8-of-11 shooting from the field. He was
6-of-6 from the foul line. Tyler Howard scored 13 points to hit the 1,000 point
milestone on the nose and become Roosevelt’s second player in history to
accomplish the feat (John Sivisend, 1,382, 1992-96). He also had seven rebounds
and two assists. Nate Cole had 12 points, six assists and two rebounds. Off the
bench the Rough Riders received a big contribution from Colton Kooima, who
averages 3.9 ppg but had 15 points, knocking down 5-of-7 from 3-point range.
Overall the Riders were 27-of-55 from the field for 49.1%, including 9-of-20 for
45% from the 3-point line. At the foul line, Roosevelt finished 10-of-13. The
Rough Riders, which led 32-22 at halftime, outscored the Raiders, 41-21, in the
second half. Roosevelt had a 36-12 edge in the paint and a 12-2 margin over
fast-break points. Steven Schaeffer had 13 for Rapid City. As they head to the
semifinals, Roosevelt has not lost to a South Dakota opponent this season,
improving to 20-0 vs in-state opponents. Howard leads the team with 12.6 ppg
with 2.9 rpg, hitting 51% from the field. Guard Nate Cole averages 11.4 ppg and
has team-highs in assists (95) and steals (55) while making 81% from the foul
stripe. Brandon Boggs is scoring 11.1 ppg and grabbing 5.3 rpg while making 47%
from the field. Also scoring in double digits is guard Jeremiah Clark at 10.2
ppg. Clark, who has 56 assists, hits 52% from the field and 77% at the charity stripe.
The Rough Riders also start Lucas Wilber, a standout wide receiver on the
Roosevelt playoff football team last fall. He averages 7.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg and
hits a team-high 57% from the floor. Others contributing for Roosevelt include
Trevon Moody (2.8 ppg), Chris Phillips (4.3 ppg, 3.6 rpg), Josh Kirkwold (4.9
ppg, 2.3 rpg) and Kooima (3.9 ppg). Roosevelt, which out rebounds opponents 29.3
to 25.3, rolled through Districts by defeating O'Gorman, 67-52, as Cole had 24
points. They defeated #2 Brookings, 62-38, in a District title game called by
Taylor as his team's top defensive effort of the year. For the season, the
Rough Riders have made 49% (582-1,197) from the floor and 69% (286-412) at the
foul stripe, as well as 37.5% (132-352) from 3-point range. Clark is one of
three Roosevelt players with at least 20 3’s on the season. He is 26-of-62
(41.9%) while Cole is 24-66 (36.4%) and Kooima, 23-of-55 (41.8%). Howard has
hit 17-of-48 (35.4%) and Boggs, 15-of-44 (34.1%). Roosevelt, which was
ranked #1 for the final 10 weeks of regular season in the KSFY/KWSN poll (Dec.
17, 2012), has scored at least 70 points in 15-of-23 games. The Rough Riders
own a 1,664-to-1,203 scoring edge, which breaks out to 72.35-to-52.30 ppg and a
20.05 per game victory margin. Roosevelt, which has only lost to an
out-of-state foe in ranked Marshall, Minn., has won by double digits 18 times
with 11 wins by at least 20 points. They have also scored 80 or more points
seven times.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">#5 Brandon Valley Notes: </span></b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">The Lynx</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">(17-6),
which has eight straight wins, are a team on a roll. The Lynx, led by 20 points
from Nic Petersen, advanced to a semifinal date with #1 Roosevelt by rolling
past Huron, 62-29. After leading 15-12 after one quarter, BV outscored Huron,
47-17 over the final three stanzas of play. Peterson made 8-of-9 field goals,
including his only 3-point shot, in leading the team to a win. Most of his
points came off drives to the basket. Jacob Adams had 10 points while Adam
Bauer and Chase Marso each score nine. The team made 25-of-46 shots from the
field for 54.3 percent, including 14-of-24 (58.3%) in the first half. The Lynx
forced Huron into 19 turnovers and had a 26-20 rebound advantage. BV advanced
to the AA tourney by defeating SF Washington, 56-43, and SF Lincoln, 71-43. The
Lynx, which has 10 wins by double figures, own a 1,287-to-1,109 scoring
differential, which breaks out to 55.96-to-48.22 or a 7.74 victory margin.
Directed by 12th-year coach Brent Deckert, BV, is making their 11th tourney
appearance. The Lynx last won a state title in 1998 with a 63-58 decision over
O'Gorman. The Lynx are hitting 41% from the field on 444-of-1,070 shooting,
including 31% (212-of-348) on 3-point shooting. They have hit 60.2% (237-of-394)
from the charity stripe. Chase Marso leads the team in scoring with 17.13 ppg
(394 points) and 4.2 rpg. He has hit 42.2% (143-of-339) from the field,
including 54-of-1526 for 35% from 3-point range. Marso has seven games over 20
points, including two with 30 points or more. His high is 36 points vs. Rapid
City Central when he knocked home 9-of-14 from 3-point range. Five times, he
has hit four or more 3’s in a game. Junior Jacob Adams, who has 16 double digit
scoring games and a high of 27 vs. Lincoln on Jan. 25, averages 12.39 ppg (285
points) with 5.7 rpg. Nic Peterson, who has 14 double figure scoring games and
a high of 26 vs. Lincoln on March 1, averages 11.8 ppg (272 points) with 3.7
rebounds per game. He has made 39-of-116 for 34% from 3-point range. Senior
Adam Bauer has averaged 5.9 ppg, 3.4 apg and 3.1 rpg while Jacob Bruget
provides 3.3 ppg and 4.3 rpg for the Lynx. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">#2 Pierre Riggs Notes</span></b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">: The Governors (18-5), the preseason #1, has
advanced into the AA semifinals after a 60-47 win over Rapid City Central. In
the victory, standout center Zach Hansen scored 30 points and had seven
rebounds while Lane Severyn added 16 points and 11 boards. Hansen made 14-of-20
shots from the field, including a three-pointer, and had two blocks. Pierre
made 24-of-55 shots from the field for 43.6%, including 7-of-22 from
three-point range. They were just 5-of-8 from the foul stripe. Nathan Miller
had 14 points and seven rebounds for Rapid City Central. This is Pierre’s 38<sup>th</sup>
appearance in the state AA tourney. To get to the Sioux Falls Arena, Pierre defeated
Aberdeen Central, 61-38, and Huron, 49-48, to win Districts. The Governors,
which last won a state crown in 1982 (Rapid City Central, 56-43) and also have
titles in 1979 (Rapid City Central, 68-57) and 1944 (Huron, 29-28), has lost
five games by a combined 11 points this year. The Governors, directed by head
coach Terry Becker, may feel that they are also a team with a great title shot.
They have 16 wins in 17 games with 14 by double figure totals. Pierre has
a 1,481-to-1,192 scoring differential, which breaks out to 64.39-to-52.82 ppg
or a per game victory margin of 11.57. Severyn and Hansen are headed to
SDSU and Creighton, respectively, to play basketball and showed their DI
prowess on Thursday. Severyn now has 1,444 career points (Pierre school
record), 644 rebounds (Pierre school record) and 192 3-point field goals. He
has 476 points (20.69 ppg) and 194 rebounds (8.7 rpg) this season. Hansen has
1,330 points (2nd all-time at Pierre) with 638 rebounds. He has 467 points
(20.33 ppg) and 187 rebounds (8.1 rpg). Pierre also features Austin
Christopherson (4.5 ppg, 2.4 rpg), Nick Rabern (3.0 ppg), Garret Pochop (4.0
ppg, 4.0 apg) along with Cooper Walton (5.4 ppg, 3.2 rpg), Cody Honeywell (4.0
ppg) among others.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">#6 </span></b><b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">Sioux Falls Lincoln Notes</span></b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">: The Patriots advanced to the AA
semifinals with a hard-fought, 53-48 win over #3 seed Brookings. SF Lincoln,
which is making their 30<sup>th</sup> state tournament appearance since
finishing second in the 1968 State A, rallied from a 17-9 deficit to win as
Adam Jaros had 16 points and made 8-of-9 free throws, including a pair late
when Brookings was trying to rally. Brookings, which was led by Tyler Nagy with
16 points, fell to 11-2 in games decided by seven points or less. Addison Park
scored 12 for the Patriots while also pulling down seven boards. Overall,
Lincoln hit 16-of-42 shots from the field for just 38.1% and made 5-of-17 shots
from three-point range. The difference was their ability to convert free
throws. The Patriots made 16-of-19. They also held a 29-26 edge in rebounding.
Lincoln had to fight over a Brookings charge late. After leading by nine
points, the Bobcats closed the game with a 8-1 run to a single point but the
Patriots, despite losing point guard Nermin Krdzalic to injury, held on to move
into the semifinals. Lincoln, which is making their eighth tournament
appearance in nine years, won titles in 1970 (58-51 over Yankton), 1976 (89-63
over Yankton), 1995 (79-51 over Rapid City Stevens) and 2009 (59-31 over
Huron). The Patriots were second four other times as they have made eight
finals appearances Led by head coach fourth-year head coach Jeff Halseth (56-37),
the Patriots advanced to the state tournament with a 73-59 win over Watertown
in a region play-in game. In District 2AA, they defeated SF Washington, 53-50,
and then lost to Brandon Valley, 71-43. The Patriots, which average 61.2 ppg
and give up 57.1 for a 3.9 ppg victory margin, are led by four double digit
scorers. Guard Nermin Krdzalic averages 11.7 ppg, 3.2 rebounds, 4.2 apg and 2.4
spg. He is hitting 71.9% from the foul line. Center Addison Park is scoring
11.6 ppg with 6.0 rebounds while hitting 52.4% from the floor. Guard Adam Jaros
provides 10.7 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 3.04 apg and 2.4 spg. Jaros is hitting 43.2% from
the field and 72.2% at the foul stripe. In addition forward Luke Meyers (3.0
ppg, 3.7 rpg) and Mlik Dunn (5.2 ppg, 3.6 rpg) and Vince Walker (4.1 ppg)
provide key contributions off the bench. Lincoln out rebounds opponents,
32.3-to-31.7. They hit 44.8% from the field to their opponents 39.7%. At the
foul line, they own a 66.9% to 62% edge. Lincoln also averages 9.3 steals per
game and nearly 14 assists.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">Class A – Platte/Geddes, Tea Area, Mobridge-Pollock, Madison in A Semis</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><i>In Class
A, the top two seeds, #1 Clark/Willow Lake (21-1) and #2 Aberdeen Roncalli
(16-5) were upset in the quarterfinal round of the tournament on Thursday in
Rapid City.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">@ Rapid City Rushmore Plaza Civic
Center<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">#8 Platte-Geddes (16-8) vs. #5 Tea
Area (21-3)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">#7 Mobridge-Pollock (19-5) vs. #3
Madison (22-2) <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><b>#5 Tea Area Notes: </b></span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">The Titans</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">(21-3), which are led by head coach Chris Fechner (2<sup>nd</sup> season at Tea; 12<sup>th</sup> overall, 111-81), advanced to the Class A semifinals with a 60-53 win over #4 seed Spearfish (18-6). Tea Area was paced by Connor Shaull who had 23 points and seven rebounds, hitting 3-of-9 from three-point range. Overall, he made 8-of-16 field goals. Riley Knutson added 11 points for the Titans, which advanced into the school’s first-ever final four appearance (state semifinals). Mitchell Nissen scored six, Chase Deckert, seven and Gunnar Ensz, nine. Tea Area rallied to defeat Dakota Valley, 57-55, in the Region 4A final. Tea Area advanced to the region final with a 57-38 win over Lennox. The Titans nearly went out in the first round, needing a last-second shot to slide by Harrisburg, 45-43. Tea Area owns a 1,449-to-1,108 scoring differential, which breaks out to a 60.37-to.46.16 edge and a victory margin of 14.21. The Titans have won 12 games by double figure totals and seven by 20 points or more. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">#8 Platte-Geddes Notes: </span></b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">The Black Panthers (16-7), directed
by head coach Frank Cutler, has advanced to the Class A semifinals by upsetting
previously unbeaten and #1 seed Clark/Willow Lake. Now Platte-Geddes will try and
advanced to the state title game for the first time since 2009 and win its
first state crown since 2008, when they defeated Madison 55-42. Platte-Geddes
has made 14 other state appearances as Platte for 16 in total. They won the
district tournament with a 62-27 win over Bon Homme followed by a 60-29
decision of Parkston. In the Region 5B final, they defeated McCook
Lake-Montrose, 51-47. Coby Johnson led the Black Panthers to the upset with 22
points, including 18 in the second half. Platte, which led 21-19 at halftime, stretched
the edge to double digits in the early parts of the fourth quarter. CWL’s
all-state performer Skyler Flatten finished with 16 points and has 1,672 points
in his career. Platte-Geddes, which is averaging 57 ppg and allowing 49 ppg, is
led by 6-4 sophomore Coby Johnson (13.8 ppg, 6.5 rpg) and three seniors
averaging nine per game. They include 6-0 guard Richard Sternberg (9.0 ppg, 3.8
rpg, 3.0 apg), 5-11 senior guard Tate Van Zee (9.1 ppg, 3.0 rpg) and 6-1 senior
guard Matthew Randall (9.9 ppg, 3.9 rpg). Platte-Geddes out rebounds opponents
by a 32-to-29 margin while hitting 47% from the field, 35% from three-point
range and 65% at the foul line.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">#7 Mobridge-Pollock Notes</span></b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">: Mobridge-Pollock (19-5) pulled the second major upset of the day with a 67-52
decision over Aberdeen Roncalli. The Tigers built a 13-2 lead in the first
quarter and led by 20 with six minutes left in the half. Roncalli cut the lead
to 40-30 in the third quarter but were unable to draw any closer.
Mobridge-Pollock was led by Michel Heumiller with 26 points, hitting 10-of-12
shots, including 3-of-4 from three-point range. Daniel Roberts added 12 for the
Tigers. This is M-P’s first-ever appearance at the State A in its current
co-op. However, Pollock went to the B tourney in 1993 and 1994 while Mobridge
has made 18 appearances with its last one in 2004. So, combined, this will be<b>
</b>the program’s 21<sup>st</sup> appearance. As Mobridge, the Tigers claimed
championships in 1943 (27-26 over Dell Rapids) and 1944 (29-26 over Madison).
They made their first-ever appearance in 1922 and finished second in 1951. Led
by head coach Tim Frederick, the Tigers were just 10-12 a year ago but put
together a solid season, which included a 15-game winning streak after opening
the season with three straight losses. After closing the season with two
losses, they have won four straight as they head to the semifinals in A. The
Tigers won District 11A with a 60-53 win over Stanley County and an 87-77
shootout in the championship with Cheyenne-Eagle Butte. The Tigers defeated
Miller, 55-45, to win the Region 8A title. The squad averages 65.54 ppg (1,573
total points) and allow 49.21 ppg (1,181 total points) for a 16.33 victory
margin. <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><b>#3 Madison Notes: </b>The Bulldogs<span class="apple-converted-space" style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">(22-2) won their ninth
straight as the Bulldogs rolled into the State A semifinals with a 70-34
decision over Pine Ridge (14-9). In the nine consecutive wins, Madison has won
by at least 13 points or more. In addition, they now have won 20 games this
season by double figure totals with 13 by 20 points or more. will make their 23<sup>rd</sup>
state tournament appearance, has been ranked nearly all-season. Madison has won
four championships in 1921 (29-21 over Mitchell), 1945 (30-28 over Webster),
2009 (48-40 over Platte-Geddes) and most recently in 2010 (58-47 over St.
Thomas More). The Bulldogs have finished runner-up five times for nine total
championship game appearances. They advanced to the State A with a 69-52 win
over Dell Rapids in Region 3A. They claimed District 5B with a 101-42 win over
Flandreau Indian School and then hammered Elkton-Lake Benton, 84-62. Madison, directed
8th-year head coach Michael Ricke (176-39, .818), the Bulldogs have compiled an
impressive 334-to-190 ppg margin in postseason play. The Bulldogs own a 1,644
ppg-to-1,099 scoring differential or 68.5-to-45.79 ppg, which breaks out to a
Class A-best 22.71 points per game victory margin. In the quarterfinal win over
Pine Ridge, Madison rolled to a 46-16 halftime lead and was never threatened.
They were led by Tyler Wiebe with 15 points while Jesse Brown had 12 points and
10 rebounds. Madison is led by a duo of double digit scorers including Trae
Vandeberg at 11.6 ppg and 5.2 rpg. He is one of six Madison players with at
least 14 3’s on the season. Vandeberg is shooting 50.5% (98-of-195) from the
floor, including 20-of-52 for 39.2% from long distance. He is also a 72.9%
shooter from the foul line on 47-of-65 shooting. Jesse Brown puts in 11.0 ppg
while hauling in 6.7 rebounds. He has hit 50% from the floor (110-of-222).
Tyler Wiebe averages 9.3 ppg and 8.6 rpg (team-high). Jacob Giles (7.4 ppg, 3.4
rpg), Mason Sullivan (8.4 ppg, 2.4 rpg) and Braxton Olson (8.1 ppg, 3.3 rpg)
and Preston Nordling (5.3 ppg) are all major contributors on a deep and
balanced team. Aside from Vandeberg,
Nordling (11-of-43), Olson (19-of-50), Eli Roemen (17-of-52), Giles (14-of-41)
and Sullivan (18-of-42) have double digit 3-point conversions. Madison is
shooting 46.2% (636-of-1,377) from the field, They out rebound opponents,
36.7-to-22.0.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">Class B - White River, South
Central, Viborg-Hurley and Dupree Reach Semifinals</span></b></div>
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<i>White River had their lowest output of the season in a 51-33 win over Langford Area but stay alive for a shot at a second straight title and fourth in six years. Viborg-Hurley upset #2 James Valley Christian and will battle explosive Dupree with their star Nate Widow (tourney-high 34 points) tonight. White River's 51 points is their lowest total this season but they still are averaging nearly 88 points per game.</i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">@ Barnett Center in Aberdeen<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">#1 White River (23-1) vs #5 South Central (22-2)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">#7 Viborg-Hurley (22-2) vs. #3 Dupree (23-1) <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">In the
Class B semifinals, teams have combined for six losses among the four teams and
have 90 wins.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">#1 White
River Notes</span></b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">: The Tigers (23-1) has reached
the State B’s final four for the eighth consecutive year, quite an
accomplishment for head coach Eldon Marshall and his White River contingent.
The Tigers defeated Langford Area, 51-33, but had problems at times putting up
points. They led 14-3 after one quarter and 22-9 at halftime. A 19-10 edge in
the third quarter was more normal for this high-scoring outfit. In the fourth
quarter, Langford had a 14-10 edge. Overall, White River was packed b Wyatt
Krogman with 14 points, three rebounds, five assists, steal and block. Joe
Cameron had 14 points, eight rebounds, three blocks and steals while Matt Gillen scored 10 points.
High-scoring guard Nic Waln was held to just one basket to go with four
rebounds and six steals. White River hit 19-of-45 shots from the field for
42.2%, although they were just 2-of-15 from 3-point range. They made 11-of-15
from the foul line. Langford Area was led by Bo Fries with 11 points and Drew
Planteen with 12. Still the Tigers rank as one of the highest scoring teams in
South Dakota prep basketball history. As they seek their second consecutive “B”
crown, White River brings has an 87.71 points per game average. They have
totaled 2,105 points on the season, while allowing 1,143, or 47.62 ppg. White River won state titles in 1955 (56-55
over Hayti), 2008 (66-50 over Langford), 2010 (66-63 over Hitchcock-Tulare),
and 2012 (52-43 over Viborg-Hurley) and is looking for a fifth this year. They
also made tournament appearances in 1949, 1956, 1993, 2006 (4<sup>th</sup>),
2007 (3rd), 2009 (2nd) and 2011 (2nd). The
Tigers defeated Oelrichs (20-2), 83-55, to win the Region 7B title for the eighth
straight season. Earlier, they defeated Kadoka area, 120-21, and Jones County,
102-55, in the districts. A huge favorite to repeat, White River has scored 86
points or more 13 times, 90 points 10 times with six games over 100. The
defending champs, who will be looking to win their fourth title in six years,
have an incredible 40.09 points per game victory margin. White River has won 22-of-24
games by at least 12 points and 19 by 20 or more. They have scored 96 or more
points four of six games games and has 88 or more in seven of the last 11 games
with four over 109 points (109, 112, 120). White River, led by head coach Eldon
Marshall (226-58, 12 seasons; 206-38 at White River, 10 seasons), features
all-state guard Wyatt Krogman, a magician on the floor, who is headed to Black
Hills State. He scored 17.62 ppg (423 points) with 2.3 rpg and 7.2 apg. He has
totaled 1,895 points (14.8 ppg career average) with 468 rebounds, 767 assists.
He has had at least 157 assists in four straight seasons and 77 or more in five
straight (2008-09, 77; 2009-10, 157; 2010-11, 190; 20-11-12, 172; 2012-13, 171).
Krogman also has 374 steals, including 80 this season, and 16 blocks. In terms
of his points per year, Krogman scored 213 in 2008-09; 314 in 2009-10; 480 in
2010-11; 465 in 2011-12; and 423 in 2012-13. That is three straight seasons of
at least 423 points or more for the standout guard. He has hit 49% from the
field on 678-of-1,376 shooting. On three-pointers, he has totaled 96-of-314 for
31% and has hit 443-of-641 for 69% from the foul line. Nic Waln, a second-team
all-state selection a year ago, averages 17.3 ppg, 2.2 rpg, 2.0 spg and 1.6
apg, and now has 1,256 career points. He has scored 371 or better in three
straight years (395, 2010-11; 448, 2011-12; and 371 in 2012-13). Waln is one of
the team’s three-point guns. In his career, he has made 182-of-447 for 41.7%.
In fact over the past three years, he has made 54 3’s or more, including 68-189
in 2010-11; 54-of-109 in 2011-12 and 55-of-134 in 2012-13. Guard Joe Cameron,
who had a season-high 34 points in a win over James Valley Christian in Ft.
Pierre, averages 16.2 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 3.2 apg, 3.2 spg. Center Tavis Burbank
averages 10.2 ppg and 7.4 rebounds while forward Matt Gillen puts up 8.7 ppg,
7.8 rpg and 1.7 spg. Burbank is hitting 68% from the floor with all four
starters with 50 percent or better from the field. On the bench, Gilbert
Morrison hits 9.1 ppg while grabbing 2.7 rpg. Tre Iyotte provides 4.9 ppg while
Cory Rogers scores 2.7 ppg. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><b>#5 South Central Notes:</b> South Central</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><b> </b></span></span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">(22-2) advanced to the State B semifinals with
a 64-54 win over Potter County at the State B Tournament on Thursday. Tyler Frank had 18 points and nine rebounds while Sam Hazen scored 19 and Dakota Votaw, 12, for South Central, which advanced to the B semifinals for the first time in their current co-op. South Central made 21-of-36 shots from the field for 58.3%, including 4-of-6 from three-point range. The win
ended Potter County’s 22-game winning streak. Kole Hawkinson had 12 points, while Tanner Heuer and Chayce Hall had 11 with Tate Nafziger scoring 10. This is the first time in the
current co-op of Bonesteel, Fairfax and Burke. Bonesteel qualified for the B in
1941 and 1959 while Burke made it in
1957 and Fairfax advanced to the tourney in 1952 and 1958. So, in reality, this
will be the school’s combined first state appearance since 1959 or some 54
years. South Central advanced to State with a 63-62 win over Ethan in a 6B
regional final. They rolled to a District 12B crown after wins over
Tripp-Delmont/Armour, 58-32, and Dakota Christian, 60-41. South Central
has outscored opponents, 1,310-to-1,007 or a points per game margin of 54.58-to-41.96
(12.62 victory margin). Clearly head coach Clayton Steele's team plays tight
defense as South Central has held 14 teams under 44 points and has 14 wins by
double digits, including six by 20 points or more. They are 4-0 in games
decided by no more than four points, including a 2-0 mark in overtime games.
Leading the way for South Central is forward Tyler Frank, who averages 17.7 ppg
with 7.3 rpg while hitting 55% from the field. He also doles out 3.8 apg and
averages 1.4 spg. Two other players average double figures including center Sam
Hazen at 11.0 ppg and 8.2 rpg and point guard Dakota Totaco, who scores at 11.4
ppg clip while dishing out 5.8 dimes and hauling in 3.0 rebounds. Also in the
mix is Garrett Bruns (3.8 ppg) and Josh Tuttle (8.0 ppg, 4.4 rpg). Zach Sebern
(3.3 ppg) is a solid contributor off the bench. South Central averages 28.6
rebounds per game and hits 46% from the field, 57% from the foul line and 11.6
steals.</span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">#3 Dupree Notes: </span></b><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">Dupree<span class="apple-converted-space"><b> </b></span></span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">(23-1),
which has won 20-straight games, has advanced to the State B semifinals after
rallying for a 71-63 win over Arlington (17-5). Dupree, which was 7<sup>th</sup>
a year ago, advanced to the tourney with a 66-51 win over Faith in Region 8B.
Dupree is led by head coach Jim Hood, who has guided the team for 10 seasons
and coached for 27 years. Dupree, which has not lost to a South Dakota opponent
this season, features one of the best players in Class B in Nate Widow, who has
scored 1,119 career points, and rugged 6-1 forward Kash Deal, whose brother
Kaden is an assistant coach on the team. Widow, who averages 25.0 ppg, 5.0 rpg
and 3.0 spg and 2.1 apg., has scored over 30 points nine times this year, twice
scoring 37 points. Widow hit 15-of-28 shots, including 3-of-8 from 3-point
range and 1-of-4 from the foul line, and scored 34 points to lead Dupree past
Arlington on Thursday. Widow, who hits
52% from the field, has made 65-of-172 shots from three-point range for 38
percent. Deal, who is a saddle bronc rider during summers, averages 12.0 ppg,
5.0 rpg, 2.0 apg and 2.0 steals has made 54% of his field goal attempts. He has
982 career points after scoring 12 vs. Arlington. Led by the senior duo, Dupree
rolled to a District 15B crown with a 70-37 win over McIntosh and a 70-36 decision
against Timber Lake. Widow has 82 in three postseason games. Dupree has
scored over 90 points in 4-of-8 games. The Tigers own a 1,812-1,100 point
differential or a margin of 75.5 -to-45.83 ppg and a per game victory margin of
29.67. Dupree has scored 90 points or more eight times with 20 victories in
double digits. Dupree is making a fourth
tourney appearance (1982, 1984, 2012). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><b>#7</b> <b>Viborg-Hurley</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(22-2) outscored #2 seed James Valley Christian, 10-2, in overtime for a 55-47 quarterfinal win. The Cougars were led by senior Tyler Gerdes with 19 points and six rebounds along with two assists and two steals. Gerdes hit 8-of-10 shots from the field. Andrew Hora was a big factor inside with 13 points, 19 rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Guard Jack Huether had 12 points and three boards for V-H, which hit 43.9% from the field on 18-of-41 shooting. They were just 4-of-19 from 3-point range and made 15-of-20 from the foul stripe. V-H is led by 6-6 forward Andrew Hora (13.6 ppg, 8.5 rpg, 1.5 bpg), forward Tyler Gerdes (10.2 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 1.7 apg) and guards Jack Huether (10.8 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 1.7 apg) and Trevor Jacobsen (10.6 ppg, 1.7 rpg, 1.5 spg). The Cougars are now one win away from making their third consecutive state title games in two<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>different classes. A victory over Dupree would send them to a second straight B title game. A year ago, they fell to White River, 52-43, in a B final (finished 23-3) and was runner-up to St. Thomas More, 63-47, in Class A two years ago. V-H, which defeated Canistota, 50-44, in the Region 4B final, is making make a 10th state tournament appearance. While Viborg-Hurley doesn't have a championship in its current co-op, it can claim one with Hurley, which won a title in 2007 over Mitchell Christian, 44-42. Otherwise, the schools have had a combined four top-3 finishes. V-H is led by head coach </span><span style="color: #231f20; font-family: Garamond, serif;">Galen Schoenefeld, who is in his 10<sup>th</sup> season (14<sup>th</sup> overall) and has a 204-126 record, including 194-59 with the Cougars. </span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">V-H won District 8B with a 59-35 win over Alcester-Hudson and a 43-40 decision over Centerville in the championship. Overall, Viborg-Hurley has a 1,501-to-1,036 overall scoring edge against opponents, which breaks out to 62.54-to-43.17 ppg or a victory margin of 19.37 ppg. This squad has made 564-of-1,226 field goals for 46.01%, including 140-of-417 for 33.6% from 3-point range as well as 233-of-350 for 63.7% from the foul stripe. Jacobsen is the leading 3-point shooter at 42.4% on 43-of-106 conversions. Four players have at least 20 three-pointers on the season. Huether has 28 (77 att.), Hora, 23 (69 att.) and Gerdes, 20 (60 att.).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-73482790370443896262013-03-12T18:07:00.001-07:002013-03-14T06:44:41.598-07:00South Dakota Boys Basketball State Tourney Previews - Roosevelt, White River and Clark/Willow Lake Favorites<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The culmination of the second
season – postseason play – is about to commence for South Dakota boys
basketball prep teams. With White River in Class B the only defending champion
still alive, at least two new champions will be crowned in the other classes on Saturday.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This blog features game notes on
each of the teams in the three tournaments which begin on Thursday afternoon in Sioux Falls (AA), Rapid City (A) and Aberdeen (B). Before, getting into the who, what
and how of the various squads, I better throw my picks your way. No surprise
that I like SF Roosevelt in Class AA. They have been dominate all season with a
team that moves the ball at a quick pace and presses teams in the likeness of
former Arkansas Nolan Richardson’s “40 minutes of hell.” Roosevelt hasn’t lost
a game to a South Dakota prep squad. Look for that to continue. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In Class A, Clark-Willow Lake comes
into the tourney as one of two unbeaten teams left in South Dakota (Potter
County in Class B). With one of the state’s top players in Skyler Flatten, who
proved his worth with 35 points in an overtime regional final win, the Cyclones
seem to be a team on a mission. Keep your eye on Madison and Tea Area. Both
teams have the horses to capture a title. I will go with Clark-Willow Lake but
they will be challenged, maybe in all three games. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As for Class B, my choice is an
obvious one. I like the defending champions White River, who rank as one of the
state’s most explosive teams in history. White River average 89 points per game
and win by a margin of 41 points. Still, James Valley Christian, Viborg-Hurley
and Dupree all have teams that could cause the Tigers a few headaches. Unbeaten
Potter County will try and complete the school’s first unbeaten season but will
be significantly tested. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So tune in to the South Dakota
Public Broadcasting for the games this week or get out to the sites in Sioux
Falls, Rapid City and Aberdeen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">AA -- Roosevelt Team to Beat<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">@ Sioux Falls Arena<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">#1 Sioux Falls Roosevelt (21-1) vs.
#8 Rapid City Stevens (10-13)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">#4 Huron (16-7) vs. #5 Brandon
Valley (16-6)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">#2 Pierre (17-5) vs. #7 Rapid City
Central (10-11)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">#3 Brookings (16-6) vs. #6 Sioux
Falls Lincoln (12-11)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Game 1 -- #1 Sioux Falls Roosevelt (21-1) vs. #8 Rapid City
Stevens (10-13)</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Sioux Falls Roosevelt Notes:
</b> Lee Taylor's Rough Riders
squad (21-1) will be making its 10th state tournament appearance, as they look
for a first title since 2000 (55-54, Rapid City Central). Clearly the favorite
going in, Roosevelt has not lost to a South Dakota opponent this season. A year
ago the Rough Riders finished sixth. A balanced, athletic bunch,
Roosevelt has four players that score in double figures, led by senior forward Tyler
Howard, who has 987 career points. Howard (70 assists, 41 steals) averages 12.6
ppg with 2.9 rpg, hitting 51% from the field. Guard Nate Cole scores 11.4 ppg
and has team-highs in assists (89) and steals (54) while making 81% from the
foul stripe. Brandon Boggs is scoring 10.4 ppg and grabbing 5.5 rpg while
making 47% from the field. Also scoring in double digits is guard Jeremiah
Clark at 10.4 ppg. Clark, who has 55 assists, hits 53% from the field and 77%
at the charity stripe. The Rough Riders also start Lucas Wilber, a standout
wide receiver on the Roosevelt playoff football team last fall. He averages 7.5
ppg, 4.5 rpg and hits a team-high 57% from the floor. Others contributing for
Roosevelt include Trevon Moody (2.8 ppg), Chris Phillips (4.3 ppg, 3.6 rpg),
Josh Kirkwold (4.9 ppg, 2.3 rpg) and Colton Kooima (3.9 ppg). Roosevelt, which
outrebounds opponents 29.3 to 25.3, rolled through Districts by defeating
O'Gorman, 67-52, as Cole had 24 points. They defeated #2 Brookings, 62-38, in a
District title game called by Taylor as his team's top defensive effort of the
year. For the season, the Rough Riders have made 49% (582-1,197) from the floor
and 69% (286-412) at the foul stripe, as well as 37.5% (132-352) from 3-point
range. Clark is one of three Roosevelt players with at least 20 3’s on the
season. He is 26-of-62 (41.9%) while Cole is 24-66 (36.4%) and Kooima, 23-of-55
(41.8%). Howard has hit 17-of-48 (35.4%) and Boggs, 15-of-44 (34.1%). Roosevelt,
which was ranked #1 for the final 10 weeks of regular season in the KSFY/KWSN
poll (Dec. 17, 2012), has scored at least 70 points in 14-of-22 games. The
Rough Riders own a 1,591-to-1,160 scoring edge, which breaks out to
72.32-to-52.73 ppg and a 19.59 per game victory margin. Roosevelt, which
has only lost to an out-of-state foe in ranked Marshall, Minn., has won by
double digits 17 times with 10 wins by at least 20 points. They have also
scored 80 or more points seven times.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Rapid City Stevens Notes: </b> Rapid City Stevens (10-13) is making its 17<sup>th</sup>
AA tournament appearance and the first since 2007. Stevens won the 1989 title
and was second in 1977, and 1995. Directed by head coach Derris Buus, Stevens
advanced to the AA tourney with a 51-40 win in a region 2 play-in game. In District
4AA, they were involved in two 1-point decision, defeating Sturgis, 43-42,
before falling to city-rival Rapid City Central, 48-47. Stevens, which has won
6-of-7 games, has totaled 1,248 points while allowing 1,259 to opponents. They
average 54.26 ppg but allow 54.74 for a -.48 victory margin. This team is led
by Steve Schaeffer, who averaged 19.1 ppg, 3.7 rebounds and hits 44.2% from the
field. Before district play, he had hit 30-of-94 (31.9%) 3-point field goals.
Brett Bennett added 12.3 ppg and a team-high 6.8 rebounds. He has made 25-of-58
from 3-point range for 43.1% (before districts) Stevens also features Kevin
Blackett (6.3 ppg, 3.6 rpg), Jacob Vifquain (6.7 ppg, 2.0 rpg), Matt Wilson
(3.8 ppg, 2.3 rpg), Sam McCloud (3.4 ppg and 4.5 rpg). As a team, Stevens makes 42.7% from the field and 31% from the 3-point stripe. They are converting 70.1%
from the foul line. Defensively, they give up 44.2% on field goals, 33.2% from
3-point range and 64.3% from the free throw line.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">#4 Huron (16-7) vs. #5 Brandon
Valley (16-6)<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Brandon Valley Notes: </b>The Lynx<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(16-6),
which has seven straight wins, are a team on a roll. The Lynx defeated SF
Washington, 56-43, and SF Lincoln, 71-43 for its seventh straight win, a
district crown and a state tourney berth. The Lynx, which has nine wins by
double figures, own a 1,225-to-1,080 scoring differential, which breaks out to
55.68-to-49.09 or a 6.59 victory margin. Directed by 12th-year coach Brent
Deckert, BV, which will make its 11th tourney appearance, last won a state
title in 1998 with a 63-58 decision over O'Gorman. The Lynx are hitting 41%
from the field on 444-of-1,070 shooting, including 31% (212-of-348) on 3-point
shooting. They have hit 61% (212-of-348) from the charity stripe. Chase Marso
leads the team in scoring with 17.5 ppg (385 points) and 4.2 rpg. He has hit
43% (140-of-326) from the field, including 54-of-152 for 36% from 3-point
range. Marso has seven games over 20 points, including two with 30 points or
more. His high is 36 points vs. Rapid City Central when he knocked home 9-of-14
from 3-point range. Five times, he has hit four or more 3’s in a game. Junior
Jacob Adams, who has 15 double digit scoring games and a high of 27 vs. Lincoln
on Jan. 25, averages 12.5 ppg (275 points) with 5.7 rpg. Nic Peterson, who has
13 double figure scoring games and a high of 26 vs. Lincoln on March 1,
averages 11.5 ppg (252 points) with 3.7 rebounds per game. He has made 38-of-115
for 33% from 3-point range. Senior Adam Bauer has averaged 5.9 ppg, 3.4 apg and
3.1 rpg while Jacob Bruget provides 3.3 ppg and 4.3 rpg for the Lynx. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Huron Notes</b>: The
Tigers<span class="apple-converted-space"><b> </b></span>(16-7), which have
won 6-of-9, advanced to the State AA Tourney with a 64-45 win over Sturgis
Brown. In districts, they defeated Mitchell, 63-53, and lost to Pierre Riggs,
49-48. Huron has built a 1,227-to-1,116 scoring differential, or an edge of 53.35-to-48.52
ppg and a victory margin of 4.83. Huron is led by USD recruit Justin Decker, a junior
6-6 center, who averages 15.3 ppg (337 points) and 6.2 rebounds. Senior Adam
Zwanziger provides 9.6 ppg, and a team-high 8.2 rebounds. In addition, 6-6
junior Caleb Carr (6.0 ppg, 4.4 rpg), 5-10 junior JP Noonan (5.5 ppg, 3.0 rpg),
6-0 junior Lucas Morrison (4.8 ppg, 1.5 rpg), 5-11 junior Will Carr (4.6 ppg,
2.5 rpg) and 6-2 sophomore Hayden Busch (3.9 ppg) make contributions. Huron,
directed by 26<sup>th</sup>-year head coach Tim Buddenhagen (12 seasons as boys
coach, 14 season as girls coach, 2 state titles – 2004 with boys and 1989 with
girls), has 11 state titles with 2004 the most recent championship. In all,
they have made 48 state tournament appearances with 22 top-three finishes. The
state titles include 1917 (23-22, Aberdeen); 1927 (18-17, Aberdeen); 1930
17-13, Yankton); 1936, 22-20, SF Washington); 1937 (29-16, Mitchell); 1945
(36-29, Aberdeen); 1958 (54-45, SF Washington); 1973 (50-48, Yankton); 1981
(70-41, Yankton); 1993 (76-65. Watertown) and 2004 (75-69, SF O'Gorman).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Game 3 - #2 Pierre (17-5) vs. #7
Rapid City Central (10-11)<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PTsS20YTsnk/UUHBMKY8ldI/AAAAAAAAAJo/YoVPbaGJ9pI/s1600/zachhansenpierre.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PTsS20YTsnk/UUHBMKY8ldI/AAAAAAAAAJo/YoVPbaGJ9pI/s320/zachhansenpierre.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zach Hansen of Pierre Riggs</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Pierre Riggs Notes</b>: The Governors (17-5), the preseason #1, has
advanced to the State AA Tournament for the 38<sup>th</sup> time. To get to the
Sioux Falls Arena, Pierre defeated Aberdeen Central, 61-38, and Huron, 49-48,
to win Districts. The Governors, which last won a state crown in 1982 (Rapid
City Central, 56-43) and also have titles in 1979 (Rapid City Central, 68-57)
and 1944 (Huron, 29-28), has lost five games by a combined 11 points this year.
The Governors, directed by head coach Terry Becker, may feel that they are also
a team with a great title shot. They have 15 wins in 16 games with 13 by double
figure totals. Pierre has a 1,421-to-1,145 scoring differential, which
breaks out to 64.59-to-52.05 ppg or a per game victory margin of
12.54. Pierre, which will make its 38th state tourney appearance, has the
dangerous duo of Lane Severyn and Zach Hansen, who are headed to SDSU and
Creighton, respectively, to play basketball. Severyn has 1,428 career points
(Pierre school record), 633 rebounds (Pierre school record) and 190 3-point
field goals. He has 461 points (21.3 ppg) and 183 rebounds (8.7 rpg) this
season. Hansen has 1,300 points (2nd all-time at Pierre) with 631 rebounds. Severyn and Hansen rank #1 and #2 all-time in scoring and rebounding at Pierre Riggs HS. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Rapid City Central Notes</b>: Central (10-11) has advanced to its fourth
straight state tournament. They moved to
State AA with a 66-49 win over Douglas and a 48-47 District 4AA win over
in-city rival Rapid City Stevens. The Cobblers, directed by head coach Mike
Purcell, finished 8<sup>th</sup> a year ago, falling in double overtime to
Huron 61-58. This is the 58<sup>th</sup> state tourney appearance for Rapid City Central,
including titles in 1942, 1960, and 1980. They have finished second 11 times
dating back to 1922 (1916 first state appearance). This season, they have scored
1,176 points and allowed 1,236 or a 56.0 ppg to 58.86 scoring differential,
which is a -2.86 victory margin. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Game 4 - #3 Brookings (16-6) vs. #6
Sioux Falls Lincoln (12-11)<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Brookings Notes: </b>The Bobcats (16-6)<span class="apple-converted-space"><b> </b>has</span> advanced
to its second straight state tournament appearance, after finishing fifth a
year ago (56-47 over SF Roosevelt). Brookings defeated Yankton, 64-47 in a
regional play-in game, was 1-1 in the Districts with a 50-45 win over Watertown
and a 62-37 loss to #1 Roosevelt. The Bobcats, led by head coach Travis
Engebretson (sixth season, 80-79, Huron College graduate) has made 33 state
tournament appearances with 13 top-3 finishes, including five state titles.
They defeated Aberdeen Central, 48-47, in 1987 for their most recent title.
They also had championships in 1968 (69-57, Sioux Falls Lincoln), 1962 (42-39,
Sioux Falls Washington), 1952 (50-49, Huron) and 1946 (30-27, Huron). The
Bobcats own a 1,201-to-1111 points differential, or 52.22-48.30 ppg edge and a
3.921 victory margin. Brookings fares well in tight games; going 8-0 in
three-point decisions and 3-0 in one-point verdicts. They are 11-1 in games
decided by six points or fewer. In addition, they have a pair of wins over Pierre
by a combined three points. Tyler Nagy (5-10, Jr.), the son of SDSU men’s
basketball coach Scott Nagy, leads the team with 13.6 points per game, hitting
38% from the field, 70% at the foul line while averaging 2.8 rpg, 2.4 apg and
1.4 spg. Braxton Carlson, the brother of
SDSU guard Brayden Carlson, is 6-4 senior putting up 11.1 ppg, grabbing 8.2
rebounds while hitting 41% from the floor and 65% from the charity stripe. Kaleb Vig, 6-1 senior guard, scores 10.1 ppg,
3.8 rpg, 2.7 apg and 1.6 spg. In addition, Zach Page, a 6-3 senior center,
scores 5.1 ppg and grabs 4.4 rpg. Zach Kress, a 6-1 senior guard, averages 3.3
ppg, 2.5 rpg and 1.0 apg. Konner Beste averages 6.2 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 1.1
spg. Sophomores Mikey Daniel (1.6 ppg, 1.5 rpg) and Seth Moret (1.1 ppg, 1.6 rpg) also contribute. As a team, Brookings hits 42% from the field,
65% from the foul line and pull down 31.2 rebounds per game.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Sioux Falls Lincoln Notes</b>: The Patriots, which will make its
30<sup>th</sup> state tournament appearance since finishing second in the 1968
State A, will open with second-ranked Brookings. Lincoln, which is making their
eighth tournament appearance in nine years, won titles in 1970 (58-51 over
Yankton), 1976 (89-63 over Yankton), 1995 (79-51 over Rapid City Stevens) and
2009 (59-31 over Huron). The Patriots were second four other times as they have
made eight finals appearances. Led by head coach fourth-year head coach Jeff
Halseth (55-37), the Patriots advanced to the state tournament with a 73-59 win
over Watertown in a region play-in game. In District 2AA, they defeated SF
Washington, 53-50, and then lost to Brandon Valley, 71-43. The Patriots, which
average 61.2 ppg and give up 57.1 for a 3.9 ppg victory margin, are led by four
double digit scorers. Guard Nermin Krdzalic averages 11.7 ppg, 3.2 rebounds,
4.2 apg and 2.4 spg. He is hitting 71.9% from the foul line. Center Addison
Park is scoring 11.6 ppg with 6.0 rebounds while hitting 52.4% from the floor.
Guard Adam Jaros provides 10.7 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 3.04 apg and 2.4 spg. Jaros is
hitting 43.2% from the field and 72.2% at the foul stripe. In addition forward
Luke Meyers (3.0 ppg, 3.7 rpg) and Mlik Dunn (5.2 ppg, 3.6 rpg) and Vince
Walker (4.1 ppg) provide key contributions off the bench. Lincoln outrebounds
opponents, 32.3-to-31.7. They hit 44.8% from the field to their opponents
39.7%. At the foul line, they own a 66.9% to 62% edge. Lincoln also averages
9.3 steals per game and nearly 14 assists.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Class A -- Clark/Willow Lake Looks Like A's Top Squad</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">@ Rapid City Rushmore Plaza Civic
Center<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">#1 Clark/Willow Lake (21-0) vs. #8
Platte-Geddes (15-6)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">#2 Aberdeen Roncalli (16-4) vs. #7
Mobridge-Pollock (18-5)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">#3 Madison (21-2) vs. #6 Pine Ridge
(14-8) <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">#4 Spearfish (18-5) vs. #5 Tea Area
(20-3) <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Game 1 – #1 Clark-Willow Lake vs. #8 Platte Geddes</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>#8 Platte-Geddes Notes: </b>The Black Panthers (15-8), directed
by head coach Frank Cutler, will try and win its first state crown since 2008,
when they defeated Madison 55-42. Platte-Geddes, which also finished runner-up
in 2009, made 14 other state appearances as Platte for 16 in total. They won
the district tournament with a 62-27 win over Bon Homme followed by a 60-29
decision of Parkston. In the Region 5B final, they defeated McCook
Lake-Montrose, 51-47. Platte-Geddes, which is averaging 56 ppg and allowing 48
ppg, is led by 6-4 sophomore Coby Johnson (13.2 ppg, 6.4 rpg) and three seniors
averaging nine per game. They include 6-0 guard Richard Sternberg (9.0 ppg, 3.8
rpg, 3.0 apg), 5-11 senior guard Tate Van Zee (9.1 ppg, 3.0 rpg) and 6-1 senior
guard Matthew Randall (9.9 ppg, 3.9 rpg). Platte-Geddes outrebounds opponents
by a 32-to-29 margin while hitting 47% from the field, 35% from three-point
range and 65% at the foul line.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rh1xJvqe-Js/UUHBcLUlJWI/AAAAAAAAAJw/bH3pn8idvKM/s1600/skylerflattenCWL-%232-IMG_9484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rh1xJvqe-Js/UUHBcLUlJWI/AAAAAAAAAJw/bH3pn8idvKM/s320/skylerflattenCWL-%232-IMG_9484.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skyler Flatten of Clark/Willow Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>#1 Clark/Willow Lake Notes</b>: C/WL<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(21-0)<b> </b>has returned to the State A Tournament for
the second consecutive season after surviving with a 69-68 2OT win over Deuel. Clark/Willow Lake advanced to the region with a 60-30 win
over Redfield/Doland in District 3A.
The Cyclones have not won a state title in its current coop although Clark made
16 state appearances and Willow Lake, one, with a combined five top-3 finishes
but no state titles. A year ago, C/WL finished sixth (70-63 loss to Tri-Valley)
at the State A Tournament. The Cyclones, under the leadership of coach Jerome
Nesheim, own a 1,330-to-1,005 scoring differential, which breaks out to 63.3-to-47.9
ppg or a 15.4 per game victory margin. C/WL, which has won 13 games by
double-digits, is led by 6-5 senior guard and SDSU recruit Skyler Flatten, who averages
22.4 (425 points), 5.8 rpg, and has hit 58-of-136 shots from three-point range.
Flatten, who had 35 points to rally the Cyclones past Deuel, now has 1,628
career points. Flatten has hit 50.5% (143-of-283) from the floor and 73.6%
(81-of-110) from the charity stripe. In
addition, he has 27 blocks, 45 steals and 48 assists. Tyson Jenkins is scoring 10.7 ppg with 5.1
rpg, hitting on 64.1% (100-of-156) from the field. Torrey Kolden averages 11
points, 6.0 rebounds and is 50% (89-of-178) from the floor. Forward Mitch Prouty, who has hit 36.2%
(34-of-94) from the 3-point line, is averaging 8.7 points and 3.2 rebounds with
64 assists. Lane Hovde, who averages 6.3 ppg and 2.2 rpg, made 31-of-105
three-point shots for 29.5%. As a team,
C/WL hit 48.6% from the floor, 34.2% (126-of-368) from 3-point range and 63.6%
from the charity stripe. They averaged 11.6 steals and force 11.2 turnovers per
game.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Game 2 – Aberdeen Roncalli (16-4)
vs. Mobridge-Pollock (18-5)<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Aberdeen Roncalli Notes: </b>The Cavaliers<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(16-4),
which finished fourth a year ago, has won 9-of-10 as it moves to the State A.
The Cavaliers, directed by seventh-year head coach Todd Neuendorf, are led by
double figure scorers in Kory Schwann and Kendal Deutsch, a solid guard tandem. Schwann is averaging 13.3 points per game and 3.8
rebounds, while hitting 40.3% from the field. Deutsch, the team’s floor
general, averages 4.9 ppg and 4.6 apg. Inside, center Dominic King scores 10.6
ppg with 6.5 rpg and a shooting percentage of 55%. At forward, Braydan McNeary
scores 6.6 ppg with 4.0 rebounds while Zach Andera puts in 8.1 ppg and grabs
5.7 rebounds. Off the bench, The Cavaliers feature Zach Schaefbauer (5.7 ppg,
1.4 rpg) and Lucas Lorenz (4.6 ppg, 3.4 rpg). Roncalli will try and go to state for the 13th
time and add a second title to the A title they claimed in 1975. Roncalli
advanced to the tournament with a 56-54 2OT win over Sisseton. In the districts
final, the Cavaliers defeated Groton Area, 60-36. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Mobridge-Pollock (18-5)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Mobridge-Pollock Notes</b>: Despite the four of four seniors off last year’s squad,
Mobridge-Pollock will make their first-ever appearance at the State A in its
current co-op. However, Pollock went to the B tourney in 1993 and 1994 while
Mobridge has made 18 appearances with its last one in 2004. So, combined, this
will be<b> </b>the program’s 21<sup>st</sup> appearance. As Mobridge, the
Tigers claimed championships in 1943 (27-26 over Dell Rapids) and 1944 (29-26
over Madison). They made their first-ever appearance in 1922 and finished
second in 1951. Led by head coach Tim Frederick, the Tigers were just 10-12 a
year ago but put together a solid season, which included a 15-game winning
streak after opening the season with three straight losses. After closing the
season with two losses, they won District 11A with a 60-53 win over Stanley
County and an 87-77 shootout in the championship with Cheyenne-Eagle Butte. The
Tigers defeated Miller, 55-45, to win the Region 8A title. The squad averages
65.47 ppg (1,506 total points) and allow 49.08 ppg (1,129 total points) for a
16.39 victory margin. Mobridge-Pollock is led by seniors Zach Dockter, Daniel
Roberts, Cody Schaefbauer and junior Mitchel Heumiller, Jason Hill and
sophomore Preston Frederick. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Game 3 – Madison (21-2) vs. Pine
Ridge (14-8)<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Madison Notes: </b>The Bulldogs<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(21-2), which will make
their 23<sup>rd</sup> state tournament appearance, has been ranked nearly
all-season. Madison has won four championships in 1921 (29-21 over Mitchell),
1945 (30-28 over Webster), 2009 (48-40 over Platte-Geddes) and 2010 (58-47 over
St. Thomas More) and finished runner-up five times for nine total championship
game appearances. They advanced to the State A with a 69-52 win over Dell
Rapids in Region 3A. They claimed District 5B with a 101-42 win over Flandreau
Indian School and then hammered Elkton-Lake Benton, 84-62. Madison, directed
8th-year head coach Michael Ricke (175-39, .818), the Bulldogs will put a 264-to-156
margin in postseason play. The Bulldogs own a 1,574 ppg-to-1,065 scoring
differential or 68.4-to-46.3 ppg, which breaks out to a Class A-best 22.1
points per game victory margin. Madison has eight straight wins, all by margins
of 13 points or more. In addition, they have won 20 games by double figure
totals with 13 by 20 points or more. Madison is led by a duo of double digit
scorers including Trae Vandeberg at 11.6 ppg and 5.2 rpg. He is one of six
Madison players with at least 14 3’s on the season. Vandeberg is shooting 50.5%
(96-of-190) from the floor, including 20-of-51 for 39.2% from long distance. He
is also a 72.9% shooter from the foul line on 43-of-59 shooting. Jesse Brown
puts in 11.0 ppg while hauling in 6.7 rebounds. He has hit 50% from the floor
(105-of-210). Tyler Wiebe averages 9.3 ppg and 8.6 rpg (team-high). Jacob Giles
(7.4 ppg, 3.4 rpg), Mason Sullivan (8.4 ppg, 2.4 rpg) and Braxton Olson (8.1
ppg, 3.3 rpg) and Preston Nordling (5.3 ppg) are all major contributors on a
deep and balanced team. Aside from
Vandeberg, Nordling (11-of-42), Olson (19-of-50), Eli Roemen (17-of-52), Giles
(14-of-41) and Sullivan (18-of-40) have double digit 3-point conversions.
Madison is shooting 46.2% (610-of-1,319) from the field, They outrebound
opponents, 36.7-to-22.0.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b> Pine Ridge Notes: </b>Pine Ridge, which will be seeking a fourth title, will make their 20<sup>th</sup>
appearance at the state tournament. The Thorpes won titles in 1936 (as Oglala
Indian, 24-22 over Bridgewater), 1962
(70-68 over McIntosh), and 1987 (60-53 over Lennox) and was second in
1963. Pine Ridge advanced to its first state appearance since 2004, by
defeating St. Francis, 6-49 in the 7A Region final. They won District 14A with
a 67-54 verdict against Little Wound. Directed by long-time head coach Lyle
“Dusty” LeBeaux (11 seasons), Pine Ridge has three double figure scorers led by
Jeff LeBeaux at 17.5 ppg, 8.7 rpg, and 4.2 apg. He hits 54% from the field and
52% at the foul line. Jake Brown averages 12.3 ppg and 3.2 rpg while Jacob
Dreamer scores 10.2 ppg with 6.5 rpg. Also Jesse Brow (3.8 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 3.8
apg) and Derek Tyon (5.0 ppg, 2.0 rpg, 5.4 apg) start for the Thorpes. Off the
bench, Mike Brings Plenty scores 5.0 ppg with 5.0 rpg and Ki-Jana Gray Grass
(2.6 ppg, 6.0 rpg) and Jeramy Bettelyoun (1.1 ppg, 2.3 rpg) also contribute. As
a squad, Pine Ridge averages 48.62% from the field and 53% at the charity
stripe. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Game 4 - #4 Spearfish (18-5) vs. #5
Tea Area (20-3) <o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Spearfish Notes: </b>The Spartans<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(18-5),
directed by head coach Erik Skoglund, pulled off a big surprise in the
districts by taking down the two-time defending champions in St. Thomas More,
41-36. That win followed a 68-42 win over Lead-Deadwood in the opening round.
Spearfish advanced to the State AA Tournament for the 16<sup>th</sup> time,
with a 65-43 win over Red Cloud. Overall, Spearfish, which has 13 wins by
double digits, own a 12.41 victory margin because of a 1,407 (61.17) – to – 1,112
(48.35) scoring differential. Spearfish claimed its only state title (AA) in
the 2002 season when they upended SF Lincoln, 65-61. Spearfish, which made its
first-ever tournament appearance in 1946, is making their 17<sup>th</sup>
overall state tournament appearance, including one in Class B, eight in A and
eight in AA. A year ago, Spearfish was 14-8 and now are 32-13 over two seasons.
They feature senior guard Blaine Bacon, guard Ryan Couch, Payne Davis, as well
as Michael Deichert, Devin Diede, Mason Kaitfors, Brandon Kemp and Ryan and
Zach Olson as well as Dillon Orth, a 3-point artist.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Tea Area Notes: </b>The Titans<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(20-3),
which are led by head coach Chris Fechner (2<sup>nd</sup> season at Tea; 12<sup>th</sup>
overall, 110-81), features a trio of standouts in Riley Knutson, Mitchell
Nissen and Connor Shaull. This is the school’s first-ever tournament
appearance. They rallied to defeat Dakota Valley, 57-55, in the Region 4A
final. Tea Area advanced to the region final with a 57-38 win over Lennox. The
Titans nearly went out in the first round, needing a last-second shot to slide
by Harrisburg, 45-43. Tea Area owns a 1,389-to-1,055 scoring differential,
which breaks out to a 60.39-to.45.87 edge and a victory margin of 14.52. The
Titans have won 12 games by double figure totals and seven by 20 points or
more. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="apple-converted-space"><b>White River Huge Favorite to Repeat</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Class B</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">@ Barnett Center in Aberdeen<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">#1 White River (22-1) vs. Langford Area (19-4)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">#4 Potter County (22-0) vs. #5 South Central (21-2)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">#2 James Valley Christian (21-2) vs. #7 Viborg-Hurley (21-2)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">#3 Dupree (22-1) vs. #6 Arlington (17-4)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><u>Game 1 – White River (22-1) vs. #8
Langford Area (19-4)</u></b><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0pt;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RDBcVQF46Hg/UUHCAietfjI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/DVTT-L3HqtQ/s1600/basketball-981222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RDBcVQF46Hg/UUHCAietfjI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/DVTT-L3HqtQ/s320/basketball-981222.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">White
River Notes</span></b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">: The Tigers (22-1), the
preseason choice and #1 for all 13 regular season rankings, ranks as one of the
highest scoring teams in South Dakota prep basketball history. As they seek
their second consecutive “B” crown, White River brings in an 89.3 points per
game average. They have totaled 2,054 points on the season, while allowing
1,112, or 48.4 per game. White River won
state titles in 1955 (56-55 over Hayti), 2008 (66-50 over Langford), 2010
(66-63 over Hitchcock-Tulare), and 2012 (52-43 over Viborg-Hurley) and is
looking for a fifth this year. They also made tournament appearances in 1949,
1956, 1993, 2006 (4<sup>th</sup>), 2007 (3rd), 2009 (2nd) and 2011 (2nd). In
fact, they have finished fourth or better in each of the last seven state
tourneys. The Tigers defeated Oelrichs (20-2), 83-55, to win the Region 7B
title for the eighth straight season. Earlier, they defeated Kadoka area,
120-21, and Jones County, 102-55, in the districts. A huge favorite to repeat,
White River has scored 86 points or more 13 times, 90 points 10 times with six
games over 100. The defending champs, who will be looking to win their fourth
title in six years, have an incredible 41.46 points per game victory margin.
White River has won 21-of-23 games by at least 12 points and 19 by 20 or more.
They have scored 96 or more points four straight games and has 88 or more in
seven of the last 10 games with four over 109 points (109, 112, 120). White
River, led by head coach Eldon Marshall (225-58, 12 seasons; 205-38 at White
River, 10 seasons), features all-state guard Wyatt Krogman, a magician on the
floor, who is headed to Black Hills State. He averages 17.8 ppg (409 points) with
2.3 rpg and 7.2 apg. He has totaled 1,881 career points (14.8 ppg career average) with
465 rebounds, and an incredible 762 assists. He has had at least 157 assists in four straight
seasons and 77 or more in five straight (2008-09, 77; 2009-10, 157; 2010-11,
190; 20-11-12, 172; 2012-13, 166). Krogman also has 373 steals, including 79
this season, and 15 blocks. In terms of his points per year, Krogman scored 213
in 2008-09; 314 in 2009-10; 480 in 2010-11; 465 in 2011-12; and 409 in 2012-13.
That is three straight seasons of at least 409 points or more for the standout
guard. He has hit 49% from the field on 673-of-1,365 shooting. On three-pointers,
he has totaled 96-of-313 for 31% and has hit 439-of-636 for 69% from the foul
line. Nic Waln, a second-team all-state selection a year ago, averages 17.3
ppg, 2.2 rpg, 2.0 spg and 1.6 apg, and now has 1,253 career points. He has
scored 368 or better in three straight years (395, 2010-11; 448, 2011-12; and
368 in 2012-13). Waln is one of the team’s three-point guns. In his career, he
has made 181-of-442 for 42%. In fact over the past three years, he has made 54
3’s or more, including 68-189 in 2010-11; 54-of-109 in 2011-12 and 54-of-129 in
2012-13. Guard Joe Cameron, who had a season-high 34 points in a win over James
Valley Christian in Ft. Pierre, averaged 16.2 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 3.2 apg, 3.2 spg.
Center Tavis Burbank averages 10.2 ppg and 7.4 rebounds while forward Matt
Gillen puts up 8.7 ppg, 7.8 rpg and 1.7 spg. Burbank is hitting 68% from the
floor with all four starters with 50 percent or better from the field. On the
bench, Gilbert Morrison hits 9.1 ppg while grabbing 2.7 rpg. Tre Iyotte provides
4.9 ppg while Cory Rogers scores 2.7 ppg. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Langford Area</b> <b>Notes</b>:
Langford Area (19-4), which will make its fifth overall state tournament
appearance and third since 2007, finished third a year ago with a 55-52 win
over Sully Buttes. Langford Area is, directed by seventh-year head coach Paul
Raasch (27<sup>th</sup> overall), who is 141-28 at Langford and 405-185
overall. Langford Area, which opens with the top-seed and defending champs
White River, advanced to the State B with a 63-47 Region 1B win. In the
District 2B tourney, Langford Area defeated Hitchcock-Tulare, 47-44, and
Warner, 51-41. Langford Area, which averages 56.9 ppg and allowed 42.7 ppg, is
making 45% from the field and 61% from free throw line. They allow opponents to
make just 36% from the field. Individually, 6-3 sophomore Bo Fries leads the
attack with 18.2 ppg along with 4.0 rpg, 7.3 apg and 2.3 spg. He has hit
160-of-325 (49.2%) from the field, including 30-of-79 (37.9%) from 3-point
range. He has made 73-of-111 (65.8%) from the foul line. Forward Michael Erickson (6-2, Sr.) averages
11.2 ppg, 5.7 rpg and 1.8 spg. In the post Drew Planteen (6-3, Jr.) puts in
12.0 ppg, grabs 8.9 rpg and has blocked 2.9 shots per game. He has connected on
57% (98-of-172) from the field. Chase Larson (6-1, Jr.) averages 3.1 ppg and
2.7 rpg while forward Zach Punt (6-2, Jr.) puts up 6.1 ppg with 2.4 rpg. He has
made 31-of-93 (33%) from three-point range. Off the bench junior guard Brian
Anderson (5-9) has added 3.2 ppg while Donte Blanchard (5-7, Jr.) puts in 1.7
ppg. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Game 2 -- #4 Potter County (22-0) vs. #5 South Central (21-2)<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">#5<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Potter County</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(22-0) came into the season unheralded
but have made a case as a team to watch. At 22-0, the Battlers are the only
unbeaten team in the class. Potter County, which defeated<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Sully Buttes<span class="apple-converted-space">, 50-43, </span>in a
3B region final in Aberdeen. The Battlers, cruised to a championship in
District 6B with wins over Eureka/Bowdle, 58-39, and Herreid Selby, 60-49. The
Battlers have a 1,433-to-951 (65.14-to-41.23) scoring differential for a 23.91
victory margin. Potter County is in its first year as a co-op with Gettysburg
and Hoven. Neither of the schools has captured a state basketball title. Hoven
made one appearance at state in 1989 while Gettysburg was second in 1950, sixth
in 1970, eighth in 1975, consolation champs in 2002 with other appearances in
2004 and 2005. The Battlers are led by sophomore Chayce Hall, who is averaging
14.4 ppg (124-257, 48%), 4.5 rebounds and 4.2 steals per game, and junior Kole
Hawkinson, who scores 12.3 ppg and is the Battlers' best 3-point artist,
hitting 43-of-114 (38.4%) from deep. The Battlers also received 8.1 ppg
and 2.8 spg from Tanner Heuer, 8.2 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 2.2 spg from Tate Nafziger.
Dave Vander Vorst (4.8 ppg, 3.0 rpg), Eric Worth (4.4 ppg, 3.6 rpg), Mitch
Hinckley (4.5 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 2.0 spg) and Caleb Meinke (3.1 ppg) provide
additional scoring and rebounding support. The Battlers have knocked down
546-of-1,175 field goals for 46%, including 78-of-262 for 30% from 3-point
range. They are 257-of-496 for 52% from the foul stripe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>South Central</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(21-2) advanced to the State B Tournaments, for
the first time in the current co-op of Bonesteel, Fairfax and Burke. Bonnesteel
qualified for the B in 1941 and 1959
while Burke made it in 1957 and Fairfax advanced to the tourney in 1952
and 1958. So, in reality, this will be the school’s combined first state
appearance since 1959 or some 54 years. South Central advanced to State with a
63-62 win over Ethan in a 6B regional final. They rolled to a District 12B
crown after wins over Tripp-Delmont/Armour, 58-32, and Dakota Christian, 60-41.
South Central has outscored opponents, 1,246-to-953 or a points per game
margin of 54.17-to-41.43 (11.03 victory margin). Clearly head coach Clayton
Steele's team plays tight defense as South Central has held 14 teams under 44
points and has 13 wins by double digits, including six by 20 points or more.
They are 4-0 in games decided by no more than four points, including a 2-0 mark
in overtime games. Leading the way for South Central is forward Tyler Frank,
who averages 17.7 ppg with 7.3 rpg while hitting 55% from the field. He also
doles out 3.8 apg and averages 1.4 spg. Two other players average double
figures including center Sam Hazen at 11.0 ppg and 8.2 rpg and point guard
Dakota Totaco, who scores at 11.4 ppg clip while dishing out 5.8 dimes and
hauling in 3.0 rebounds. Also in the mix is Garrett Bruns (3.8 ppg) and Josh
Tuttle (8.0 ppg, 4.4 rpg). Zach Sebern (3.3 ppg) is a solid contributor off the
bench. South Central averages 28.6 rebounds per game and hits 46% from the
field, 57% from the foul line and 11.6 steals.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Game 3 - #2 James Valley Christian
(21-2) vs. #7 Viborg-Hurley (21-2)<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>#4 James Valley Christian Notes</b>: JVC<b> (21-2)</b>, which is seeking its first state title, advanced to the State B
for the fourth time with a 72-63 win over Kimball/White Lake. Directed by head
coach Darwin Hofer (38-7 in two seasons at JVC and 248-133 overall record), JVC
won districts with a 63-58 win over #3 Wolsey-Wessington, 63-58. It was sweet
revenge for James Valley Christian, who lost to Wolsey-Wessington in the
District finals in 2011-12. Earlier this season JVC defeated Wolsey-Wessington,
66-58.before the Warbirds returned the favor in the season finale with a 62-57
win. Also in districts JVC recorded a 92-35 win over Wessington Springs. JVC is
led by two-time all-state performer Adam<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Hofer,
who has 1,765 career points. He is headed to play basketball at Dakota State.
Hofer, who is playing in his third state tourney, averages 22.2 ppg with 4.2
rpg and 4.7 assists per game. He hits 51.4% (201-of-391) from the field, including
41.8% from 3-point range, connecting on a team-high 46-of-110 long distance
shots. Junior Andrew<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Ulvestad<span class="apple-converted-space">, a 6-4 center who was All-State Tournament two
years ago, averages 11.8 ppg with 6.2 rpg and hits 50.6% (91-180) from the
field. </span>Nathan<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Wedel<span class="apple-converted-space"> adds 17.6 points and 7.9 rpg while connecting on
67.6% from the field. Wudel, who has 946 career points, has hit 163-of-241
field goal attempts. He is a sizzling 17-of-32 from 3-point range. In addition
for JVC, Alex Walder averages 6.9 ppg and Leon Brondsema, whose dad Dave was a
sixth man on the 1986 Dakota Christian State B championship squad, has scored
at a 6.1 ppg clip while gathering in 4.0 rpg. He has hit 65.9% (54-of-82) from
the field. As a team, JVC makes 56.2% (673-of-1,198) from the field, including
40.5% (117-of-289) from 3-point range. Overall, JVC has </span>a 1,720-to-1,157
scoring differential, which breaks out to 74.91-to-50.3 ppg and a 24.6 victory
margin. Darwin Hofer's squad has won 17-of-22 games by at least 19 points.
Keep in mind that<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>JVC<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>nearly upended White River earlier
this season on a neutral floor in Fort Pierre. In a back-and-forth affair,
White River took a 77-74 victory despite 25 points from<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Hofer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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#5 <b>Viborg-Hurley</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(21-2),
led by 6-6 forward Andrew Hora (13.6 ppg, 8.5 rpg, 1.5 bpg), forward Tyler
Gerdes (10.2 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 1.7 apg) and guards Jack Huether (10.8 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 1.7 apg) and Trevor
Jacobsen (10.6 ppg, 1.7 rpg, 1.5 spg), has made consecutive state title games
in two<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>different classes and now
go for their second straight in Class B. A year ago, they fell to White River,
52-43, in a B final (finished 23-3) and was runner-up to St. Thomas More,
63-47, in Class A two years ago. V-H, which defeated Canistota, 50-44, in the
Region 4B final and will make a 10th state tournament appearance. While
Viborg-Hurley doesn't have a championship in its current co-op, it can
claim one with Hurley, which won a title in 2007 over Mitchell Christian,
44-42. Otherwise, the schools have had a combined four top-3 finishes. V-H is
led by head coach <span style="color: #231f20; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Garamond;">Galen Schoenefeld, who is in his
10<sup>th</sup> season (14<sup>th</sup> overall) and has a 203-126 record,
including 193-59 with the Cougars. </span>V-H won District 8B with a 59-35 win over Alcester-Hudson and a
43-40 decision over Centerville in the championship. Overall, Viborg-Hurley has
a 1,446-to-989 overall scoring edge against opponents, which breaks out to
62.9-to-43.0 ppg or a victory margin of 19.9 ppg. This squad has made
546-of-1,185 field goals for 46.1%, including 136-of-398 for 25.5% from 3-point
range as well as 218-of-330 for 66.1% from the foul stripe. Aside from the four
double digit scorers, others contributing include Seth Anderson (5.4 ppg, 3.0
rpg), Austin Bjerkaas (4.1 ppg, 3.9 rpg) and Dylan Kludt (2.1 ppg). Jacobsen is
the leading 3-point shooter at 42.4% on 42-of-99 conversions. Four players have
at least 20 three-pointers on the season. Huether has 26 (70 att.), Hora, 22
(66 att.) and Gerdes, 20 (59 att.). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><u>Game 4 – #3 Dupree (22-1) vs. #6 Arlington (17-4)</u></b><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Dupree Notes: </b>Dupree<span class="apple-converted-space"><b> </b></span>(22-1),
which has won 19-straight games, has advanced to the State B for the second
straight season after taking 7<sup>th</sup> a year ago. Dupree advanced to the
tourney with a 66-51 win over Faith in Region 8B. Dupree is led by head coach
Jim Hood, who has guided the team for 10 seasons and coached for 27 years.
Hood, originally of Irene, placed in the State B Tourney in 1963 when Irene was
fifth. An all-state player for three years and all-state football player twice,
he was once ranked in the nation’s top 500 players before going onto Yankton
College and Southern State. This year, he has built a dangerous team that can
score at will and has left a lot of teams in its wake. Dupree, which has not
lost to a South Dakota opponent this season, features one of the best players
in Class B in Nate Widow, who has scored 1,085 career points, and rugged 6-1
forward Kash Deal, whose brother Kaden is an assistant coach on the team.
Widow, who averages 25.0 ppg, 5.0 rpg and 3.0 spg and 2.1 apg., has scored over
30 points eight times this year, twice scoring 37 points. Widow, who hits 52%
from the field, has made 62-of-165 shots from three-point range for 38 percent.
Deal, who is a saddle bronc rider during summers, averages 12.0 ppg, 5.0 rpg,
2.0 apg and 2.0 steals has made 54% of his field goal attempts. He has 970
career points. Led by the senior duo, Dupree rolled to a District 15B crown
with a 70-37 win over McIntosh and a 70-36 decision against Timber Lake as
Widow scored a combined 48 points. Dupree has scored over 90 points in
4-of-7 games. The Tigers own a 1,741-1,037 point differential or a margin of
75.69 -to-45.09 ppg and a per game victory margin of 30.06. Dupree has scored
90 points or more eight times with 20 victories in double digits. Dupree is
making a fourth tourney appearance (1982,
1984, 2012). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Arlington Notes</b>: Arlington (17-4), led by head
coach Mike Parry (16 years), has advanced to the State Tournament for the first
time since 2008. Arlington will make its 11<sup>th</sup> tourney appearance.
They won titles in 1938 (32-17 over Doland), 1968 (69-64 over Parker) and 2006
(64-57 over Faith). They won Districts with a 62-40 win over DeSmet and a 63-51
decision against Castlewood. Arlington won Region 2B over Colman-Egan, 60-50. Guard
Tage Hargens leads the team in scoring at 18.3 per game along with 6.7 rebounds
per contest. He hits 47.5% from the field and has 55 assists and 31 steals.
Guard Andrew King is scoring 15 points per game with 4.7 rebounds, 5.0 apg and
1.4 spg. Also contributing is center Zach Warnke (9.0 ppg, 7.0 rpg), and
forwards Cole VanBockern (6.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg) and Lane Weber (8.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg).
Reserves included Alex Heuer (3.0 ppg, 1.6 rpg), Tanner Lemme (3.7 ppg, 3.5
rpg) and Logan Kangas (2.0 ppg). Arlington averages 65 points per game and
pulls down 34 rebounds while hitting 41% from the field, 70% from the foul
line. They record 10 steals per game. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-31355079614885111542013-03-09T08:51:00.001-08:002013-03-09T15:27:22.658-08:00SD Girls HS BB Championship Previews - Mitchell, Harrisburg, Warner to Prevail<br />
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With the South Dakota Girls Basketball Tournaments reaching
championship Saturday, this blog will preview the games with picks. Four teams
(Sioux Falls Lincoln, Harrisburg, Warner, DeSmet) will be looking to win their
first-ever state titles. Good luck to all the teams. It should be a fun-filled
evening in the three venues of Rapid City, Watertown and Huron. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b> AA Final - Mitchell (22-3) vs. Sioux Falls
Lincoln (16-8), Rapid City Rushmore Civic Plaza</b><i><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>Game Preview: Mitchell
is the defending champions and will be a big favorite against their finals’
opponent, Sioux Falls Lincoln, which has won a pair of close games to
surprisingly advance to the championship. Lincoln features the dominant inside
presence of Cera Ledbetter, along with a talented point guard in Darby Hugunin
and upcoming scorer in Ellie Brecht. Mitchell is led by a pair of all-state
performers in Kerri Young and Marcy Miller, both who will one day play
collegiately at SDSU. Miller was the difference in a semifinal win over Sioux
Falls Washington and may be the state’s top player. Her ability to penetrate
and score is difficult to defend. Lincoln is on fire right now and will give
the Kernels problems inside. If Ledbetter stays out of trouble and the Pats can
get a few perimeter shots to drop they could pull a surprise. However, my
thought is that Macy Miller and Kerri Young are a tough duo to stop. They will
get a second title as Miller scores 20 again and Young has double figures.
Miller took over the Washington game in the fourth quarter, expect her to do
again. Mitchell wins it, 59-51.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<b><i>Mitchell Notes</i></b>: #3 Mitchell (22-3), which defeated Rapid City
Central, 54-43, and Sioux Falls Washington, 46-37, has returned to the State AA
finals in search of its sixth title. The Kernels captured the 2012 crown with a
56-54 win over SF Washington. They also won titles in 2003 (71-40, Aberdeen
Central), 1994 (Yankton, 42.32), 1992 (Sioux Falls Roosevelt, 52-43) and 1990
(Yankton, 57-49). In its 23rd state tourney appearance, Mitchell finished
second five times with three squads take third. The Kernels, directed by head
coach Wes Morgan (74-45), has held 17 opponents to 37 points or less, including
SF Washington in the AA semifinals. Overall, the Kernels own a 1,593-to-954
scoring margin or 63.72 ppg. They have allowed 38.16 points per game for a
class-best 25.56 ppg victory margin.
Mitchell is led by senior forward and SDSU recruit Kerri Young (17.5
ppg, 6.3 rpg, 2.3 spg), who set the school record for points and has 1,749 for
her career. Junior guard Macy Miller (19.6 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 3.0 spg), also a SDSU
recruit, has a career total of 1,143. Miller, who dad Alan is DWU’s all-time
leader scorer with 2,910 points (most by any collegian in South Dakota history)
may be the best player in South Dakota. She has scored 35 points in the two
wins, including 21 vs. Sioux Falls Washington, including scoring nearly every
time the Warriors made a run at the Kernels in the semifinals. Kristi Sabers
(8.8 ppg, 4.1 rpg), a Dakota Wesleyan recruit is another key member of the team
and can light it up. She has 30 points
in the two games, second high to Miller’s 35.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><i>Sioux Falls Lincoln Notes</i></b>: #5 SF Lincoln (16-8), searching for
their first-ever championship, will face familiar foe in Mitchell. Earlier this season, they lost to at Mitchell,
60-46. Sioux Falls Lincoln has won two tournament games by a total of six points
with a 41-37 win over Sioux Falls Roosevelt and then a 50-48 decision over
top-ranked and #1 seed Aberdeen Central. The Patriots, directed by fifth-year
coach Lyle Pearson (68-48 as Lincoln Girl’s Coach and 432-272 in his career,
including boys and girls records), are participating at the State AA for the
16th time. They have never won a state title but finished second three times in
1984, 1986 and 1989. The Pats have a 1,234-to-1,039
scoring differential for a 51.41-to-43.29 margin, and a per game victory total
of 8.12. This group is led by seniors Darby Hugunin (Creighton soccer recruit),
who averages 12.8 points and 4.6 rebounds per game. Hugunin missed several
games due to injury but has 18 points, 14 rebounds, four assists and three steals
in two games at the tournament. Senior Cera Ledbetter (13.6 ppg, 5.3 rpg) is a
talented and powerful inside presence for the Pats. She has 36 points, 19
rebounds, and nine blocks in two games, emerging as the dominant inside
presence in the AA. Ledbetter’s two free throws with 2.9 seconds left provided
the winning margin against Aberdeen Central. Ellie Brecht, the daughter of
former South Dakota great Amy Mickelson (1st team All-State, 1985, Brookings),
has 21 points in the two games, including 15 in the opening round win over
Sioux Falls Roosevelt. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>A Final - #1
Harrisburg (24-1) vs. #3 Pine Ridge
(23-1), Watertown Civic Arena<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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<b>Game Preview</b><i>: Harrisburg, riding an 18-game winning
streak, is vying for a first-ever title in a dream season. Unbeaten against
Class A opponents this year, Harrisburg had to fight off a game Sioux Falls
Christian team in the opening round and then rally from 15 points down against
Aberdeen Roncalli to advance to the state title game for the first time in
school history. Pine Ridge has been the dominant team in the tourney with a
pair of double digit wins. The Thorpes are chasing their third ever title. Both
teams have basically rolled over opponents with the top-ranked Tigers owning a
25.08 victory margin and Pine Ridge sitting at 31.29. Harrisburg will have to
try and slow down the Thorpes, who have a class-best 71.75 points per game.
Harrisburg also averages 66.48 per game. Look for this game to be decided in
the fourth quarter with Harrisburg’s defense and size playing a role. Go with
Harrisburg, 65-57.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<b>Harrisburg Notes</b>:
Harrisburg (24-1), directed by fifth year head coach Marcus Leloux (69-23), are
playing out a dream season, making their first-ever title game. Harrisburg has
a 242-161 scoring advantage in the post season. At the state tournament, Morgan
Beaner’s double-double of 21 points and 11 points lifted Harrisburg to a 60-52
win over Sioux Falls Christian in the opening round. In the semifinals,
Harrisburg overcame a difficult first half (trailed 21-9) and rallied from 15
down to defeated Harrisburg, 47-37. Hailey Halling had 21 points and four
rebounds, including 17 in the second half when the Tigers outscored the
Cavaliers, 39-16. Beaner (11.ppg, 4. rpg, 2.3 spg) has 28 points, 20 rebounds
and five steals through two games while Hailey Halling (13.5 ppg, 5.2 rpg,) has
29 points, 11 rebounds and two steals. Guard Morgan Krier (5.0 ppg, 5.1 rpg,
2.8 spg) has also played big with 22 points, eight rebounds and three steals in
two games. She had 13 points, including 3-of-4 from 3-point range in the
opening round win. The Tigers have a 1,555-to-1,035 points advantage over
opponents, which breaks out to a 66.48-to-41.4 ppg edge or a per game victory
margin of 25.08. Harrisburg has won 17 games by 16 points or more and 22 by
double digits. In the state tournament, Harrisburg’s defense and rebounding
have been critical in the two wins as the Tigers have 27 steals (17 vs.
Aberdeen Roncalli) and 72 rebounds (43 vs. Chamberlain). <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Pine Ridge Notes</b>: Pine Ridge (23-1), which will play for a
third state A title, has only a 1-point loss at Todd County keep them from an
unblemished mark heading into the state title game. The Thropes have advanced
to the title game with a 55-34 win over Chamberlain and a 63-53 win over West
Central for an overall 118-87 edge in points at the state tourney. In the
postseason, they have a 237-to-183 edge in four wins (played one district round
game). Pine Ridge, which is making its 11th state tournament appearance, has a
1,722-to-971 scoring differential, or a class-best 71.75 ppg while allowing 40.46
ppg for a victory margin of 31.29. The Thorpes won the A title in 1989 (42-40
over Milbank) and 2009 (63-57 over Dell Rapids) while finishing second in 2004
and third in 2010. Pine Ridge has scored at least 65 points in 18 games and has
held eight opponents to 34 points or less. Pine Ridge finished the regular
season with six games over 85 points and three over 100. Directed by head coach
Laura Big Crow (2nd season), Pine Ridge is led by Jolonna Sazue (17.4 ppg, 6.0
rpg, 5.4 apg, 6.2 spg), who has 25 points, nine rebounds and five steals in two
games. However, freshman Shaylene Richard (5.4 ppg) has been the big spark for
the Thorpes with 26 points (14, 12) and
four rebounds in two games. Santana White Dress (14.2 ppg, 8.2 rpg) has 21 points,
17 rebounds and three steals while sophomore Lynette Bettelyoun (8.7 ppg) has 15 points and a team-high 19
rebounds. Pine Ridge, which had nine players score in the win <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>B-Final #1 Warner
(24-1) vs. #2 DeSmet (24-1), Huron Arena<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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<i>The Class B final
involves the #1 vs. #2 seeds in any of the tournaments. In the matchup, both
Warner and DeSmet will try to win a first-ever state championship. Both teams
have had dominant runs in the postseason. Both teams are fairly young with few
seniors and will be a factor in 2014. Something will have to give in this
matchup of teams that like to play defense and rebound. Warner has a victory
margin of 24.36 while DeSmet sits at 22.88. Defensively, the Monarchs allow
just 29.84 points while DeSmet gives up about 32.24. Both teams averaged a
little over 54 points per game. Maybe the first team to 50 wins this game. More
like it, we will see a close game, decided in the fourth. Warner wins it,
45-39.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Warner Notes</b>: The
Monarchs are the favorite to capture the school’s first ever girl’s basketball
title. The Monarchs, an athletic bunch, upset two-time defending champions and
top-ranked Summit, 48-44 in the Region 1B final. Warner, which has a 269-184
scoring edge in postseason, had defeated every team besides Summit by double
digit margins until Sully Buttes fell 47-38 in the semifinals. Warner won a
first-round game with Timber Lake, 63-43. In two state tournament games, Warner
has built huge first-half leads, including 36-22 vs. Timber Lake and 27-7 against
Sully Buttes for an overall 63-29 edge. Warner, which doesn’t shoot many 3’s
(5-12), utilizes its height (four starters over 6-0) and is hitting 40-of-62
from the floor for 64.5%. In the state
tournament, 6-2 junior Miranda Ristau (14.0 ppg, 6.0 rpg) is leading the way
with 37 points, 15 rebounds, four blocks and five steals. She had 27 points,
nine rebounds and three blocks in the opening round win over Timber Lake.
Others with major contributions so far include senior Rachel Rogers (12.0 ppg,
9.0 rpg) with 27 points, 12 rebounds, three blocks and four steals; and standout
sophomore Ashley Rozell (14.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 4.0 apg, 3.0 spg), with 32 points,
four rebounds and eight assists. She has scored 17 and 15 points in the two
games. Also junior Carly Rozell (5.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg) has provided 14 points, 15
rebounds, nine assists and six steals. Second year coach Stewart Bohle (42-4),
who guided Warner to a 20-3 campaign a year ago, has a team that has built a 1,355-to-746
scoring differential, which breaks out to 54.2-to-29.84 ppg, or a per game
victory margin of 24.36. Warner has compiled 22 double digit wins, including 18
by 20 points or more. The Monarchs have held 15 opponents to 31 points or less
and 19 under 40 points. Warner’s only loss was to #1 Summit, 52-41, in Warner.
The Monarchs are making their third appearance in the State B, the first since
1996. They were third in 1995.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>DeSmet Notes: </b>DeSmet, which has nine straight wins since a regular
season loss to Clark-Willow Lake, are making the school’s first-ever appearance
in the State B title game. The Bulldogs only other appearance was a third place
finish at the 1994 tournament. DeSmet advanced to the title game with double
digit wins vs. Parker (52-34) and Hanson (47-36). In fact, in all five
postseason games, the Bulldogs own a 280-to-171 overall scoring edge and have
yet to allow a team to score more than 44 points. That goes along with their
defensive prowess all season, holding 10 opponents to under 30 points. DeSmet
has a 1,378-to-806 scoring differential, or a 55.12-to-32.24ppg margin or a 22.88
per game victory total. DeSmet has won 19 games by double digits totals. Head
Coach Doug Osthus, who is 61-28 at DeSmet, has a team that exhibits great
balance on offense and tenacious defense. In the tournament, the Bulldogs have
been led by sophomore Rylie Osthus (8.5 ppg, 3.0 rpg), who has scoring 29
points, grabbed 15 rebounds with a steal. She had 20 points and 10 rebounds in
the opening round win over Parker. Senior forward Amanda Poppen (9.0 ppg, 7.0
rpg) has added 23 points, 10 rebounds and three steals, reaching double digits
(10, 13) in both games. Junior Grayson Gruenhagen (8.5 ppg, 3.0 rpg) has added
17 points, six rebounds and three steals while junior Taylor Schoenfelder (6.3 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 3.0 spg) has totaled 16
points, four rebounds and six assists in the two tourney games. Like Warner,
DeSmet doesn’t shoot many 3’s (2-10) but instead do well inside the arch
(34-of-74, 45.9%). They have 56 rebounds
and 14 steals, using a common thread of winning teams with defense and board
work.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-77728589747944890732013-03-06T18:38:00.002-08:002013-03-07T16:45:06.639-08:00South Dakota Girls BB State Tourney Preview - Favorites, Contenders<br />
With the South Dakota Girls basketball tournaments upon us, here is a look at the favorites, and other contenders in each class. The tourneys begin tomorrow. My picks - I like Mitchell in AA, Harrisburg in A and Warner in B, which means if it happens, two teams (Harrisburg, Warner) will win their first-ever title.<br />
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I know, I know, way to go out on a limb. Regardless it will be a trio of state tournaments worth the price of admission.<br />
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<b><u>Class AA - Rapid City - Rushmore Civic Center</u></b><br />
#1 Aberdeen Central (20-1) vs. #8 Sturgis (9-14)<br />
#4 Sioux Falls Roosevelt (16-6) vs. Sioux Falls Lincoln (14-8)<br />
#2 Sioux Falls Washington (20-2) vs. Sioux Falls O’Gorman (14-9)<br />
#3 Mitchell (20-3) vs. Rapid City Central (14-7)<br />
<br />
<b>Favorites --</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Aberdeen Central (20-1) </b><br />
Aberdeen Central, which faces Sturgis (9-14) is seeking its first-ever AA title, even though they have finished second in 2003, 2004 and third in 1978, 1979, 1984 and 2011. The Golden Eagles, which defeated Sturgis, 62-52 earlier this season, finished fifth at the AA Tourney a year ago. The Golden Eagles are the top seed in the tournament and is the only team with just one loss. They are making their 11th straight tourney appearance and 22nd overall Head Coach Dawn Seiler, who is 495-187, leads a team that has been ranked #1 this year and in the top three all season. They advanced to the State Tournament with a 72-47 win over Huron and a 64-62 win over Mitchell. It was the second win over the defending champs in three games (71-63), which defeated Aberdeen Central, 57-35, at Mitchell. The Golden Eagles are led by Samantha Knecht, who has 1,134 career points, is averaging 15.6 ppg and 8.4 rpg. Brynn Flakus scores 13.2 ppg with 4.6 rpg while Sara Niederbaumer averages 10.1 ppg and grabs 6.6 rebounds. In addition, Senior guard Kelsey Hannigan (5.1 ppg), Leah Beringer (5.1 ppg, 42.1% on threes) and top reserve freshman Brianna Kusler (5.1 ppg) are key players. Aberdeen Central, which has 17 double digit wins and 13 victories of 15 points or more, owns a 1,227 (58.43)-to-835 (39.76) scoring differential or per game victory margin of 18.67 ppg. The Golden Eagles have held 12 opponents to 40 points or less.<br />
<br />
<b>Sioux Falls Washington (20-2)</b><br />
#2 SF Washington, which has won five AA titles, will make its 17th appearance in the AA Championships. The Warriors, led by head coach Nate Malchow (137-52), last won it all in 2010 in a 60-43 win over Rapid City Stevens. They also have crowns in 2008 (44-41, Pierre Riggs), 1981 (57-37, Yankton), 1980 (52-45, Canton) and 1906. SF Washington also placed third in 1986. A balanced, athletic team, SFW will face a familiar foe in Sioux Falls O’Gorman (14-9), a team they beat at Districts, 48-30, and earlier this season, 70-36. SFW advanced to the State AA after defeating Brandon Valley, 59-31, and rolled to a 55-37 win over SF Lincoln to win districts and advance to the State AA. The Warriors have a 1,217-to-790 scoring edge vs. opponents, which breaks out to 55.3-to-35.91 ppg edge or a per game victory margin of 19.39. Washington has held 14-of-22 opponents to 37 points or less. The balance of Malchow’s crew shows up in the statistics where no player averages in double digits and is led by Kansas volleyball recruit and forward Emma Hanson at 9.2 ppg, and 5.7 rpg). Junior point guard Ellie Benson (8.3 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 2.5 spg, 1.3 apg), the daughter of former prep standout JoElle Byre (6th all-time in scoring, member of WHS titlists in 1980 and 1981), directs the offense. The Warriors also have senior guard Denae Veldkamp (8.0 ppg, 2.0 apg, 2.2 rpg), forward Sydney Koel (8.4 ppg, 4.9 rpg), Michaela Mayer (7.2 ppg) and Hannah Nieman (6.8 ppg, 1.6 spg). Nieman, the daughter of Midco Communication’s announcer Tom Nieman who was a basketball standout at SDSU and Huron, is SFW’s top perimeter threat as she has connected on 33-of-88 shots for 37.5% from 3-point range while Kelsey Knecht (4.7 ppg) is 22-of-71. As a team, the Warriors have hit (88-300) 29% from 3-point range, 43% from the field and 65% at the foul stripe.<br />
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<b>Mitchell (20-3)</b> <br />
#3 Mitchell, which face Rapid City Central (14-7) has returned to the State AA in search of its sixth title. The Kernels, which own a 77-38 win over their first-round opponent RC Central, captured the 2012 crown with a 56-54 win over SF Washington. They also won titles in 2003 (71-40, Aberdeen Central), 1994 (Yankton, 42.32), 1992 (Sioux Falls Roosevelt, 52-43) and 1990 (Yankton, 57-49). In its 23rd state tourney appearance, Mitchell finished second five times with three squads take third. The Kernels defeated Pierre, 59-40, before losing to #3 Aberdeen Central, 64-62, as a 14-game winning streak ended. The defending champs advanced back to the State AA Tournament with a 67-36 win over Rapid City Stevens in a regional play-in game. The Kernels, directed by head coach Wes Morgan, has held 16 opponents to 37 points or less. Morgan, who starred on two state-title teams, is in the Dakota Wesleyan Hall of Fame. Overall, the Kernels own a 1,493-to-874 scoring margin or Class-best 64.91 ppg. They have allowed 38.0 points per game for a class-best 26.91 ppg victory margin. Mitchell is led by senior forward and SDSU recruit Kerri Young (17.5 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 2.3 spg), who set the school record for points and has 1,731 for her career. Junior guard Macy Miller (19.6 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 3..0 spg), also a SDSU recruit, had 18 to push her career total to 1,106. Miller, who dad Alan is DWU’s all-time leader scorer with 2,910 points (most by any collegian in South Dakota history) may be the best player in South Dakota. Kristi Sabers (8.8 ppg, 4.1 rpg), a Dakota Wesleyan recruit is another key member of the team and can light it up. They also feature guard Megan Farnham (6.1 ppg_ and senior forward Moore (5.0 ppg, 3.0 rpg).<br />
<br />
<b>Other Contenders</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>SF Roosevelt (16-6)</b><br />
#4 SF Roosevelt, led by Tagyn Larson’s 23 points, defeated Brookings, 57-39, and O’Gorman, 50-44, to win Districts and advance to the AA Tourney. The Rough Riders have a 1,270-to-1,098 scoring differential which breaks out to 57.73-to-49.91 ppg edge or a 7.821 victory margin. Head Coach Chris Clark, who is 143-49 in eight seasons with the Rough Riders, has a deep, and athletic squad. Larson, a 6-3 sophomore forward, leads the way with 12.2 ppg, 8.2 rpg, and 4.0 bpg. Senior Lauren Kunz (11.9 ppg, 3.5 rpg) and junior Paige Mriden (11.1 ppg, 2.5 rpg) can light it up from the perimeter. They also feature junior Nicole Hatcher (8.7 ppg, 5.2 rpg, 4.0 apg, 2.5 spg), senior Haleigh Gunn (7.0 ppg, 4.1 rpg) and senior Katelyn Johnson (6.4 ppg, 4.2 rpg). The Patriots and Rough Riders split with Lincoln winning 59-54 and Roosevelt prevailing, 57-52. Interestingly, Northern State softball recruit Kunz is the granddaughter of Gayle Hoover, who scored 2,169 points at the University of Sioux Falls and was a legendary coach at Parker.<br />
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<b>Sioux Falls Lincoln (14-8) </b><br />
#5 SF Lincoln defeated Yankton, 54-29, and then lost to Sioux Falls Washington, 55-37, in Districts. The Patriots advanced to the AA Tourney with a 54-29 win over Watertown. The Patriots, directed by fifth-year coach Lyle Pearson (66-48 as Lincoln Girl’s Coach and 430-272 in his career, including boys and girls records), are participating at the State AA for the 16th time. They have never won a state title but finished second three times in 1984, 1986 and 1989. The Pats have a 1,143-to-954 scoring differential for a 51.95-to-43.36 margin, and a per game victory total of 8.59. This group is led by seniors Darby Hugunin (Creighton soccer recruit), who averages 12.8 points and 4.6 rebounds per game. Hugunin missed several games due to injury but played in two of three postseason games and will be available at the tournament. Senior Cera Ledbetter (13.6 ppg, 5.3 rpg) is a talented and powerful inside presence for the Pats. Ellie Brecht, the daughter of former South Dakota great Amy Mickelson (1st team All-State, 1985, Brookings), has caught fire and is scoring 9.1 points with 2.2 rebounds per game. Senior Mica Standing Soldier (5.1 ppg, 3.5 rpg), junior Emilee Pierson (5.4 ppg, 3.2 rpg) and senior Shelby Merritt (3.8 ppg, 2.8 rpg) will play contributing roles.<br />
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<b>Sioux Falls O’Gorman (14-9)</b><br />
SF O’Gorman defeated Watertown, 50-33, and lost to Roosevelt, 50-44 in Districts. The Knights ran past Yankton, 40-31, to advance to the State AA. O’Gorman, which has won 6-of-9, has an 1,027 (44.65)-to-980 (42.65) or victory margin of 2.0 points. Directed by Kent Kolsrud (15th year, 223-130), the Knights are making a 16th appearance at the AA tourney. Sixth a year ago, they won the 1995 title (44-41, Mitchell) and finished second three times. O’Gorman are led by 6-2 sophomore Jessica Meiras (13.0 ppg, 8.9 rpg), the team’s only double digit scorer. They also received contributions from senior guard Allie Kneip (6.5 ppg, 3.8 rpg), sophomore guard Dalee Stene (6.8 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 3.1 apg), and junior Claire Howes (4.7 ppg, 3.1 rpg).<br />
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<b><u>Class A - Watertown Civic Center</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
#1 Harrisburg (21-1) vs. Sioux Falls Christian (15-7)<br />
#4 Clark/Willow Lake (16-6) vs. #5 Aberdeen Roncalli (18-3)<br />
#2 Spearfish (17-5) vs. #7 West Central (18-5)<br />
#3 Pine Ridge (21-1) vs. #6 Chamberlain (21-1)<br />
<br />
<b>Favorites - </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Harrisburg (22-1)</b><br />
#1 Harrisburg, directed by fifth year head coach Marcus Leloux (67-23), advanced to its first-ever state tournament with a 56-37 win over Beresford. The Tigers, which opens with Sioux Falls Christian (15-7) on Thursday, won District 7A with 84-41 win over Tea Area and a 51-31 decision of Lennox for a 135-72 overall edge in postseason play. The Tigers, led by standout junior forwards Morgan Beaner (11.ppg, 4. rpg, 2.3 spg) and Hailey Halling (13.5 ppg, 5.2 rpg,). The also have junior Alex Johnson (7.8 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 2.8 spg), senior Morgan Krier (5.0 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 2.8 spg), senior Brittany Blakney (5.6 ppg, 3.7 apg, 2.5 spg) and top reserve ins Morgan Darner (6.2 ppg) and sophomoe Danni Honner (6.6 ppg), whose mother Dana (Nielsen) was a standout at Armour (2,310 points, 13th all-time) and Augustana. The Tigers have built a 16-game winning streak. They have a 1,555-to-946 points advantage over opponents, which breaks out to a 67.61-to-41.13 ppg edge or a per game victory margin of 26.48. Harrisburg has won 17 games by 16 points or more.<br />
<br />
<b>Others Contenders </b><br />
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<b>Chamberlain (21-1)</b><br />
#3 Chamberlain, which faces Pine Ridge in the final game of the A Tourney Thursday, advanced to its third state tournament in school history (first since 2005). While the Cubs do not have a state title, they are a hot squad with 19 straight wins, including a 53-35 win over Cheyenne Eagle Butte in the region final. They advanced to regions with a 56-24 District 12 title win over Crow Creek. Chamberlain, which only has a 49-46 loss to Parkston, now has a 1,294-to-878 scoring differential vs. opponents, which breaks out to 59.09-to-40.14 ppg or an 18.95 per game victory margin. Chamberlain, led by third-year coach Jeff Neuharth (68-80), has 17 wins by double digits. Chamberlain, which is making its third state tourney appearance, is led by junior Kennedy Wagner, who averages 15.1 ppg, 4.6 apg, 3.8 rpg, and 2.1 spg. She has hit 80-of-162 shots from the field and 99-of-113 free throws. Jaymee Knippling (8.6 ppg), Alex Peterson (8.5 ppg, 33 3 pt. shots) and Logan Pickner (7.3 ppg) are other significant contributors.<br />
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<b>Pine Ridge (21-1)</b><br />
#4 Pine Ridge, which has only a 1-point loss at Todd County, defeated Bennett County, 52-37 to capture the District 16 crown. The Thorpes advanced to the State A with a 67-59 win over Winner. Pine Ridge, which is making its 11th state tournament appearance, has a 1,604-to-884 scoring differential, or a class-best 72.91 ppg while allowing 40.19 ppg for a victory margin of 32.72. The Thorpes won the A title in 1989 (42-40 over Milbank) and 2009 (63-57 over Dell Rapids) while finishing second in 2004 and third in 2010. Pine Ridge has scored at least 65 points in 18 games and has held seven opponents to 33 points or less. Pine Ridge finished the regular season with six games over 85 points and three over 100. Directed by head coach Laura Big Crow (2nd season), Pine Ridge is led by Jolonna Sazue (17.4 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 5.4 apg, 6.2 spg), a 5-8 senior, sophomore Lynette Bettelyoun (8.7 ppg, 5.3 rpg), senior Shaniah Richard (9.2 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 3.0 spg), senior Anissa Martin (11.3 ppg, 3.3 apg), junior Santana White Dress (14.2 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 4.7 apg, 4.9 spg) and freshman Shaylene Richard (5.4 ppg).<br />
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<b>Aberdeen Roncalli (18-3)</b><br />
Aberdeen Roncalli advanced to the State A for the first time in school history after a 43-31 win against Milbank in Region 1A. The Cavaliers claimed the District 1A crown with a 53-40 win over Britton/Hecla. Roncalli has been one of the top defensive teams in Class A, holding opponents to 32.91 points per game. They have held nine teams under 30 points and 16 to 40 or under while recording a win over #1 B Summit (36-34). The Cavaliers, which has a 1,004-to-691 scoring differential, which breaks out to 47.81-to-32.90 ppg or a victory margin of 14.91. Roncalli has nine straight wins and has won 12-of-13. The Cavaliers, directed by third-year head coach Derek Larson (49-17), are led by senior forward Mollee Karst 15.0 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 2.3 spg), forward Morgan Gunderson (10.2 ppg, 2.7 rpg) and senior guard Taylor Hanson (5.7 ppg, 2.0 rpg, 2.6 apg).<br />
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<b>Spearfish (17-4)</b><br />
Spearfish, which will participate in its fifth state tournament (either AA or A), won Region 8A with a 56-36 win over Red Cloud. The Spartans captured District 16A by upsetting #2 St Thomas More, 46-44, after defeating Lead-Deadwood, 75-49. The Spartans, who are seeded second and seeking their first-ever state title, have a 1241-to-886 overall scoring differential for a 59.09-to-42.19 ppg edge and a victory margin of 16.9 ppg. Directed by head coach Eric Lappe is led by seniors Bethany Crosswait (13.2 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 2.7 apg, 24-78, 3 pt), Kaitlin Spargur (6.7 ppg, 4.4 rpg), Whitney Senden (5.1 ppg) and Miranda Meeker (7.6 ppg, 4.1 rpg), and junior Kaitlin Hinch (11.4 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 18-40, 3 pt.).<br />
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<b><u>Class B - Huron Arena</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
#1 Warner (22-1) vs. #8 Timber Lake (16-7)<br />
#4 Sanborn Central/Woonsocket (21-1) vs. #5 Sully Buttes (20-3)<br />
#2 DeSmet (21-1) vs. #7 Parker (15-8)<br />
#3 Hanson (21-2) vs. #6 Wall (18-3)<br />
<br />
<b>Favorites</b><br />
<br />
<b>Warner (22-1)</b><br />
#2 Warner is the favorite to capture the school’s first ever girls basketball title. The Monarchs, an athletic bunch, upset two-time defending champions and top-ranked Summit, 48-44 in the Region 1B final. Warner, which has a 159-103 scoring edge in postseason, are led by senior Rachel Rogers (12.0 ppg, 9.0 rpg), 6-2 junior Miranda Ristau (14.0 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 2.4 spg)) and standout sophomore Ashley Rozell (14.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 4.0 apg, 3.0 spg). They also have junior Carly Rozell (5.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg). Second year coach Stewart Bohle (40-4), who guided Warner to a 20-3 campaign a year ago, has a team that has built a 1,245-to-665 scoring differential, which breaks out to 54.13-to-28.91 ppg, or a per game victory margin of 25.22. Warner has compiled 21 double digit wins, including 17 by 20 points or more. The Monarchs have held 15 opponents to 31 points or less and 18 under 40 points. Warner’s only loss was to #1 Summit, 52-41, in Warner. The Monarchs are making their third appearance in the State B, the first since 1996. They were third in 1995. They have defeated state tourney teams including Sully Buttes, Sanborn Central-Woonsocket, Aberdeen Roncalli and Clark-Willow-Lake.<br />
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<b>Other Contenders</b><br />
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<b>DeSmet (22-1)</b><br />
#3 DeSmet, which has seven straight wins since a loss to Clark-Willow Lake, has held 10 opponents under 30 points. DeSmet has a 1,279-to-736 scoring differential, or a 55.61-to-32.0 ppg margin or a 23.6 per game victory total. With a 79-26 win over Great Plains Lutheran, a 45-31 win over Estelline in the District 3B final and a 57-44 win over ORR in the Regional 3B final, DeSmet has won 17 games by double digits totals. The Bulldogs are making just their 2nd appearance at a state tournament. In 1994, they claimed third in the B Tourney. Head Coach Doug Osthus’s team is balanced and athletic. The Bulldogs are led senior forward Amanda Poppen (9.0 ppg, 7.0 rpg), junior Grayson Gruenhagen (8.5 ppg, 3.0 rpg), sophomore Rylie Osthus (8.5 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 3.0 apg) and junior Taylor Schoenfelder (6.3 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 3.0 spg). f the bench they have Kelli Aughenbaugh (5.2 ppg, 2.0 rpg) and junior Kelsey Poppen (5.0 ppg).<br />
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<b>Sanborn Central/Woonsocket (22-1)</b><br />
#4 Sanborn Central/Woonsocket, which has 13 straight wins since a Jan. 19 loss to Warner (48-35), captured Region 5B with a 53-47 win over Mitchell Christian. SC/W won District 9B, after compiling a 161-to-67 margin in wins over Wolsey-Wessington, 80-24, and James Valley Christian, 81-43. In that 13-game run, they have won by double digits 11 times and had a nine-point win. SC/W has 19 double digit victories this year and 13 by 20 points or better. All those numbers translate into a 1,493-to-904 scoring differential for SC/W. Per game SC/W has a 64.91-to-39.30 ppg edge or a 25.61 ppg victory margin. The Blackhawks are led by co-coaches Tim McCain and Rob Baruth and feature a squad full of Sellands. The team is led by standout junior forward Shelby Selland (17.0 ppg, 6.8 rpg), senior guard Rachelle Moore (10.5 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 3.7 apg, 3.3 spg), junior forward Marissa Weber (9.1 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 32 3's), junior Rachel Selland (6.0 ppg, 4.4 rpg) along with 8th grader Myah Selland (9.9 ppg, 5.1 rpg) and sophomore Morgan Selland (5.0 ppg, 2.0 rpg).<br />
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<b>Sully Buttes (20-3)</b><br />
Sully Buttes, which upset #5 Herried/Selby in the regional final, is a team worth keeping an eye on. The Chargers upended favorite Herreid/Selby which has rolled through a pair of district games. It is funny to think of Sully Buttes as a darkhorse given that they were 23-3 and reached title game a year ago, falling to Summit, 46-31. And with just three losses this year, they are a team to watch. The Chargers run to the State B started with a 56-31 win over Sunshine Bible Academy and a 58-41 win over Highmore-Harrold in the 5B championship. After falling to Herreid/Selby (52-50 in overtime) during the regular season, they broke out a close game in the fourth quarter en route to a 53-42 win in the Region 3B final. Sully Buttes has rolled up 1,479 points and allowed just 785 for a 64.30-to-34.13 scoring differential and a victory margin of 30.17. They have 19 wins by double digits totals and 14 by 20 points or better. Coach Mark Senftner’s team is led by 5-10 junior forward Karlea Stahl (11.5 ppg, 8.0 rpg, 2.5 spg), 5-7 junior guard Remi Wientjes (12.0 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 4.0 apg, 2.5 spg), and eighth grader Chloe Lamb (11.1 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 4.5 apg, 3.0 spg). Sophomore Briana Hyde (6.5 ppg, 2.5 rpg), senior Macey Chambers (3.1 ppg, 2.0 rpg), junior Kayla Nelson (5.7 ppg), Katie Stier (4.2 ppg, 2.0 rpg), freshman Deidre Lamb (5.0 ppg) and eighth grader Racquel Wientjes (6.2 ppg).make contributions. Besides being good, this unit is young and could be better next year. Sully Buttes, which won titles in 2007 and 2008, will make a ninth state appearance, including seven since 2004.<br />
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<b>Hanson (21-2)</b><br />
Hanson, which was sixth in the State B a year ago after a 21-5 season, has been impressive all season. Despite losing all-state performer Ashley Robinson (20.3 ppg, 8.6 rpg), Hanson has had a big season for coach Jim Bridge. They are led by Kendra Cheeseman (8.7 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 3.7 apg), a 5-8 senior. Junior forward Cassidy Graham (14.5 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 3.7 spg, dad Mike was all-state at Mitchell)), senior Kelli Wenande (5.7 ppg, 2.3 rpg), and junior Leah Marsh (5.5 ppg, 2.6 rpg) are among the standouts for this squad. Key reserves Hailey Doyle (5.7 ppg, 3.1 spg) and freshman Kynedi Cheeseman (12.9 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 3.4 spg) are major factors as well. Bridge, who is coaching his 33rd season, including 28 at Hanson High, has a 435-155 mark. He has guided the team to a sixth state tournament but Hanson still is looking for its first title. They were second in 1992 and third in 2007. This season, his squad has 13 wins by double digit totals, including nine by 20 points. They take a nine-game winning streak into the state B after rolling to districts wins over Ethan, 50-40, and Scotland, 43-30, in the title game. They advanced to state with a 54-37 decision against South Central. On the season, they own a 1,427-to-1,040 scoring differential, which breaks out to a 62.04-to-45.22 ppg difference and a victory margin of 16.82.<br />
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<b>Tourney Notes</b> - A couple of players to watch in the tournament includ Clark-Willow Lake's Chynna Stevens, an SDSU recruit, who averages 20.8 ppg, 10.0 rpg, 2.6 spg), and Augustana recruit Hayley McCarron of Sioux Falls Christian, who scores 20.3 ppg, with 9.7 rpg and 2.2 spg. In Class B Parker's Micalanne Hansen is a senior putting up 13.8 ppg and 4.3 rpg. Also for Parker, Tessa Weeldreyer is another senior that averages a double double with 10.0 ppg and 11.2 rpg. Kristie Mettler, a 5-2 senior from Timber Lake, leads the Panthers with 18.1 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 4.0 spg). Wall senior Autumn Schultz is putting up 13.0 ppg, 7.0 rpg and 3.0 spg.<br />
<br />
<b>Notes</b><br />
<br />
Kieran O'Malley of Centerville finished her career with 2,599 points, which ranks fifth all-time. She most recently passed JoEllen Hofer, Hitchcock, 2,564. In her final seven games, she has 214 points or 30.57 ppg per game.<br />
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Combined career totals for Summit's Logan and Presley O'Farrell, both who will attend Augustana to play hoops, include 2,173 points, 1,149 rebounds, 772 assists and 688 steals. When you add in mom Lori’s (Wohlweber) 2,490 points, the family accounted for 4,663 points at Summit High School. Logan O’Farrell finished with 1,221 points, 626 rebounds, 362 assists, and 357 steals. Presley - 952 points, 523 rebounds, 331 steals and 310 assists.<br />
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With #1 Summit’s 48-44 Region 1B loss to #2 Warner, the two-time defending champions bowed out for the first time in eight years. Summit, which has won three of the past four State B titles, was on a run of four straight title games. The loss to Warner also ended the Eagles run of seven consecutive trips to the State B. Head Coach Mark Amdahl’s squad didn’t make the state tourney in his first year but did so in the next seven, placing sixth, sixth, fourth, first, second and first each of the past two seasons. In Summit's 2013 district championship win, Amdahl won his 200th game and stands 200-25 (.889) in his career.<br />
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The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-47471185774318402592013-03-04T14:21:00.003-08:002013-03-05T04:04:07.934-08:00SD Boys BB Preview - Some Teams Already In, Others Looking to Find Spots in State Tourneys<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">With South Dakota Boys Basketball progressing past districts and into regions and the state tourneys, here is some of what I think I know (sorry Peter King). White River (21-1) is the only defending champion remaining in South Dakota boys prep circles. Both O'Gorman (AA) and St. Thomas More (Class A) have been eliminated.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Before we get into a look at various notes on teams to watch at region, it is noteworthy to mention that Derek Robey's Knights and David Hollenbeck's Cavaliers have been dominant recently. STM, which finished 20-2 this year, has won the last two A titles. Meanwhile, O'Gorman (6-16) has made AA history with its run of three straight titles and five championships in seven years. In fact, O'Gorman had reached the state AA title game in seven of the last nine seasons as 2012-13 began. </span></div>
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<o:p><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">AA -- Roosevelt Team to Beat</span></b></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In the AA ranks, it is hard for me to believe that anyone will be able to knock off <b>#1 SF Roosevelt,</b> a team that dominated AA in the regular season and then won districts with a pair of double digit margins of victory. In this section, I look at several of the teams already in the State AA and one (Huron), which has to advance through a regional game. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Lee Taylor's Rough Riders squad will be making its 10th state tournament appearance. Clearly the favorite, the Rough Riders will be the top seed when state tourney
play is held March 14-16 at the Sioux Falls Arena. The Rough Riders won the
2000 crown, 55-54, over Rapid City Central. A year ago, the Rough Riders
finished sixth. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is arguably the Rough Riders best team in history. It is
an athletic bunch, especially at guard, led by Nate Cole, leading scorer Tyler
Howard, and Jeremiah Clark. Brandon Boggs, Lucas Wilbur, Josh Kirkwold and
Chris Phillips also make substantial contributions.
Roosevelt, 21-1, rolled through Districts by defeating O'Gorman, 67-52,
as Cole had 24 points. Then, they defeated #2 Brookings, 62-38, in a District
title game called by Taylor as his team's top defensive
effort of the year. The Rough Riders allowed only seven points in each of the first three quarters against Brookings, building an insurmountable lead over the Bobcats. Howard led the way with 15 points and five assists. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Roosevelt, which has been ranked
#1 for 10 straight weeks in the KSFY/KWSN poll (Dec. 17, 2012), has scored at
least 70 points in 14-of-22 games. The Rough Riders own a 1,591-to-1,160
scoring edge, which breaks out to 72.32-to-52.73 ppg and a 19.59 per game
victory margin. Roosevelt, which has only lost to an out-of-state foe in ranked Marshall, Minn., has won by
double digits 17 times with 10 wins by at least 20 points. They have also
scored 80 or more points seven times.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Teams to Watch in AA</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">#2 <b>Brookings </b>(16-6), led by guards Tyler Nagy and Braxton Carlson, will try on Tuesday to qualify for a second straight state tournament appearance, after finishing fifth a year ago (56-47 over SF Roosevelt). Brookings, which hosts Yankton (6-14) for a tourney bid on Tuesday, was 1-1 in the Districts with a 50-45 win over Watertown and a 62-37 loss to #1 Roosevelt. The Bobcats, led by head coach Travis Engebretson (sixth season) has made 33 state tournament appearances with 13 top-3 finishes, including five state titles. They defeated Aberdeen Central, 48-47, in 1987 for their most recent title. They also had championships in 1968 (69-57, Sioux Falls Lincoln), 1962 (42-39, Sioux Falls Washington), 1952 (50-49, Huron) and 1946 (30-27, Huron). The Bobcats own a 1,137-to-1064 points differential, or 51.68-48.37 ppg edge and a 3.31 victory margin. Brookings fares well in tight games, going 8-0 in three-point decisions and 3-0 in one-point verdicts. They are 11-1 in games decided by six points or fewer. In addition, they have a pair of wins over Pierre by a combined three points. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If someone is to knock off the Rough Riders, red hot </span><b style="font-family: inherit;">Brandon Valley</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> (16-6), which has seven straight wins, may feel like they are just the team. Led by Chase Marso, Jacob Adams and Nic Peterson, the Lynx defeated SF Washington, 56-43 and SF Lincoln, 71-43 for its seventh
straight win, a district crown and a state tourney berth. The Lynx, which has nine
wins by double figures, own a 1,225-to-1,080 scoring differential, which breaks
out to 55.68-to-49.09 or a 6.59 victory margin. Directed by 12th-year coach Brent Deckert, BV, which will make its 11th tourney appearance, last won a state title in 1998 with a 63-58 decision over O'Gorman.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>#3 Pierre Riggs</b><b> (</b>17-5) defeated Aberdeen Central, 61-38, and Huron,
49-48, to win Districts. The Governors, which last won a state crown in 1982 (Rapid City Central, 56-43) and also have titles in 1979 (Rapid City Central, 68-57) and 1944 (Huron, 29-28), has lost five games by a combined 11 points this year. The Governors, directed by head coach Terry Becker, may feel that they are also a team with a great title shot. They have 15 wins in 16 games with 13 by double figure totals. Pierre has a 1,421-to-1,145 scoring differential,
which breaks out to 64.59-to-52.05 ppg or a per game victory margin of 12.54. Pierre, which will make its 38th state tourney appearance, has the dangerous duo of Lane Severyn and Zach Hansen, who are
headed to SDSU and Creighton, respectively, to play basketball. Severyn has
1,428 career points (Pierre school record), 633 rebounds (Pierre school record)
and 190 3-point field goals. He has 461 points (21.3 ppg) and 183 rebounds (8.7
rpg) this season. Hansen has 1,300 points (2nd all-time at Pierre) with
631 rebounds.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Also keep an eye on </span><b>Huron </b>(15-7), which has won 5-of-8. In districts, they defeated Mitchell, 63-53, and lost to Pierre Riggs, 49-48, and has built a 1,153-to-1,071 scoring differential, or an edge of 52.41-to-48.68 ppg and a victory margin of 3.73. Huron, directed by 26th-year head coach Tim Buddenhagen, is led by USD recruit Justin Decker, a double digit scorer, Will Carr and Adam Zwanziger. Huron, which needs to win a regional game on Tuesday against Sturgis at Huron, has 11 state titles with 2004 the most recent championship. In all, they have made 48 state tournament appearances with 22 top-three finishes. The state titles include 1917 (23-22, Aberdeen); 1927 (18-17, Aberdeen); 1930 17-13, Yankton); 1936, 22-20, SF Washington); 1937 (29-16, Mitchell); 1945 (36-29, Aberdeen); 1958 (54-45, SF Washington); 1973 (50-48, Yankton); 1981 (70-41, Yankton); 1993 (76-65. Watertown) and 2004 (75-69, SF O'Gorman).<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Class
A -- Clark/Willow Lake Looks Like A's Top Squad</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Unbeaten Clark/Willow Lake, Madison and Tea Area are among the favorites to wrap up region titles and move onto the State A at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center in Rapid City<b>. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>#1
Clark/Willow Lake</b> (20-0)<b>, </b>which won District<b> </b>3A, 60-30 over Redfield Doland, has not won a state title in its current coop although Clark made 16 state appearances and Willow Lake, one, with a combined five top-3 finishes but no state titles. A year ago, C/WL finished sixth (70-63 loss to Tri-Valley) at the State A Tournament. The Cyclones, under the leadership of coach Jerome Nesheim, own a 1,238-to-947 scoring
differential, which breaks out to 61.9-to-48.35 ppg or a 13.55 per game victory
margin. C/WL, which has won 12 games by double-digits, has completed regular
season play. Senior guard and SDSU recruit Skyler Flatten, who averages 21.7 points per game, has 1,593 points for his
career. C/WL also has double figure scorers in Torry Kolden (10.8 ppg) and Tyson Jenkins (10-6) while Mitch Prouty (8.9 ppg) also makes solid contributions. </span><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Madison </b>(20-2), led by Preston Nordling, Jesse Brown, among others, has been ranked in the top five for awhile and won District 5B. Led by 8th-year head coach Michael Ricke, the Bulldogs will meet another hot team in Dell Rapids in the region final. Madison had a 185-to-104 margin in district play, averaging 92.5 points in two wins (Flandreau Indian School, 101-42) and Elkton/Lake Benton (84-62). The Bulldogs own a 68.59-to-46.0 points differential, which breaks out to a Class A-best 22.59 points per game victory margin. Madison has seven straight wins, all by margins of 13 points or more. In addition, they have won 19 games by double figure totals with 13 by 20 points or more.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Tea Area</b> (19-3), which is led by a trio of standouts in Riley Knutson, Mitchell Nissen and Connor Shaull, advanced to the region final against Dakota Valley with a 57-38 win over Lennox. The Titans, directed by 2nd-year head coach Chris Fechner, nearly went out in the first round, needing a last-second shot to slide by Harrisburg, 45-43. Tea Area owns a 1,332-to-1,000 scoring differential, which breaks out to a 60.55-to.45.46 edge and a victory margin of 15.09. The Titans have won 12 games by double figure totals and seven by 20 points or more. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Two-ranked teams, #2 <b>Sioux Falls Christian</b> (20-1) and #3 <b>St. Thomas More</b> fell in championship games in their respective districts. SFC lost to Dell Rapids, 67-63, while STM, the two-time defending champs, lost to Spearfish, 41.36. It should be noted that both SFC and STM had two wins during the season over the team that vanquished their hopes for a state tourney bid.</span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Flying Under the Radar in Class A</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Deuel</b> (19-3), which has nine straight wins,
will try and turn things around in the region final against top-ranked
Clark/Willow Lake. Deuel, led standout guards Lincoln Swenson, and Justin Cassels, forward Brent Krause and 6-6 center Curt Boeke, lost to the Cyclones, 65-57, on Jan. 24. Deuel has defeated Hamlin, 64-47,
and Sioux Valley, 45-38, to advance to regions.
The Cardinals, directed by ninth year head coach Mike Thyen, has 11 wins by double figure point totals and has
outscored opponents, 1,351-to-1,123 or 61.41-to-51.05 per game for a victory
margin of 10.36. Deuel does not have a state title and has yet to appear at a state tourney.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Spearfish</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> (17-5), directed by head coach Erik Skoglund, pulled off a big surprise in the
districts by taking down the two-time defending champions in St. Thomas More,
41-36. That win followed a 68-42 win over Lead-Deadwood in the opening round.
Spearfish with five straight wins had lost to third-ranked St. Thomas More
twice in the regular season. Overall, Spearfish, which has 11 wins by double
digits, own a 12.41 victory margin because of a 1,342 (61.0) – to – 1,069
(48.59) scoring differential. Spearfish, which won the 2002 AA title, has made 15 state tournament appearances with the last at the 2009 State AA. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Dell
Rapids</b> (17-5), which
finished third a year ago at the 2012 A State Tourney, is a hot squad with 11 straight wins. After a 72-65
win over Aberdeen Roncalli at the Hanson Classic, the Quarriers have kept on
winning, including a 65-51 win over Garretson and a 67-63 upset of SF Christian
in the Districts. Dell Rapids, directed by head coach Jason Fersdahl, had lost twice by double digits to the Chargers
in the regular season. In terms of numbers, Dell Rapids, which owns nine
victories by double figures, has scored 1,258 points for 57.18 per game while
allowing 1,087 for 49.41 per game and a victory margin of 7.77. In their
11-game winning streak they have a 59 ppg to 50 ppg edge over opponents The Quarriers, which won the 1976 B State title, has made 12 state tourney appearances, including two in a row. They were also runner-up in 1943 and third in 1971 and 2011. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Others in the Mix -- Dakota Valley</b> (17-5) and <b>Aberdeen Roncalli </b>(16-4) are other teams to keep an eye on. Roncalli, which finished fourth a year ago, has won 8-of-9 as it moves to regions. The Cavaliers, directed by seventh-year head coach Todd Neuendorf, are led by double figure scorers in Kory Schwann and Kendal Deutsch, a solid guard tandem. Roncalli will try and go to state for the 13th time and add a second title to the A title they claimed in 1975. Dakota Valley, which was runner-up to St. Thomas More in the A final a year ago, also features a solid guard tandem in double figure scorers Brody (11.7 ppg, 4.3 apg) and Blake Van Ginkel (15.8 ppg) along with a solid inside presence in Andrew Reiff (10.1 ppg, 4.1 rpg) and Isaac Faldmo 9.0 ppg, 4.2 rpg). Dakota Valley, which averages 66 ppg, dispatched Vermillion (12-9), 60-47, to win the district. Roncalli defeated Groton Area, 60-36, to move on. The Panthers, directed by head coach Jason Kleis, are a team that likes to bang the 3 as shown by 127 3's on 357 attempts or 35.6%. Blake Van Ginkel has hit 57-of-135 for 42.2% while Brody Van Ginkel is 34-of-107 for 32%.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Zeller Has Quite a Career for EPJ</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Brock Zeller, who completed his final season for Elk-Point Jefferson (8-13) with over 1,500 career points, scored 16.9 per game for 337 points in 2012-13. He has averaged double figures four straight seasons. He scored 19.7 ppg (414 points) a year ago, 16.5 (329 points), 2010-11 and 14.3 ppg (285 points) as a freshman in 2009-10. His totals for his eighth grade season were unavailable.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Class B</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">White River One of Highest
Scoring Teams in Memory<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">White River (21-1), which was the preseason choice and #1 for all 13
regular season rankings, defeated Kadoka area in district semifinals, 118-21
and Jones County, 102-55, in the district title game and has moved onto face Oelrichs (20-1) in a Region 7B final. The winner heads to the State B Tournament in Aberdeen. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A huge favorite to repeat, White River has scored 86
points or more 13 times, 90 points 10 times with six games over 100. When they get to the regional, White River will break 2,000 points for a season as they are averaging 89.5 points per game, one of the highest totals in state B history. In total, they have a 1,969-1,057 point differential over opponents. The defending champs, who will be looking to win their fourth title in six years, have an incredible 41.46
points per game victory margin. White River has won 20-of-22 games by at least
12 points and 18 by 20 or more. They have scored 96 or more points four straight games and has 88 or
more in seven of the last 10 games with four over 109 points (109, 112, 120). White River, led by head coach Eldon Marshall, features all-state guard Wyatt Krogman, a magician on the floor, along with explosive scorers in Joe Cameron (season-high 34 points vs. JVC) and Nic Waln. White River won state titles in 1955, 2008, 2010, and 2012 and is looking for a fifth this year. They also made tournament appearances in 1949, 1956, 1993, 2006, 2007 (3rd), 2009 (2nd) and 2011 (2nd). </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Teams to Watch</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Second-ranked</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><b style="font-family: inherit;">Canistota </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">(21-1), which was #2 in the KSFY Basketball Preview, won District 7B with wins over Bridgewater-Emery, 51-38, and Parker, 62-37. The Hawks will again face Viborg-Hurley (20-2) in Region 4B final. A year ago Canistota lost to Viborg-Hurley, 38-29, in a low-scoring regional final. However, Canistota owns a 46-40 win (Jan. 29) over Viborg-Hurley this season. The Hawks, which won its only title in 1958 (Corona, 49-47, is looking to make its 5th state tourney appearance with the most recent in 2011. Pat Jolley's crew owns a 1,503-to-918 scoring differential, which breaks out to 68.32-to-41.73 or a 26.59 victory margin. Canistota, which has an 11-game winning streak and only a 62-50 loss to White River, is led by a pair of 1,000 point scorers in Cody Bunger and Alex Robertson and a 6-4 center in Jason Van Winkle, who is a rebounding machine with at least two games of 20 rebounds or more. Canistota has held 14 opponents to 42 points or less and 19 wins by double digit totals.</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">#4 James Valley Christian (20-2)</b><span style="font-family: inherit;">, which is seeking its first state title, won the rubber match and advanced to region
with a 63-58 win over #3 Wolsey-Wessington, 63-58. It was sweet revenge for James Valley Christian, who lost to Wolsey-Wessington in the District finals in 2011-12. Earlier this season JVC defeated
Wolsey-Wessington, 66-58.before the Warbirds returned the favor in the season
finale with a 62-57 win. JVC, which faces Kimball/White Lake (16-6) and standout guard Jesse Taylor in a Region 5B final, owns a 1,648-to-1,007 scoring differential, which breaks out to 74.91-to-45.77 and a 29.14 victory margin. Darwin Hofer's squad has</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> won 17-of-22 games by at least 19 points. JVC, which is looking to make its fourth state tourney appearance, is led by two-time all-state performer Adam </span>Hofer<span style="font-family: inherit;">, who has 1,736 career points. He is headed to play basketball at Dakota State. Juniors Andrew </span>Ulvestad<span style="font-family: inherit;"> (6-4) and Nathan </span>Wedel<span style="font-family: inherit;"> are also double figure scorers. Keep in mind that </span>JVC<span style="font-family: inherit;"> nearly upended White River earlier this season on a neutral floor in Fort Pierre. In a back-and-forth affair, White River took a 77-74 victory despite 25 points from </span>Hofer<span style="font-family: inherit;">.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">#5 </span><b style="font-family: inherit;">Viborg-Hurley</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> (20-2), led by 6-6 forward Andrew Hora, forward Tyler Gerdes and guards Jack Huether and Trevor Jacobsen, has made consecutive state title games in two </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">different classes. They fell to White River, 52-43, in a B final a year ago (finished 23-3) and was runner-up to St. Thomas More, 63-47, in Class A two years ago. While V-H, which is looking to make a 10th state tournament appearance, doesn't have a championshipin its current co-op, it can claim one with Hurley, which won a title in 2007 over Mitchell Christian, 44-42. Otherwise, the schools have had a combined four top-3 finishes. V-H won District 8B with a 59-35 win over Alcester-Hudson and a 43-40 decision over Centerville in the championship. Overall, Viborg-Hurley has a</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> 1,395-to-909 overall scoring edge against opponents, which breaks out to 63.41-to-41.32 ppg
or a victory margin of 22.09 ppg. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">#5 <b>Potter County</b> (21-0), which ranks sixth in power points among teams remaining alive in Class B, came into the season unheralded but have made a case as a team to watch. At 21-0, the Battlers are the only unbeaten team in the class. Potter County, which will face <b>Sully Buttes</b> (11-11) in a 3B region final in Aberdeen on Tuesday, cruised to a championship in District 6B with wins over Eureka/Bowdle, 58-39, and Herreid Selby, 60-49. The Battlers have an 1,383-to-908 (65.85-to-41.27) scoring differential for a 24.58 victory margin. Potter County is in its first year as a co-op with Gettysburg and Hoven. Neither of the schools have captured a state basketball title. Hoven made one appearance at state in 1989 while Gettysburg was second in 1950, sixth in 1970, eighth in 1975, consolation champs in 2002 with other appearances in 2004 and 2005. The Battlers are led by sophomore Chayce Hall, who is averaging 14.4 ppg (107-227, 47.1%), 4.5 rebounds and 4.2 steals per game, and junior Kole Hawkinson, who scores 12.8 ppg and is the Battlers' best 3-point artist, hitting 38-of-99 (38.4%) from deep. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sully Buttes, which ended the season with five losses in seven games, has again found postseason success with wins over Faulkton Area, 76-31, and Lower Brule, 60-55. The Chargers will be going for a ninth straight state tournament appearance against a heavily favored Battlers squad which defeated Sully Buttes, 54-48, in the season finale in Onida. Sully Buttes won the 2009 B title with </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">other state tournament appearances in 1974, 1997, 1998 (3rd), 2001 (3rd), 2002, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 (3rd), 2010, 2011 (3rd) and 2012. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>B Teams</b> </span><b style="font-family: inherit;">Flying Under the Radar</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Unranked <b>Dupree </b>(21-1), which has won 18-straight games, is a dangerous team that can score at will and has left a lot of teams in its wake. Dupree features one of the best players in Class B in Nate Widow, who has scored 1,065 career points, and rugged 6-1 forward Kash Deal, whose brother Kaden is an assistant coach on the team. Widow, who averages 26.0 ppg, 5.0 rpg and 2.2 apg., has scored over 30 points eight times this year, twice scoring 37 points. Widow, who hits 52% from the field, has made 57-of-146 shots from three-point range for 39 percent. Deal, who is a saddle bronc rider during summers, averages 13.0 ppg and 6.0 rpg and has made 54% of his field goal attempts. He has 970 career points. Led by the senior duo, Dupree rolled to a District 15B crown with a 70-37 win over McIntosh and a 70-36 decision against Timber Lake as Widow scored a combined 48 points. The Tigers now face 16B champions Faith (19-2), a team they have defeated twice, 60-41 and 51-38. Dupree</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> has scored over 90 points in 4-of-7 games. The Tigers, under the direction of head coach Jim Hood, own a 1,687-986 point differential or a margin of 76.68-to-33.82 ppg and a per game victory
margin of 42.86. Dupree, second in scoring to White River in Class B, has not lost to a SD opponent and has scored 90 points
or more eight times with 19 victories in double digits. Dupree finished seventh in the State B a year ago and is looking for a fourth tourney appearance (1982, 1984, 2012). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Faith </b>(19-2), which is looking for a sixth State B Tourney appearance, lost twice to Dupree this season. Faith, which finished second in the State B in 2006 with appearances in 2004, 2005, 2007 and 2010, had a 122-92 scoring edge in winning District 16B. They defeated Bison, 70-49, and Harding County, 52-43. The Longhorns are led by senior forward Reggie Rhoden (15.3 ppg, 7.0 rpg) and senior guard Cody Trainor (19.7 ppg, 5.3 apg, 2.3 rpg). Faith owns a 1,208-821 scoring differential, which breaks out to 57.52-to-39.09 ppg for a 18.43 victory margin. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Oelrichs</b> (20-1), directed by head coach Will Garnier, has had a school-record best season with 20 wins and they captured their first-ever district crown. Oelrichs defeated nemesis Wall, 58-47, and then upended Philip, 91-48, to win the 14B crown. The win over Philip was a little pay-back after a losing to the Scotties, 74-73, in overtime earlier this year. Oelrichs has a 1,422-to-1,096 scoring differential or a 67.71-to-52.19 edge and a victory margin of 15.62. However, Oelrichs probably has the biggest challege of any team in the regional competition with their opponent being defending champ and top-ranked White River (21-1). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>South Central</b> (20-2) is another team that is seemingly "flying under the radar" in South Dakota prep circles. This squad, which will meet Ethan (13-7) in a Region 6B matchup, rolled to a District 12B crown after wins over Tripp-Delmont/Armour, 58-32, and Dakota Christian, 60-41. South Central, which is a co-op of the schools of Bonesteel, Fairfax and Burke, has outscored opponents, 1,183-to-891 or a points per game margin of 53.77-to-40.5 (13.22 victory margin). Clearly head coach Clayton Steele's team plays tight defense as South Central has held 14 teams under 44 points and has 13 wins by double digits, including six by 20 points or more. They are 4-0 in games decided by no more than four points, including a 2-0 mark in overtime games.</span></div>
The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-22025405308816798602013-02-26T14:44:00.001-08:002013-03-04T18:45:56.589-08:00South Dakota Boys Basketball Postseason Underway - Roosevelt, Clark/Willow Lake and White River Favorites<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Postseason play
for South Dakota prep boys basketball is underway. As such, it is time for The
Genz to take a look at the matchups and offer a little hoop insight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sZ40Olv_NJ8/US08xF_RYaI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/NwlVR83vfzo/s1600/basketball-981222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sZ40Olv_NJ8/US08xF_RYaI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/NwlVR83vfzo/s320/basketball-981222.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">In all likelihood,
the three-time defending AA champions, Sioux Falls O’Gorman, who actually have
won five titles in seven years and appeared in seven of the last nine state
title games, will go home early. At 6-14, the Knights have struggled but
remember, a champion is not easily dismissed. Look for them to battle #1 Sioux
Falls Roosevelt tough as the districts open.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">I do believe
top-ranked Sioux Falls Roosevelt (19-1) is going to win its first AA crown
since 2000 when, they edged Rapid City Central, 55-54. However, #2 Brookings
(15-5) and #3 Pierre (15-5), as well as #4 Brandon Valley, and even #5 Huron
(14-6) will have something to say about who cuts down the net in March at the
Sioux Falls Arena.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">In Class A, a
number of teams have a chance to take home the title in Rapid City. Right now
unbeaten Clark/Willow Lake (19-0), which was sixth a year ago, and Sioux Falls
Christian (20-0) are the favorites, although neither school has won a state A title. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Keep an eye on two-time defending A
champions St. Thomas More (19-1), which along with Tea Area (17-3) and Madison
(18-2), are viable contenders. St. Thomas More defeated Viborg-Hurley two years ago, 63-47, for the title and bested
Dakota Valley, 63-56, in 2012. STM has A’s top defense, and while they aren’t
as explosive offensively, the Cavaliers will be a tough out. Don’t sleep on the
likes of Dakota Valley, which has shooting (Van Ginkels) and size. I believe that either
Clark/Willow Lake, led by SDSU recruit Skyler Flatten, or Sioux Falls Christian, led by Jordan Baker and Cody Van Holland, will take home the championship hardware in a
tournament that will have a number of anxious and exciting moments. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">In Class B, the state’s highest-scoring team and defending champ in White Lake is a big favorite. White River averages over 87 points per game and have a shot at scoring 2,000 points this season. They own a 38 point victory margin and have not lost to a South Dakota team this
year. I look for White River to be tested by likes of James Valley Christian (18-2),
Wolsey-Wessington (19-1), Canistota (19-1), among others. One of those others may be undefeated Potter County, which is just one of three unbeaten teams in South Dakota boys basketball (Clark/Willow Lake and Sioux Falls
Christian). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">So, here you go -</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Below, I have laid out the districts and provided notes on some of
the teams and matchups. Be assured, South Dakota's own“March
Madness” is beginning and it will keep us all entranced.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><b><u>CLASS AA</u></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 1 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#1 SF
Roosevelt (19-1) vs. SF O’Gorman (6-14)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#2
Brookings (15-5) vs. Watertown (10-10)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">First round matchup features 3-time
defending champ Sioux Falls O'Gorman traveling to face top-ranked Sioux Falls Roosevelt. Roosevelt, which has been ranked #1 for 11straight weeks (KSFY/KWSN rankings, Dec. 17, 2012), has scored at least 70 points in 14-of-20
games. The Rough Riders own a 1,462-to-1,071 scoring edge, which breaks out to
73.1-to-53.55 ppg and a 19.55 per game victory margin. Roosevelt has won by double digits 15 times
with nine wins by at least 20 points. They have also scored 80 or more points
seven times</span></i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#2 <i>Brookings, which is led by double figure
scorers in Braxton Carlson and Tyler Nagy, have a 1,050-to-957 scoring
differential, which breaks out to 52.5-to-47.85 ppg or 4.65 points per game
victory margin. Brookings is 8-0 in games decided by three points or less and
3-0 in one-point decisions. They have defeated Pierre twice by a combined three
points. Watertown, which is led by the dynamic and explosive Tanner Heiser,
ended the season on a six-game road skein. However, the Arrows shoot the ball
extremely well from the perimeter and could be a dangerous team in Districts.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 2 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#4 Brandon
Valley (14-6) vs. SF Washington (4-16)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#1 SF Lincoln
(10-10) vs. Yankton (5-13)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#4 Brandon Valley, led by double digit
scorers in Chase Marso and Jacob Adams, has eight, wins by double figures, own
a 1,073-to-1,004 scoring differential, which breaks out to 53.65-to-50.02 or a
3.63 victory margin. The Lynx closed the season with seven wins in eight games,
although their lone loss was a 55-48 loss at Sioux Falls Washington. SF Lincoln
has lost 4-of-6 but two of those setbacks were to the top two teams in Class
AA. Remember this team, led by Nermin Krdzalic, Addison Clark. Calvin Krause
and Adam Jaros, nearly upset #1 Roosevelt, falling in OT, 64-62, earlier.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 3 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#3 Pierre
Riggs (15-5) vs. Aberdeen Central (5-14)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#5 Huron (24-6)
vs. Mitchell (5-15)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Pierre
closed the season with 13 wins in 14 games, including 12 by double digit
margins. They ended the regular season with a 61-48 win on the road over
Aberdeen Central. The Governors have a 1,311-to-1,059 scoring differential,
which breaks out to 65.55-to-52.95 ppg or a per game victory margin of 12.6.
Pierre has the dangerous duo of Lane Severyn and Zach Hansen, who are headed to
SDSU and Creighton, respectively, to play basketball. Severyn has 1,393 career points
(Pierre school record), 624 rebounds (Pierre school record) and 190 3-point
field goals. He has 426 points (21.3 ppg) and
174 rebounds (8.7 rpg) this season. Zach Hansen has 1,269 points (2<sup>nd</sup>
all-time at Pierre) with 614 rebounds. His totals this season are similar to his teammate. Hansen has 407 points (20.35 ppg) and
164 rebounds (8.2 rpg). #5</span></i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">
<i>Huron, which has won 5-of-7, has built a 1,023-to-947
scoring differential, or an edge of 51.15-to-47.35 ppg and a victory margin of
3.8. They are led by big-man and USD recruit Justin Decker.</i></span><span style="font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 4 -</span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Rapid City
Central (8-11) vs. Douglas (8-12)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Rapid City
Stevens (7-13) vs. Sturgis (8-11)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";"><u>CLASS A</u><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 1 – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Aberdeen
Roncalli (14-4) vs. Groton Area (10-9), Feb. 28, </span></u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">at Roncalli<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";"><i>Roncalli, led by the dynamic Kory Schwann and guard Kendal Deutsch, should win the District and advance to the State A, where they were fourth a year ago.</i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 2 – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Sisseton
(15-6) vs. Milbank (9-12), </span></u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Feb.
28 at Milbank Armory<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 3 – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#1
Clark/Willow Lake (19-0) vs. Redfield/Doland (9-10) or Florence/Henry (3-17)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">The Cyclones own a 1,178-to-917 scoring
differential, which breaks out to 62.0-to-48.26 ppg or a 13.74 per game victory
margin. C/WL, which has won 11 games by double-digits, has completed regular
season play. Senior guard Skyler Flatten is averaging 21.3 ppg and has 1,574 points for
his career.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 4 -<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Deuel (17-3)
vs. Hamlin (8-12), Feb. 26<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Sioux Valley
(12-8) vs. Deubrook Area (11-9), Feb. 26.<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Deuel closed the season with seven
straight wins, including a 62-50 win over Sioux Valley. Deuel is led by Lincoln
Swenson who is averaging about 20 points per game. Championship game is March 1
at the higher seed home site.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 5 - <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#5 Madison
(18-2) vs. Flandreau Indian (8-11)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Flandreau
(13-8 vs. Elkton-Lake Benton (18-2)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Madison has a 1,324-to-908 point
differential, which breaks out to 66.2-to-45.4 ppg and a Class A-best 20.8 per
game victory margin. Madison has won five straight games and by margins of 13
points or more. Overall, Madison has 16 games wins by double figures totals and
11 by 20 points or more.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 6 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#2 Sioux
Falls Christian (20-0) vs. Baltic (8-12)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Dell Rapids
(15-5) vs. Garretson (10-9)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#2 Sioux Falls Christian, which features
standout center Jordan Baker, guards Cody Van Holland and Carson Long and
forward Nick Stern, owns a 1,334-to-935 scoring differential over opponents,
which breaks out to a 66.7-to-46.75 ppg edge and 19.95 points per game victory
margin. Seven times SFC has scored 75 points or better, including three over
80. They have 18 wins by double digits including eight by 20 points or better.
SFC, which has a win over a ranked Western Christian (Iowa) team, has 19 wins
over South Dakota teams with its six point win over Tea Area on Jan. 22 its
closest call. SFC is chasing its first ever State A title. They finished third
in 1997. SFC's will face a stern test in the Districts with Dell Rapids on a roll. The Quarriers, which includes all-state performers Cole Langer and Bryce
Koch, has won nine straight games, including wins over Aberdeen Roncalli (72-65),
Spearfish (55-52) and Dakota Valley (66-53). Dell Rapids finished 3<sup>rd</sup>
a year ago in the State A. They are seeking their first state title since 1972. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 7 -<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#4 Tea Area
(17-3) vs. Harrisburg (8-12)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Canton
(12-8) vs. Lennox (9-11)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Tea Area, which received 24 points five
assists and six steals from Riley Knutson, rolled to a season-closing 72-42 win
over Beresford, has a 1,229-to-919 scoring differential vs. opponents, which
amounts to a 61.45-to-45.95 edge and per game victory margin of 15.5. The
Titans, which also feature standouts Mitchell Nissen and Connnor Shaull, have
won 11 games by double figure totals and seven by 20 points or more. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 8 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Dakota
Valley (15-5) vs. Beresford (5-15)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Vermillion
(12-8) vs. Elk Point-Jefferson (13-7)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><i>In a very tough District, Dakota Valley, which features a pair of big-time shooters in brothers Brody and Blake Van Ginkel, will look to return to the State A where they finished second to St. Thomas More a year ago. Dakota Valley also features good size inside with Isaac Faldmo and Andrew Reif. Vermillion is a senior -laden group led by scorer Austin Krier while Elk Point-Jefferson is dangerous with 1,500 point scorer Brock Zeller.</i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 9 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">McCook
Lake/Montrose (15-5) vs. West Central (2-18)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Tri-Valley
(8-12) vs. Mt Vernon/Plankinton (13-7)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><i>Brandon Reif leads McCook Lake/Montrose, which also features guard Zach Bies, among others. MC/M has won four straight and 9-of-10 (only a loss to Canistota). </i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 10 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Platte-Geddes
(13-7) vs. Bon Homme (6-14)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Parkston
(11-9) vs. Wagner (10-10)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 11 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Mobridge-Pollock
(15-5) vs. Stanley County (2-18)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Cheyenne-Eagle
Butte (9-10) vs. McLaughlin (2-17)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><i>Mobridge-Pollock had a 15-game winning streak snapped by Winner, 70-55, two games ago, also lost to Cheyenne-Eagle Butte, 74-71, in the season finale. </i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 12 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Chamberlain
(15-5) receives bye<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Miller
(14-4) vs. Crow Creek (7-12)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><b>District 13 -</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">St Francis
(15-5) vs. Gregory (5-15)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Winner
(10-8) vs. Todd County (10-10)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><i>Keep an eye on St. Francis, which is can score. But Winner recently surprised Mobridge-Pollock and have a group of athletes. Todd County is another high-scoring outfit, putting up 63 points per game. They are led by Zach Cox who has 489 points this season, which is 24.5 per outing.</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 14 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Pine Ridge
(12-8) bye<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Little Wound
(8-10) vs. Bennett County (5-15)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 15 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Red Cloud
(16-4)/Hill City (4-16) winner vs. Hot Springs (10-11)</span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 16 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#3 St.
Thomas More (19-1)/Belle Fourche (3-17) winner vs. Spearfish (16-5)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">STM’s, A’s top defensive unit by
allowing just 34.35 points per game, has a 1,074-to-687 scoring differential,
which breaks out to a 53.7-to-34.35 ppg or a 19.35 per game victory margin.
STM, the defending champions, has held 19-of-20 opponents to 44 points or
fewer. The Cavaliers have 13 double digit wins and 11 by 20 points or better.
They are 3-0 in games decided by three points or less. STM’s only loss was a
41-36 setback to #1 Clark/Willow Lake. </span></i><u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">CLASS B<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 1 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Rosholt
(12-8) vs. Waverly-South Shore (5-14)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Summit
(10-11) vs. Wilmot (10-10)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><i>Kevin Jackson's Rosholt team will look to reach another regional with standout guard Chase Shypkowski.</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 2 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Langford
Area (16-4) vs. Hitchcock-Tulare (13-7)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Warner
(12-8) vs. Leola/Frederick (12-8)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">All four teams in this District have
winning records. Led by 6-3 guard Bo Fries 6-3 forward Drew Planteen, 6-3 center Brady Hoines and 6-2 forward Michael Erickson, Langford Area is poised to return to the State B after finishing third a year ago in a 22-3 season. Warner, featuring Jerrod and Derrek Tuszka, and standout point guard Clay Rozell, will push Langford Arrea. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 3 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Castlewood
(10-6) vs. Great Plains Lutheran (10-10)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Arlington
(14-4) vs. DeSMet (8-13)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 4 –<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Howard
(6-14) vs. Oldham-Ramona/Rutland (10-10) <o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Chester Area
(6-14) vs. Colman-Egan (6-14)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">ORR is the only team in the District
with at least a .500 mark and they were able to get to that figure with a
Districts win. Howard is the top seed.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 5 – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Sully Buttes
(9-11) vs. Faulkton Area (5-15)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Lower Brule
(5-15) vs. Sunshine Bible Academy (7-11)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 5 does not have a team with a
winning record.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 6 – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#5 Potter
County (19-0) vs. Eureka/Bowdle (10-10)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Herreid/Selby
(11-7) vs. Ipswich (8-11)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Potter County has a 1,265 (67.27)-to-820
(42.88) scoring differential or per game victory margin of 24.39. The Battlers,
which have scored 63 points or more in 11-of-12 games, has won 14 games by
double digits and nine by 20 points or more. Potter County looks like a big favorite in District 6 but in Region 3B as well. The Battlers could go to the State A unbeaten.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 7 <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#2 Canistota
(19-1) vs. Bridgewater-Emery/Ethan (7-13)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Freeman
(12-8) vs. Parker (11-10)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Canistota, which has only a loss to
top-ranked White River at the Hanson Classic, owns a 1,390-to-843 scoring
advantage, which breaks out to 69.5-to-42.15 ppg and a 27.35 per game victory
margin. Canistota, which has held 12 opponents to no more than 42 points, has
recorded 17 victories by double digits margins. The Hawks, a big favorite in District 7, feature a pair of 1,000 point scorers in Alex Robertson and Cody Bunger. They also feature size in Jason Van Winkle, who has had a couple of 20 rebound games this season.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 8<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#5
Viborg-Hurley (18-2) vs. Alcester-Hudson (5-15)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Centerville
(15-4) vs. Irene-Wakonda (10-9)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Viborg-Hurley closed the regular season
with a 1,293-to-834 overall scoring edge against opponents, which breaks out to
64.65-to-41.7 ppg or a victory margin of 22.95 ppg. Viborg-Hurley features double digit scorers in Trevor Jacobsen and Andrew Hora, who has had several double doubles this season. Centerville, led by junior Seamus O'Malley and seni Remember Viborg-Hurley has appeared in two straight title games, albeit, two different classes. They lost to White River, 52-43, a year ago in Class B and to St. Thomas More, two years, ago, 63-47, in a Class A finale.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 9<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#4 James
Valley Christian (18-2) vs. Wessington Spring (5-16)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#3
Wolsey-Wessington (19-1) vs. Sanborn Central/Woonsocket (14-6).<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">In all fairness, this District may be
the most competition, regardless of class. The district includes a pair of
top-five ranked squads. #3 Wolsey-Wessington, led by Lorenzo Williams’ 25
points, closed the regular season with its biggest win of the season, a 62-57
home win over previously #2 and now #4 JVC, which was led by Adam Hofer’s 20
points. Wolsey-Wessington, which has 10 straight games, including nine by
double digits, has outscored opponents, 1,488-to-833, which breaks out to a
74.4-to-41.65 ppg edge or 32.75 per game victory margin. JVC, which also has a
loss to #1 White River (77-74), owns a 1,493-to-914 scoring differential, which
breaks out to a 74.65-to-45.7 ppg scoring edge, or 28.95 per game victory margin. JVC has won 16-of-20 games by a margin of at
least 19 points. Hofer, who is averaging about 23 points per game, now has
1,721 career points. JVC also features standout Nathan Wudel. Wolsey-Wessington has a dynamic shooter in Ryan Sprecher and another solid player in two-sport star (football) Hayden Hooks. Wolsey-Wessington which has a tough opening round opponent
in Sanborn Central/Woonsocket and JVC split two matchups this season.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 10 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Corsica-Stickney
(13-7) - bye<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Kimball/White
Lake (14-6) vs. Mitchell Christian (4-16)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District final will be held March 2 in
Mitchell. Adam Borman of Corsica-Stickney, a 5-11 pass-first guard, and 6-2 senior guard Jesse Taylor of Kimball/White Lake led their respective teams in quarterback in football. They are again the leaders of the two-top seeded teams in this district. Watch out for Taylor to do some big things as he can hit from deep and has the ability to penerate.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";"> </span></i><b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 11 -</span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Ethan (11-7)
vs. Menno (9-12)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Hanson
(14-6) vs. Avon (6-14)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Finals will be played at the Corn Palace
in Mitchell on March 2. Hanson features standout shooter Jordan Marquardt who had a 32 point game against Centerville at the Hanson Classic.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 12 -- <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">South
Central (18-2) vs. Tripp-Delmont/Armour (8-12)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Dakota
Christian (10-10 vs. Colome (9-12)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><i>South Central looks like the big favorite in District 12 with 18 wins in 20 games. However, they only defated Dakota Christian, 53-51, in a home game. It could be another tussle.</i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 13 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">#1 White
River (19-1) vs. Kadoka Area (2-17)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Jones County
(13-7) vs. Lyman (8-12)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">White River, which was the preseason
choice and #1 for all 13 regular season rankings, has scored 86 points or more
11 times, 90 points eight times with four games over 100. White River has a
1,746-980 point edge over opponents, which break out to an all-class-best 87.3
ppg on offense. They allow just 49.0 on defense for 38.3 points per game
victory margin. White River has won 18-of-20 games by at least 12 points and 16
by 20 or more. White River is led by the magical Wyatt Krogman, already a two-tie all-state performer headed to Black Hills State. They also feature explosive shooters in Nic Waln and Joe Cameron, who had six 3's and 34 points vs. James Valley Christian.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 14 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Oelrichs
(18-1) vs. Wall (12-8)/Edgemont (3-17) winner<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">New
Underwood (14-6) vs. Philip (13-7)/Rapid City Christian (4-11) winner<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><i>Oelrichs is looking to make its first-ever region appearance if they can get through this District. Wall has been their nemesis. </i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 15 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Dupree
(19-1) vs. McIntosh (4-16)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Timber Lake
(8-12) vs. Wakpala (9-10)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Unranked Dupree (19-1), which has won
16-straight games, has scored over 90 points in 4-of-5 games. The Tigers own a
1,547-913 point differential or a margin of 77.35-to-45.65 ppg and a per game
victory margin of 31.7. Dupree has not lost to a SD opponent and has scored 90
points or more eight times with 17 victories in double digits. Dupree is led by
the explosive 6-1 senior guard Nate Widow. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">District 16 - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Faith (17-2)
vs. Lemmon (7-10)/Bison (7-11) winner<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Harding
County (17-3) vs. Newell (10-9)/Takini (6-14) winner<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;"><i>Cody Trainer and his Faith teammates will face a tough go with Harding County, which averages 65.0 points per game behind the exploits of Ckyler Floyd, who averages 21.3 points and 5.7 rebounds, and Jess Feist, who averages 13.6 points and 5.5 assists and has a team-high 40 3-point field goals (35%). Faith has two wins over Harding County, 46-45, and 50-45. It should be a battle again. Faith has won four straight games and their only two losses were to Dupree, 60-41 and 51-38.</i></span></div>
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The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-78623562070206370582013-02-25T16:56:00.001-08:002013-02-28T04:27:45.984-08:00South Dakotans Get it Done for South Dakota in T&F<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Who says you can't get it done in DI with South Dakota talent?</span><br />
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<span data-ft="{"type":3}" style="font-weight: normal;">The USD men's track and field team, which has 23 South Dakotans on its roster, won the 2013 Summit League Track and Field Championship at the DakotaDome. It was the first Summit League title by any Coyotes program, a monstrous feat for a program in its second year in the league. The Coyote men's team finished with 190 points, well ahead of second place North Dakota State's 176.50. Overall, South Dakota had seven individual champions and one winning relay squad. Overall, USD's men placed first or second in 13 of 17 events. In addition, USD trailed for much of the meet but then took over with a run in the final five events of the meet.</span></h5>
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<span data-ft="{"type":3}" style="font-weight: normal;">The South Dakotans on the USD roster cut a swath across the state, big and small schools alike, and were the core of this latest Coyote championship team.</span></h5>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Coach Dave Gottsleben, a native of Brookings, was named the Summit League Men's Coach of the Year. "If you read what's on our shirt, It says South Dakota and that is who we are," Gottsleben told Mick Garry of the Argus Leader. </span></h5>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Leading in this exhibition of South Dakota pride was Eureka junior Jeff Mettler, who was named the Men's MVP at the Championships. All Mettler did was set a school and Summit League record in the 3K (8"18.69), win the mile run (4"11.18) and finish third in the 5K (14:40.28). Freshman Christian Nielsen of Madison was named the Newcomer of the Championships after winning the 400M (50.28), finishing 6th in the 200 and anchoring the winning 4x400M relay. Sophomore Erik Hill of Tea was second in the 60H (8.16) and 200 meters (22.03) and ran on the 4x400M relay, which also included two other South Dakotans, Lukas Bernard of Watertown and Jeff O'Connell of Phillip. O'Connell also won the long jump(24-3.75) . In addition USD men placed 1-2 in the shot put with sophomore Kyle McKelvey of Beresford defending his title with a throw of 58-8.75 feet and Cody Snyder of Lake Andes placing second. </span></span></h5>
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Also, the Coyote women's team, which finished third (114 points) in the Summit League Championships, includes 25 South Dakotans on the roster. Two special performances of note for the women, including Bethany Buell (St. Louis, Mo.) won the pole vault with a record 14-5.5 feet and Megan Glisar (Sergeant Bluff, Iowa) captured the high jump in 5-11 1/4.</span></h5>
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">South Dakota Pride unveiled in the DakotaDome. Indeed.</span></h5>
The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-46755844219318769822013-02-22T11:20:00.002-08:002013-03-07T03:34:16.513-08:00SDSU's Nate Wolters Part of Rare 2K Scoring Club Plus More Obscure BB Statistical Clubs<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Nate Wolters of South Dakota State University became a member of the South Dakota collegiate men's basketball 2,000-point club when he went over 2K earlier this year. He now has 2,270 with games to play. He is just one 16 collegiate players in South Dakota to have reached the 2,000-point level. One other player, Cameron McCaffrey of Augustana, who set the Augustana school record with 1,902 points and also has games to play, needs 124 to reach the elite club.</span><br />
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W30R5ljxHas/USfGfh6d5sI/AAAAAAAAAJA/WMX-zX9vStQ/s1600/SDSUWoltersactionvsBaylor_0057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W30R5ljxHas/USfGfh6d5sI/AAAAAAAAAJA/WMX-zX9vStQ/s320/SDSUWoltersactionvsBaylor_0057.jpg" width="213" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Nate Wolters of SDSU</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Wolters, who is a Naismith, Cousy, and Wooden Award finalist, guided the Jacks to the NCAA Tournament
a year ago and has led the Jacks to first place in the Summit League with one
game to play before the March 9-12 Summit League Tourney in Sioux Falls.
Wolters, also up for the Lou Henson Award as the Mid-Majors' top player, increased his point total to 2,288 when he had 18 vs. Nebraska-Omaha in a Summit League regular season finale. He also owns the school's all-time assist mark with 641. Apparently, Wolters is the only collegian in
South Dakota basketball history with school records in both points and assists. In
fact, there are just eight South Dakota collegians with 500 assists and 1000 points.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The state's career leader in assists is Josh Mueller, the former West Central standout, who had 801 along with 1,991 points at South Dakota from 2001-05.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">South Dakota's all-time collegiate scoring leader is Alan Miller of Dakota Wesleyan, who had 2,920 points from 1981-85.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This blog also provides a list of the rare 1,000-1,000 club for
points/rebounds (11 total) and the even more obscure 2,000-1,000 club for points/rebounds, which includes just two members. Those two players include Gary Evjen of Northern State University, who totaled 2,228 points and 1,206 rebounds while Greg Hansen of Dakota Wesleyan from 1970-74 had 2,146 points amd 1,047 rebounds.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Here is a list of the
all-time collegiate scorers and the other lists. These lists are based on available information. Several of the in-state sports information offices provided valuable assistance as did an old friend, Tom Frederick.</span></div>
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<strong style="line-height: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif;">All-time Leading SD Collegiate Scorers (minimum 2000 points)</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">1. Alan Miller, Dakota Wesleyan, 1981-85, 2,920<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">2. Scott Morgan, Dakota Wesleyan, 1989-93, 2,810<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">3. Eric Kline, Northern State University, 1992-95,
2,660 points<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">4. Brett Schwartz, Dakota State, 1987-91, 2,581 points<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">5. Doug Schlepp, SD Tech, 1970-74, 2,440 points<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">6. Scott Bosanko, Northern State University, 1978-81,
2,424 points<o:p></o:p></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">7. Justin Bonnichsen, Mount Marty, 2,380 points</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">8. Jim Benjamin, SD Tech, 1982-86, 2,348 points</span></strong></div>
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<strong style="line-height: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">9. Nate Wolters, South Dakota State, 2009-13, 2,288 points</span></strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">10. Tim Hatchett, University of South Dakota, 1986-90,
2,280 points<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong style="line-height: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">11. Gary Evjen, Northern State University, 1969-72,
2,228 points</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">12. Kim Templeton, Black Hills State, 1972-76, 2,180
points<o:p></o:p></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">13. Gayle Hoover, University of Sioux Falls, 1954-58, 2,169 points</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">14. Brady Wiebe, Dakota Wesleyan University, 2007-11,
2,052 points<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">15. Ron Krayl, University of Sioux Falls, 1964-68, 2,029 points</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">16. Cain Atkinson, Black Hills State, 2007-11, 2,020
points</span></strong><strong><u><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></strong><br />
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<b style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; line-height: 13.5pt;">Assists/Points</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif;">1. Josh Mueller, South Dakota, 2001-05, 801 assists/1991 points</span><br />
<span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif;">2. Pat Freidel, Augustana, 1985-89, 674 assists/1,065 points</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif;">3. Mitch Slusarski, SD Tech, 1990-94, 657 assists/1,463 points</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif;">4. Nate Wolters, SDSU, 2009-13, 641 assists/2,270 points</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif;">5. Rick Nissen, South Dakota, 1972-76, 598 assists/1,452 points</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif;">6. Barry Glanzer, South Dakota, 1978-82, 566 assists/1,180 points</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif;">7. Scott Namanny, Dakota State, 1997-2001, 514 assists/1,418 points</span><br />
<span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif;">8. Steve Krier, Augustana (1976-80), 506 assists/1,178 points</span><br />
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<strong style="line-height: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif;">2000 Points – 1,000 Rebounds</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">1. Gary Evjen, Northern State University, 1969-72, 2,228 points/1,206 rebounds<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">2. Greg Hansen, Dakota Wesleyan University, 1970-74, 2,146 points/1,047 rebounds<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif;">1,000 points – 1,000 rebounds<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">1. Gary Evjen, Northern State University, 1969-72, 2,228 points/1,206 rebounds<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">2. Greg Hansen, Dakota Wesleyan University, 1970-74, 2,146 points/1,047 rebounds<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">3. Mark Tetzlaff, South Dak</span><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">ota State, 1982-85, 1931 points/1,132 rebounds<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">4. DuWayne Groos, Northern State University, 1963-66, 1,896 points/1,135 rebounds<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">5. Dave Jackson, SD Tech, 1966-70, 1,887 points/1,198 rebounds<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">6. Chris Miller, Dakota Wesleyan University, 1971-75, 1,863 points/1,363 rebounds<o:p></o:p></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">7. Greg Nagel, Augustana, 1974-78, 1,764 points/1,103 rebounds</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">8. Bill Gross, Augustana, 1969-73, 1,628 points/1,030 rebounds</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">7. Chuck Iverson, University of South Dakota, 1969-73, 1,536 points/1,241 rebounds<o:p></o:p></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">8. Tim Dykstra, University of Sioux Falls, 1971-75, 1,524 points/1,018 rebounds</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">9. Tyler Cain, University of South Dakota, 2006-10, 1,390 points/1087 rebounds<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">10. Jeff Wepking, Northern State University, 1973-76, 1,261 points/1,076 rebounds</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: UbuntuRegular, serif; font-weight: normal;">11. Roger Heibult, University of Sioux Falls, 1964-68, 1,260 points/1,008 rebounds</span></strong><br />
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<b> </b></div>
The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-72745206241374319162013-02-12T17:46:00.000-08:002013-02-13T06:05:16.104-08:00Breaking Down South Dakota Boys Basketball<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Numbers don't lie. Or do they?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For as long as I have been messing around in sports, I have had an appreciation for numbers. As</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I looked at the South Dakota prep boys basketball scene and explored various numbers from records to victory margins, I wondered, do numbers tell us something? Do they lead us down a path where we can figure what team will win a title? I think so.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As such, numbers helped me break down the favorites and contenders in the respective classes in South Dakota boys hoops for 2012-13<i> (</i></span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>For all the girls' supporters, I will also be breaking down the girls' classes in SD in a blog later this week -stay tuned).</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here is a breakdown on the three South Dakota boys </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">classes.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Boys AA </span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Favorites -- </b>SF Roosevelt, Pierre</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>In the Hunt -- </b>Brookings, Watertown, Huron, Brandon Valley</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lane Severyn of Pierre Riggs</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sioux Falls Roosevelt, which won its only AA title in 2000, has rolled to a 15-1 record and appear to be the favorite to win the tournament. Coach Lee Taylor's squad, which only has a loss to Minnesota 2A #4 Marshall, 67-51 on the road, has defeated 15 straight South Dakota foes. They were forced into overtime on the road at SF Lincoln (winning, 64-62) but has built an impressive resume. The up-tempo Roosevelt squad has AA's most explosive offense at 73.18 points per game and allow just 53.73 per outing for the AA-best 18.62 victory margin. They have broken the 70-point mark 12 times in 16 games. Preseason #1 Pierre Riggs (12-5), which has five losses this year by a total of 11 points, will also be a difficult team to deal with in the postseason. The Governors, which average 65.76 ppg, is a team to watch with its </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">dynamic duo in SDSU recruit Lane Severyn (all-time scoring leader at Pierre with 1,343 career points; 2nd all-time at Pierre with 596 rebounds) and Creighton recruit Zach Hansen (1,198 career points, 2nd all-time at Pierre and 588 rebounds, 3rd all-time). Second-ranked </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Brookings (13-4) handed Pierre Riggs a 66-65 loss last week and feature quality players in double figure scorers Braxton Carlson and Tyler Nagy. Watertown (10-6), led by the dynamic guard Tanner Heiser, can bomb away from the perimeter and are a team to keep an eye on. Also pay attention to Brandon Valley (11-6), a team with a bunch of scoring standouts led by Chase Marso and Jacob Adams. Huron (12-6), the top defensive team in AA, could surprise and dangerous SF Lincoln, which pushed Roosevelt to overtime earlier, averages 63.65 points per game and could cause problems in the postseason if they can develop consistency. While Roosevelt has dominated this season, Class AA seems to have several talented teams that all could contend for the title. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Points - Offense</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. SF Roosevelt
(15-1), 1,171 points, 73.18 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Pierre Riggs
(12-5), 1,118 points, 65.76 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. SF Lincoln
(9-8), 1,082 points, 63.65 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Watertown
(10-6), 998 points, 62.37 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Brandon Valley
(11-6), 913 points, 53.70 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Scoring Defense<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Huron (12-6),
843 points, 46.83 ppg</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Brookings (13</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-4), 803 points, 47.23 ppg</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Brandon Valley
(11-6), 874 points, 51.41 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Pierre Riggs
(12-5), 910 points, 53.53<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Roosevelt
(15-1), 873 points, 54.56 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Victory Margin</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Roosevelt
(15-1), 18.62 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Pierre (12-5),
12.23 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Lincoln (9-8),
6.47 ppg</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Watertown (10-6), 6.37 ppg</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Brookings
(12-4), 4.71 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Boys A <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Favorites -- </b>Clark/Willow Lake, Sioux Falls Christian</span><br />
<b style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the Hunt -- </b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">St. Thomas More, Dakota Valley, Tea Area, Madison</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Skyler Flatten of Clark/Willow Lake</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In some circles, like Class A, numbers don't always leave a picture of what teams are the best. In this class, #1 Clark/Willow Lake (18-0) is not ranked in the top five in any of the scoring, defensive scoring or victory margin statistical categories. However, Clark/Willow Lake owns a 62.06-to-48.19 ppg differential. and a 13.87 victory margin. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Clark/Willow Lake has defeated AA SF Washington (53-49) and defeated #3 St. Thomas More (41-36). T</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">he Cyclones feature Skyler Flatten, an SDSU recruit, who has 1,537 career points and is averaging 21.7 ppg this year.</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Cyclones</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> will be pushed by #2 SF Christian, which has a 65.81-to-47.25 ppg differential, and a 18.56 victory margin. SF Christian has beaten several ranked A opponents and its recent 62-45 win at #5 Madison (15-2) shows the strength of this team. SFC is led by dynamic guards Cody Van Holland and Carson Long as well as Nick Stern and 6-6 forward Jordan Baker, a walking double double. Both C/WL and SFC are seeking their first state A title. As for the rest of the class, #3 St. Thomas More (18-1) is one of several squads that could make a run for a state title. STM, the defending champion, is the state's top defensive club at 34.21 ppg. STM's only loss is to Clark/WIllow Lake (41-36, Flatten did not play). Tea Area (14-3) has a roster-full of athletes, including Mitchell Nissen, among others. Dakota Valley, led by the Van Ginkel brothers, advanced to the state title game a year ago and will give Tea Area a battle for the region title. If Madison gets by 17-2 Elkton-Lake Benton in the districts, the Bulldogs will be a team to watch with its 66.11 points per game average and 20.47 victory margin. Class A was a shootout a year ago and should be again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. St. Francis Indian School (13-4), 1,176 points, 69.18 ppg<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Red Cloud
(13-4), 1,157 points, 68.05 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Madison (15-2), 1,124 points, 66.11 ppg</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Todd County
(9-8), 1,120 points, 65.88 ppg</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Sioux Falls Christian (17-0), 1,115, 65.58 ppg</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. St. Thomas More (18-1), 650, 34.21</span><br />
2<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. Aberdeen Roncalli (13-3), 744, 46.5</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Sisseton (10-6), 750, 46.87</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Elkton-Lake Benton (17-2), 903, 47.52</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Miller (11-3), 675, 48.21</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Victory Margin</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Madison (15-2), 20.47 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Elkton-Lake
Benton (17-2), 19.32 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. St. Thomas More (18-1), 18.63 ppg</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Sioux Falls Christian (17-0), 17.64</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Chamberlain
(12-5), 15.60 ppg</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Boys B<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Favorites -- </b>White River, James Valley Christian</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>In the Hunt -- </b>Canistota, Viborg-Hurley, Potter County, Dupree, Wolsey-Wessington</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The defending B champion White River continues to roll along at 14-1 and is a big favorite to repeat. White River, which has rolled up 88.0 points per game and recorded 12 wins of 20 points or more, will be a difficult team to defend. They are led by standouts Wyatt Krogman, Nic Waln (devastating 3-point artist), Matt Gillen and others. White River has gone over 100 points on four occasions. Unbeaten James Valley Christian has rolled to 17 straight wins. JVC is, led by its own dynamic duo in Nathan Wudel and all-state guard Adam Hofer. A year ago, they lost in the districts but this team, which averages 75.23 points per game, looks to be one of the teams that can challenge White River. JVC has won 15-of-17 games by 10 points or more. #3 Canistota (16-1), which has a 28.0 victory margin differential, has only lost to top-ranked White River as 1,000 point scorers Cody Bunger and Alex Robertson have been difficult to contain as has 6-4 center Jason Van Winkle. A team that bears watching is Wolsey-Wessington (15-1), which has only a loss to JVC by eights points. Wolsey-Wessington, which ends the regular season with a second match-up with JVC, owns a 34.82 victory margin and score at a 75.25 points per game clip. JVC and Wolsey-Wessington will battle in the districts with the winner likely headed to state. Viborg-Hurley (14-2), which will be pushed by 14-3 Centerville in the districts, is also explosive. Potter County (15-0) is unbeaten and tough defensively and Dupree (16-1) is scoring 75.88 ppg (2nd-best in B) and whipping teams by 30.47 points per game. All of these talented teams leads one to believe Class B will be a difficult field to navigate, even for the defending champions in White River.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Scoring</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. White River
(14-1), 1,320, 88.0 ppg</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p>2. Dupree (16-1), 1,290, 75.88 ppg</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3.
Wolsey-Wessington (15-1), 1,204, 75.25 ppg</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. James Valley
Christian (17-0), 1,279, 75.23 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Oelrichs (16-1), 1,231, 72.41 ppg</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Scoring Defense</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. New Underwood (13-4), 661, 38.88</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Faith (14-2), 626, 39.125</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3.
Wolsey-Wessington (15-1), 647, 40.43 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. South Central (16-1), 689, 40.52</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Canistota
(16-1), 691, 40.65 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Victory Margin</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. White River
(14-1), 41.13 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2.
Wolsey-Wessington (15-1), 34.82 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. James Valley Christian (17-0), 32.23<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Dupree (16-1),
30.47 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Canistota
(16-1), 28.0 ppg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-1455511922417519162013-01-29T12:44:00.003-08:002013-01-31T08:19:42.171-08:00State-U Gathers Again to Battle in Hoops - Women on Wednesday; Men on Thursday<br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">State-U Week has
arrived again with the Jackrabbit and Coyote women's basketball teams to face off at the DakotaDome at 7 p.m. on
Wednesday (Jan. 29) while the men's hoops teams gather in Frost Arena on Thursday
(Jan. 30). This blog includes previews on both games, beginning with the women's teams.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>South Dakota
State to Meet South Dakota Women in Basketball Battle for 1st at DakotaDome<o:p></o:p></u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For the second
time this year, The University of South Dakota women’s team will battle the
South Dakota State University women’s squad with first place at stake in a key Summit League basketball contest. The tip-off is set for 7 p.m. at the DakotaDome. SDSU (15-6, 7-1 TSL), which is ranked 18th in the most recent Collegeinsider.com Mid Major Top-25 poll, won the first encounter,
62-50, at Frost Arena on Jan. 6 and have since maintained control of the Summit League race. South
Dakota (11-10, 6-2 TSL) has won four straight games and now stand second in the
Summit League while SDSU is 7-1 in the league. A Coyote win would forge a first
place tie in the Summit League. This game (as will the men's game on Thursday) is part of the South
Dakota Showdown Series, presented by South Dakota Corn.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">State-U Women's All-time Series</b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> – When USD
and SDSU face off in the DakotaDome Wednesday, it will be the 72nd game between
the two rivals, which began playing each other in 1966-67. SDSU won that first game,
35-26, and the first 14 games in the series, until USD’s 59-47 victory in the
1977-78 season. That USD victory was the first of seven straight Coyotes wins. Overall, the Jackrabbits
hold a 49-22 series advantage, winning 30-of-the-last-33 contests. The Coyotes won
19-of-24 games from 1977-78 to 1990-91. After that season, SDSU went on a
streak of 21 straight games over USD. A year ago, the two teams split, each
winning close games on their home floor. SDSU won the first encounter between
the rivals in 2012-13, 72-60, at Frost Arena.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Last Time (Jan.
6, 2013) – SDSU 72, South Dakota 60 - </b></span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The South Dakota
State women's basketball team, led by senior Ashley Eide’s 22 points, took a
72-60 decision over South Dakota at Frost Arena on Sunday, Jan. 6. In the
match up, SDSU opened up a 10-2 lead at the 16:43 mark and cruised to a 36-25
halftime lead. USD’s Tempestt Wilson scored 11-of-19 points in the first half
to keep the game within range for the Yotes. USD finally trimmed the deficit to
41-33 three minutes into the second half, but the Jacks responded with a 7-0
run for a game-high 15-point lead. USD drew within eight on three other
occasions in the final seven minutes but couldn’t cut the deficit further.
Megan Waytashek had 15 points for SDSU while USD had 15 from Nicole Seekamp and
14 from Polly Harrington. A key to the game was SDSU’s foul shooting as the
Jacks made 20-of-25 for 80%. The Jacks were 24-of-50 from the field, although
just 4-of-18 on three point shots. The Coyotes hit 23-of-53 from the field for
43.4 percent, but were just 1-of-9 from three-point range. USD hit 13-of-18
free throws for 72.2%. Led by Wilson’s seven rebounds, USD had a 31-29
advantage on the boards.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Up-close – Jacks
– </b>SDSU, which is looking to advance to the NCAA DI Tournament for a fifth straight time, is 8-3 at home, 6-2 on the road and 1-1 in neutral site games. Since a
60-50 loss to Penn State, SDSU has won 9-of-10 games with the only blemish a
57-56 home setback to IUPUI. In its eight-plus seasons at DI, SDSU has a 179-72
mark vs. DI opponents, defeating 57 teams from 21 leagues.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Gb1qTzvrkk/UQgss8FJviI/AAAAAAAAAH4/xlyGcZiWVVg/s1600/YAPLYMLMAZBJENU_20121121033012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Gb1qTzvrkk/UQgss8FJviI/AAAAAAAAAH4/xlyGcZiWVVg/s320/YAPLYMLMAZBJENU_20121121033012.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SDSU's Hannah Strop (courtesy of SDSU)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Jacks are led
by senior forward Ashley Eide, who ranks fourth in the league in points at 14.2
per game and also grabs 3.9 rebounds each outing. Eide, who has 932 career
points, is fifth in the Summit League in 3-point field goal percentage at 39.6
percent (40-of-101). Also reaching double digits for SDSU is sophomore Megan
Waytashek at 13.7 per game (6th, TSL). She is third in three-point field goal
percentage at 42.4% (39-of-91). Waytashek, who also averages 4.3 rebounds per
game, ranks first in 3-point percentage in league games at 57.1 percent, making
20-of-35. She is also averaging 15.4 points per game in league play. Senior
Katie Lingle is averaging 8.0 ppg and 4.6 rpg and leads SDSU in field goal
percentage at 49.2% (58-of-118). Senior Leah Dietel is scoring 6.1 ppg and
pulling down 5.5 rebounds a game. Sophomore Gabbie Boever scores 5.5 ppg and
3.19 assists per outing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As for the team
numbers, the Jacks have scored a league-high 1,373 points, which breaks out to
a league-high 65.4 points per game. The Jacks have a 634-to-578 points
advantage in the first half and 716-to-661 in the second stanza with a 23-17
points differential in overtime. SDSU leads the league in six categories and is
second in three others. They are hitting 41.3% from the field (2nd, TSL) on
471-of-1,141 shooting, and making 70.2% from the foul line (5th) on 290
conversions in 413 attempts. SDSU has made 141-of-421 three-point shots for 33.5%,
which ranks third in the league. The Jacks hit 6.7 three’s per game (3rd, TSL)
and make a league-best 13.8 free throws (1st, TSL) on a league-best 19.7
attempts. They rank fourth in rebounding at 37.6 per game. SDSU is eighth in
the Summit with 18.3 turnovers per game but rank second in steals (9.2). Opponents are making just 39% from the field (450-of-1,154), including
31.2% (110-of-353) from the 3-point arch. SDSU opponents hit 70.5 percent from
the foul stripe on 246-of-349 shooting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Dialing In With
the Coyotes</b> – South Dakota, which is 6-2 at home, 4-8 on the road and 1-0 on
neutral floors, is riding a season-best four-game winning streak.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qAOVCD0Eb6s/UQgs9_aG69I/AAAAAAAAAIA/fs_t_AgqX5w/s1600/seekamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qAOVCD0Eb6s/UQgs9_aG69I/AAAAAAAAAIA/fs_t_AgqX5w/s1600/seekamp.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USD's Nicole Seekamp <br />
(courtesy of USD)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">South Dakota is
led by sophomore Nicole Seekamp, who is third in the Summit League at 14.6
points per game. She also averages 4.0 rebounds per game, has 59 assists and is hitting
78.1% from the foul stripe (57-of-73) while scoring a team-high 307 points. One
of the Coyotes on fire lately is senior guard Tempestt Wilson, who has
increased her point per game average to 12.0 ppg, 12th in the league. Wilson
has scored 43 points (14.33 ppg) in three games with SDSU, scoring 19 points in
two of the games. Wilson has scored in double digits 11 straight games and has 14 for the season and 35 in her career. She is also averaging 3.8
rebounds per game. On the season, Wilson has hit 20-of-71 shots from 3-point
range for 28.2 percent and 49-of-63 from the charity stripe for 77.8%. Wilson
has 791 career points and with nine can reach 800 for her career. Junior Polly
Harrington averages 12.0 ppg (12th, TSL) and 5.5 rpg (10th, TSL). She ranks
first in the league in field goal percentage at 51.1% on 93-of-182 shooting.
She is also 9-of-18 from three-point range. Also for USD, freshman Margaret
McCloud is averaging 6.8 points per game and a team-high 7.2 rebounds, which
ranks fourth in the league. Forward Lisa Loeffler is scoring 4.9 points per
game and averaging 4.6 rebounds. Senior point guard Alexis Yackley is second in
the league in assists at 5.09 per game. She is also averaging 3.6 points and
4.9 rebounds. Her 360 assists ranks seventh all-time at USD, just 14 away from
Beth Vilhauer, who had 374 from 1985-89. Yackley also eclipsed the 500-point
mark earlier this season and has 506 overall.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In terms of team
totals, USD ranks first in four categories and second in eight other team
stats. The Coyotes rank second in the Summit League in total points with 1,353,
which breaks out to an average 67.0 points per game (2nd, TSL). The Yotes hold
a 647-to-606 edge in first half points and a 706-to-600 margin in the second
half for an overall victory margin of 7.0 points (64.4-to-57.4). South Dakota
is first in the league with 42.1 rebounds per game, owning a 42.1-to-34.0
advantage against opponents. USD is fourth in field goal percentage at 40.2% by
hitting 503-of-1,250 shots. They are seventh in three-point shooting at 28.2%
(91-of-323) and sixth in free throw shooting at 69.8% on 256-of-367 shooting.
The Coyotes are second in made free throws per game at 12.2 and third in
attempts from the charity strike at 17.5. The Coyotes sit eighth in made
three-pointers per game at 4.3 while they are third in turnovers at 15.4 and
sixth in steals at 8.0 per game. Opponents are hitting 36.7% (433-of-1,179) from
the field, 28.4% (102-of-359) from three-point range and 67.8% (238-of-351)
from the charity strike.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>About the Coaches</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">SDSU Coach <b>Aaron
Johnston</b> In his 13th season as head coach of the South Dakota State University
women's basketball team, Aaron Johnston has taken the Jackrabbit program to the
top of NCAA Division II and is leading SDSU to national prominence at the
Division I level. Johnston, who coached his 400th career game Dec. 16 at Penn
State, enters action with USD on Jan. 30 with a career record of 305-105 (.744
winning percentage). He is the all-time wins leader at SDSU, earlier this
season passing Nancy Neiber, who compiled a 301-140 record in 16 seasons from
1985-2000. Johnston, who is 13-3 vs. South Dakota, posted his 200th career
victory on Dec. 4, 2008, against Centenary (La.), earned his 250th victory
versus Illinois State on Nov. 24, 2010, and logged career win No. 300 against
Kansas City on Jan. 3, 2013. Johnston also has led
the Jackrabbits to a perfect 12-0 mark in Summit League postseason tournament contests
and a 16-8 mark (.667 winning percentage) in postseason games. The Summit
League Coach of the Year in each of the Jackrabbits' first two seasons in the
league and again during the 2011-12 season, Johnston was named a finalist for
the 2009 Naismith Award as the nation's top coach. A native of Pine Island, Minn., "A.J." earned a
bachelor's degree in health and physical education from Gustavus Adolphus
College in St. Peter, Minn. After serving one year as an assistant coach at
North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton, he moved on to SDSU as a
graduate assistant for the Jackrabbit men's basketball team for two seasons
before becoming assistant women's coach. He also coached the SDSU golf teams
one year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">USD head coach
<b>Amy Williams</b> is 11-10 (6-2 in the Summit League) in her first season as the
head women’s basketball coach at the University of South Dakota. Williams,
whose sister Emilee Gusso Thiesse was an assistant for SDSU until taking the
MSU-Mankato job this August, will face SDSU for the second time this season but
the first at the DakotaDome. Williams was named the Coyote head coach on June
4, 2012. Williams, a native of Spearfish, S.D., and a 1998 Nebraska graduate,
has been an assistant coach at the Division I level, including serving as the
top assistant/recruiting coordinator at Oklahoma State from 2001-05, and
holding the same position at Tulsa from 2005-07. For the past five seasons, she
has been the head coach at Rogers State (Okla.). In March of 2007, Williams was
named the first head women’s basketball coach at Rogers State University and
built the program from scratch into an NAIA national contender. In five seasons
at Rogers State, Williams recorded a 97-65 record. Last year, the Hillcats were
22-12 and advanced to the NAIA Final 8 for the first time in school history.
She led the Hillcats to back-to-back NAIA national tournament appearances.
Williams joined the Hillcats after successful coaching stints as the top
assistant and recruiting coordinator at The University of Tulsa and Oklahoma
State University. She previously worked as an assistant at the University of
Texas-San Antonio and was a graduate assistant at the University of
Nebraska-Kearney. Williams was a four-year basketball letter winner at
Nebraska, where she graduated with a degree in biology and mathematics in 1998.
She earned Academic All-Big 12 Conference honors as a senior in 1997-98 and was
named a Phillips 66 Student-Athlete of the Week in 1997. After graduating from
Nebraska, Williams joined the University of Nebraska-Kearney staff as a
graduate assistant, where she earned her master’s degree in sports
administration in 2002. Williams’ family includes her husband, Lloyd, and
daughters Kennadi Capri (age 6) and Bentli Marie (age 2).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Men’s Squads Gather Again on Thursday (Jan. 30) – This Time at Frost</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The University of
South Dakota (8-13, 4-5 Summit League) will face South Dakota State (16-6, 7-2
Summit League) at Frost Arena on Thursday, Jan. 30 for the second of two men’s
basketball match ups between the long-time rivals. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After splitting a pair of
games a year ago, USD won its second straight game against SDSU with a 74-71
win on Jan. 5 at the DakotaDome. In 2011-12, USD won the second of two games last season,
82-78, at the Dome after SDSU rolled to an 86-56 win at Frost Arena. Since a
74-71 loss on the road to the Coyotes, SDSU has won five straight games, including a 69-53 win over North Dakota State on Saturday at Frost Arena, and
moved within a half-game of first place in the Summit League at 7-2. USD, fifth in the league with a 4-5 record, heads
to the Jackrabbit Den where the Jackrabbits have won 26 straight games, just
one away from the school’s all-time mark of 27 straight set in 2002-04. The 26 straight home wins
ranks third in the nation behind Syracuse (34) and Kansas (31).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZBpsnIaZrKM/UQgtQ7UoV0I/AAAAAAAAAII/vjYvLtzhlR0/s1600/SDSUaction-NateWoltersvUSD_36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZBpsnIaZrKM/UQgtQ7UoV0I/AAAAAAAAAII/vjYvLtzhlR0/s320/SDSUaction-NateWoltersvUSD_36.jpg" width="192" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SDSU's Nate Wolters<br />
(courtesy of SDSU)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Jacks Up Close</b> –
SDSU is ranked 18th in the Collegeinsiders.com mid-major poll and bring a 16-6
record (7-2, TSL, 2nd) into the game. The Jacks are led by its all-everything
senior guard Nate Wolters, an All-American candidate, who averages 21.0 points
(2nd, TSL), which ranks ninth nationally. He also averages 5.7 assists (1st,
TSL) and 5.8 rebounds per game (9th, TSL). This season, Wolters has scored 26
points or more six times with a high of 30 points against Alabama (Nov. 9).
Wolters has already set SDSU’s career points record and currently sits with
2,048 while his 590 career assists is second all-time behind Brian Norberg with
605 in 1995-99. Wolters, who is on the Wooden Midseason Top-25 watch list and
the final 20 of the Bob Cousy Award as the nation’s best point guard, was the
only player in DI a year ago with 20 points (21.2), five rebounds (5.9) and
five assists (5.1).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Jacks also
feature junior forward Jordan Dykstra, who averages 12.8 ppg (10th, TSL) and
grabs 6.8 rpg (4th, TSL), and will likely reach 1,000 points (994) in his
career against USD. Dykstra is fourth in the league in 3-point percentage at 45.9
(39-85) and has hit 16-of-36 for 44.4 percent in league play. Junior Tony
Feigen averages 10.5 ppg and 5.7 rpg (10th, TSL), which gives SDSU three of the
top seven individuals in rebounding. The Jacks also feature junior shooting
guard Brayden Carlson, 8.9 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 2.4 apg as well as junior forward
Chad White, 8.9 ppg. White has hit 18-of-43 three-point shots for 41.9 percent
in league play.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">SDSU, which
averages a league-best 72.6 points per game, has made 568-of-1,234 field goals
for a league-best 46.0 percent. Overall, they are first in sixth league
categories and second in five others. The Jacks have made 164-of-444 three
point shots for 36.9 percent, which ranks fourth in the league. They are second
in the league at 74.4% (297-of-399) while ranking fourth in made free throws
per game (13.5) and fifth in attempted free throws (18.1). SDSU is third in
rebounds (34.2), and fourth with 9.9 offensive rebounds per game. Also, SDSU is
first in the Summit in assists (14.5), and ninth in steals (5.0) per game. On
defense, they rank fourth in points allowed (65.9), third in opponent field
goal percentage (44.3%) and fourth in the Summit League in opponents’
three-point percentage (35.0).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">SDSU, which has
outscored opponents, 1,597-to-1,450 or 72.6 to 65.9 per game, has a 777-to-682
points advantage in the first half while building a second half margin of
805-to-754. In OT, SDSU has a 15-14 edge.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Coyotes Up Close</b>
– The Coyotes, which has lost 3-of-4 games since the win over SDSU, lead the
league with 73.2 points per game, sitting fifth in total points 1,538 points
(21 games vs. 22 for SDSU). The Coyotes only win of late was an impressive
97-78 victory over Oakland at the O’rena, where the Grizzlies had won 37-of-40
home games before falling to the Coyotes. USD also ended a 10-game home winning
streak by Oakland.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">South Dakota is
led by senior point guard Juevol Myles, who is averaging 16.0 points per game,
which ranks fourth in the league. He is also averaging 3.2 rebounds and 2.9
assists, and has hit 37-of-111 from the 3-point arc. Myles ranks 22nd
nationally and is the league’s best free throw shooter by hitting 89 percent
from the charity stripe on 105-of-118 shooting. Junior Trevor Gruis is the
Coyotes’ big man inside, averaging 11.6 points and 6.2 rebounds per game with
21 blocks. He has hit 90-of-168 from the field for 53.6 percent. Sophomore
Brandon Bos continues to be one of the league’s biggest surprises by averaging 10.5
points, and 3.6 rebounds per game after seeing limited action a year ago. Bos,
who has 40 assists, has hit 30-of-66 shots for 45.5 percent from three-point
range. Bos, who has made a three-point shot in 15 straight games, is hitting
84.2 percent (48-of-57) from the foul line. He has eight straight double digit
scoring games, including 12 this season and 14 in his career. Junior Karim
Rowson averages 9.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, has 22 steals and 11 blocks in his
first season. Rowson has hit 82.6
percent (76-of-92) from the charity stripe. Freshman Casey Kasperbauer, who is
averaging 8.8 points and 1.7 rebounds per game, is the team’s top long distance
bomber. He has hit a team-high 46 three-point shots on 107 attempts for 43
percent. He is also 10-of-11 from the foul line for 90.9 percent. Kasperbauer
has converted 24-of-43 3-point field goals over the last eight games, which breaks
out to 55.8%. Senior Jordan Boots, who scores 4.1 ppg, has hit 24-of-62
three-point field goals for 38.7 percent. He is also on a 3-point shooting tear,
making 10-of-13 over the past four games. Junior Steve Tecker averages 5.6
points, 3.5 rebounds and is making 50.5 percent from the field (47-of-93). South Dakota has three of the top 10 free throw shooters (Myles, Rowson
and Bos) in the league, which doesn’t include Kasperbauer at 90.9% (doesn’t
qualify due to number of attempts).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Overall, the
Coyotes ranks first in three Summit League statistical categories and are
second in two others. USD ranks second nationally and first in the league in
free throw shooting at 78.6% (353-of-449). The Coyotes are first in free throws
per game (16.8). The Yotes are second in free throws per game (21.4) and second
in three-point shots made per game (7.4). USD averages 19.3 three’s per game
(fourth) and are third in the Summit (28th nationally) in three-point
percentage at 38.2. The Coyotes are fifth in rebounds (31.8), sixth in
offensive rebounds (8.4), fifth in assists (13.0), fourth in turnovers (12.6),
and fourth in steals (6.7). In team defense, USD ranks seventh in the league in
points allowed (76.1) while standing fifth in opponent field goal percentage
(46.0) and opponent three-point field goal percentage (36.2).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">South Dakota is
being outscored this season by a 1,598-to-1,538 margin or 76.1-to-73.2 per
game. Opponents have a 730-to-712 margin in the first half and 868-to-826 in
the second half.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Highs-Lows</b> --
South Dakota has scored a high of 97 points against Oakland on the road with a
low of 50 points vs. #25 Kansas State on Dec. 31. The Coyotes have made 11 3’s
in a game three times and has a season-best 3-point percentage of .579
(11-of-19, UMKC, Jan. 12). The Coyotes set a school record with 43 free throws
(50 attempts) vs. Morehead State on Dec. 19. In addition, USD owns a
season-high 42 rebounds vs. IUPUI on Dec. 1. In terms of individuals, Myles has
a team-high 32 points vs. Morehead State on Dec. 19. Kasperbauer has made five
three-pointers in a game five times, including against Oakland on Jan. 19. In
addition, Tyler Flack had eight blocked shots vs. Waldorf on Nov. 24 whiles
Miles has had a team-high five steals in a game twice including most recently
on Dec. 31 vs. UMKC.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">SDSU recorded a
season high of 96 (96-48 win) points in a win against the District of Columbia
on Nov. 18 and a low point total of 49 vs. Belmont (76-49 loss) on Dec. 19.
They recorded a high of 39 field goals in the win over District of Columbia and
just 17 field goals in the loss to Belmont. The Jacks recorded a season-best
60.7 percent vs. Dakota State, making 34-of-56 shots in the win over Dec. 16.
In the loss to Belmont, they had a season low 27.0 percent (17-of-63). They
have made a season-high 12 3-point field goals (27 attempts) against UMKC on
Thursday and twice have hit 11 - vs. Marshall on Nov. 17 and Minnesota on Dec.
12. The three, 3-point shots (21 attempts) vs. Belmont is a season-low. SDSU
has a season-best 25 made free throws vs. Tennessee State on Nov. 13. In
addition, they recorded a season-best 49 rebounds vs. the District of Columbia.
Individually, Wolters has a high of 30 points against Alabama on Nov. 9.
Dykstra, White, Carlson and Wolters all are tied for a team-high of five
three-point shots in a game. Dykstra has a team-best 13 rebounds (Oakland, Jan.
10) and four blocks (Hofstra, Nov. 16). Wolters also had a team-high five
steals vs. North Dakota on Nov. 28.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>State-U Men's All-time Series</b> –
The two schools have a difference of opinion concerning the all-time series
record. SDSU has the series at 116-89-1 while USD says the totals stand at
92-115. South Dakota won the last game, 74-71, on Jan. 5 and took an 82-78
decision at the DakotaDome in 2011-12. SDSU won the other game in 2011-12 with
an 86-56 decision at Frost Arena. That win by the Jacks was the first match-up
between the schools in nine years. In Vermillion, According to the SDSU media guide, the Jacks owns a 48-31 advantage
(available records) while the Jacks are 64-17-1 at Brookings (based on
available data). USD has won four of the last five games played between the
rivals. USD head coach Dave Boots is 21-18 vs. SDSU, including a 13-6 mark at
the DakotaDome. He is 7-11 at Frost Arena and 11-13 vs. Scott Nagy. SDSU’s Nagy
is 13-11 vs. USD and coach Boots, including 5-7 at the DakotaDome. He is 8-3 at
Frost Arena.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXbsVFlZ8oI/UQgtrblOH1I/AAAAAAAAAIY/srY07icuM4o/s1600/15%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXbsVFlZ8oI/UQgtrblOH1I/AAAAAAAAAIY/srY07icuM4o/s320/15%5B1%5D.jpg" width="209" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USD Head Coach Dave Boots</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Last Time – Jan.
4 – South Dakota 74 SDSU 71</b> – South Dakota, led by 22 points from Juevol Myles,
turned back South Dakota State, 74-71, at the DakotaDome before 5,045 in
attendance. USD also received 16 points from Brandon Bos, 14 from Casey
Kasperbauer and 12 from Trevor Gruis. With the win, head coach Dave Boots won
his 500th career game at USD and his 600th NCAA game. The Coyotes, which led
42-25 at halftime, held off a challenge from the Jacks and Nate Wolters who
finished with 26 points, five rebounds, and five assists. SDSU outscored the
Coyotes, 46-32, in the second stanza. A few keys were the fact that USD made
18-of-19 free throws, including several crucial charity tosses in the final
seconds, as well as won the points in the paint battle, 26-16. USD also had a
12-10 advantage in second chance points and a 10-6 bench scoring edge. This was
the 48th time that a State-U game was decided by a margin of three points.
However, it was the first since 1999 when SDSU won 69-66 in Brookings. In
addition, USD defeated SDSU for the fourth straight time at the DakotaDome. The
Coyotes, which led 42-25 at halftime, held off a challenge from the Jacks and
Nate Wolters who finished with 26 points, five rebounds, and five assists. SDSU
outscored the Coyotes, 46-32, in the second stanza. A few keys were the fact
that USD made 18-of-19 free throws, including several crucial charity tosses in
the final seconds, as well as won the points in the paint battle, 26-16. USD also
had a 12-10 advantage in second chance points and a 10-6 bench scoring edge.
This was the 48th time that a State-U game was decided by a margin of three
points. However, it was the first since 1999 when SDSU won 69-66 in Brookings.
In addition, USD defeated SDSU for the fourth straight time at the DakotaDome</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Close Encounters
of the State-U Kind</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the State-U
rivalry, 48 times a game has been decided by three points or less in the
rivalry with USD owning a 24-23-1 or 25-23 edge in those games depending on which
media guide is reviewed. The difference actual is a couple of games but one
specifically with USD records listing the fourth game in the 1915 season as a
16-15 win. SDSU, which hosted that game, says it was a 15-15 tie. However, no
known box score of the game remains. USD won the other three games in that
first season, although the schools disagree on the final score in two of three
of those games. In total, there have been 17 1-point decisions in State-U
match ups and three overtime games. From Jan. 20, 1977 through Feb. 4, 1978,
SDSU and USD were involved in five straight decisions decided by one or two
points. SDSU won three of those five contests. In that run of games from
1977-to-1978, four of the five games were decided by one point. Of those five games,
two were played in Vermillion, two in Brookings and one in Sioux Falls.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The Coaches</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>S</b></span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>cott Nagy</b> of
</span>SDSU<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> is in his 18th season at South Dakota State after guiding the Jackrabbits
to the NCAA DI Tournament for the first time last season in a 27-8 season,
which included the league tournament title (automatic bid to the NCAA Tourney),
and a 15-3 mark (2nd place) in the Summit League.</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span>SDSU<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, which had qualified for the NCAA </span>DII<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
national tournament eight times, dropped a 68-60 decision to Baylor in the first
round.</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In 2012-13, Nagy’s Jackrabbits
sit 16-6 (7-2 </span>TSL<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">), including a win over then #16 New Mexico at The Pit. Nagy,
who won his 300th career game on Dec. 28, 2011, at Frost Arena, has guided the
Jackrabbits through the transition from Division II?to Division I, built an
impressive 331-204 record (.617 winning percentage) at the Division I and
Division II levels, and guided the Jacks to North Central Conference
championships in 1996, 1997, 1998 and 2002, adding a Summit League Tournament
title in 2012. Nagy, a native of Abilene, Texas, also directed the Jacks to the
NCAA Regional Tournament from 1996-1998 and from 2000-2004 and led the Jacks to
the Elite Eight tournament in 1997.</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">South Dakota Head
Coach <b>Dave Boots</b> has compiled a 501-228 (.691) record at the U, and picked up
his 500th career win at USD in a 74-71 decision over SDSU at the DakotaDome on
Jan. 5. In his career, Boots has compiled a 616-290 (.680) mark, including
601-284 (.679) in NCAA games. Boots, whose 2012-13 squad is 8-13 (4-5 TSL),
built the Coyote program into one of the best in NCAA DII. He helped USD
transition to NCAA DI. USD’s 15th men’s basketball coach, Boots has led South
Dakota to 16 seasons of 20-wins or more. He picked up his 600th career win with
a 69-63 victory over Tabor on Nov. 28, 2011. He was just the 64th coach to
reach that level. At South Dakota, Boots won his 100th game at Northern Colorado (65-45)
in the 1992-93 season; 200th in a home win over Morningside (83-77) in the
1997-98 campaign; 300th at home vs. Jamestown (99-76) in the 2002-03 season;
400th against Minnesota-Duluth (60-56) in the 2006-07 season. Boots, who also
serves as assistant athletic director at USD, directed the Coyotes to six NCC
Championships (1992-93, 1993-94, 1998-99, 1999-2000, 2000-01 and 2006-07), two
North Central Region crowns (1992-93, 1993-94) and two appearances in the NCAA
Division II Elite 8 National Tournament (1992-93, 1993-94). He continued that
at the Division I level with a Great West Conference regular-season and
tournament title in 2010. In total, Boots has guided the program to 10 NCAA DII
national tournament appearances, including five straight from 2003-08. It is a
mark untouched by any previous South Dakota coach. He also guided USD to a
berth in the CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tourney in 2010. His string of
consecutive winning seasons ended at 23 when the Coyotes finished 10-18 (5-13,
8th, Summit League). A year ago, USD was eighth after picked to finish 10th in
the preseason coaches’ poll. </span><span style="font-family: Courier New;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218802771469588582.post-73807003820414123312013-01-09T12:23:00.002-08:002013-01-11T04:27:07.798-08:00South Dakota BB Coach Dave Boots Always Focuses on Moving Forward <br />
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; line-height: 115%;"> </span><i style="font-family: Garamond, serif; line-height: 21px;">I wrote the following blog about Dave Boots last May and it was printed in the RedEye publication by Print Source of Vermillion. With Coach Dave Boots of the University of South Dakota hitting 500 wins at USD and over 600 as an NCAA coach on Jan. 5, 2013, I thought readers might find this piece of interest. The information has been updated including records, etc.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">The
charismatic baseball pitcher Satchel Paige once said: “Don’t look back,
something might be gaining on you.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">It
is a perspective, perhaps, of which University of South Dakota head men’s
basketball coach Dave Boots can relate. During his 25-year coaching tenure,
Boots has never looked back. Since the day he was named the USD’s 15<sup>th</sup>
head basketball coach 25 years ago, Boots has moved forward. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">He
hasn’t been concerned about leaving a legacy, despite putting together an incredible streak of
23 consecutive winning seasons, which ended in 2011-12 (11-18 season). In developing the Coyote program, he has always
kept his focus straight ahead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“We
don’t look back. The most important day is today or tomorrow,” he said. “We are
trying to build something that people will enjoy - something (program) that the
USD community will be proud of.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Boots
has directed a Coyote program, once mired in losing, to its most successful
period in school history. He has compiled the most wins in school history, 500-225,
or a winning percentage of .690. Overall, he is 615-288, with a winning percentage of .681. He picked up his career 500th win at USD and his 600th NCAA win in a 74-71 win over South Dakota State on Jan. 5, 2013 at the DakotaDome. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">When he took over the USD men's basketball, the program had an all-time record of 716-786. The program was in the midst of a long losing streak, having not experienced a winning season in 10 years, since going 16-9 in 1978-79. In fact, the Coyote program was in the midst of eight straight years of sub-.500 seasons. Since a 13-13 season in 1979-80, the Coyotes were 70-149 or a winning percentage of just .319. In fact, USD had just four seasons in eight with double digit wins. Now, all those years later, the all-time men’s basketball record has improved to 1,215-1,009 or a .546 winning percentage. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">During
his tenure, Boots has led USD to 16 20-win seasons and produced 14 of the 15
best seasons (terms of wins and losses) in school history. Prior to Boots’ arrival just one team, the
1958 national championship team under Dwane Clodfelter, had won 20 games
(22-5). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Boots’
Coyotes has made two Elite Eight appearances (1992-93, 1993-94), won seven
conference titles and earned 10 NCAA DII
playoff appearances (five straight from 2003-08), the school’s first NCAA
postseason game (CollegeInsiders.com Tournament). USD has recorded wins over Division I teams
Wyoming, Morehead State and Loyola Maramount as well as had various other close calls vs. NCAA tournament teams. Named a conference coach of the year seven times, Boots
has had 22 players earn Academic All Conference honors, 39 named all-league, and
three selected All-American, including one (Turner Troholz) DII National Player
of the Year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Through his time on the Vermillion campus, Boots worked day-by-day, practice-by-practice to try and incorporate what was needed for the program to grow. In his first season, the Coyotes produced a 17-15 record and a gaggle of winning seasons followed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Now the coach is in the process of developing a winner at the Division I level. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">“It
is going to take us a little longer to get to some of the things we need to do
at this level,” noted Boots. “It isn't something you can just turn around and
do. It takes you time to get your program up where it can be a competitive DI
program.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Attaining
success, says Boots, requires buy-in by everyone involved in the program, from
the coaching staff to the players. They have to be passionate and dedicated. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“I
have had incredibly good assistant coaches, like Joey James and Chris Kassin
now, and all the way through,” he said. “I have been very fortunate that some
of them played for me. That is one of the most enjoyable things I have had
here, to watch guys play here, become coaches for us and then move on,” said
Boots, noting that in 24 years, he has had 25 assistants or players move on to
make their own way in coaching. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“It
is really pleasing that they are part of us and remain part of us. The coaches
in the NBA D League All Star Game this year (2011-12) were Nate Tibbetts and Nick Nurse,
a former player and former assistant. They are both great guys who have great
futures. To see Shane Murphy, John Hemenway and others do what they are doing
is special. To see (former player) Ben Ries do what he is doing at Norfolk is
tremendously pleasing. You see them grow, have families and become good
fathers.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">He
is appreciative of dedicated student-athletes who have come in and made a
commitment on and off the court. “Even as we move up, we still believe we need
to get some of those same type of kids we have been getting – their character, their desire to get a
degree, go to class, be good citizen, all that. That always has to be the main
focus.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Boots’
perspective on thinking for today and tomorrow and not yesterday continues to
provide the program with positive direction. Yet, every day brings a fresh
challenge. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“We
have certainly had our bumps in the road during this transition and it is going
to get tougher than it has been as we proceed in the Summit League. There is a lot left to be done. We do not kid
ourselves. Believe me. We know what has to be done, how much work it is going
to take, how much luck we are going to have to have in it, patience. There are
no quick fixes,” he said. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">While
he hones in on what lies ahead, Coach Boots also knows his USD tenure has
included many special moments and many more await time and circumstance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">One
of the early moments recalled by Boots was South Dakota’s win over North Dakota
in the NCC Postseason Tournament at Sioux Falls in the 1989-90 season. The
Coyotes, who finished 22-10 and earned its first NCAA Tournament appearance
since 1971-72, upended a North Dakota team ranked #1 in the country in the tournament
semifinals, 75-73. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“That
was just our second year here,” recalled Boots. “We had Mike Graves, Tim Hatchett
and Sam Goodhope.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">USD
trailed 41-35 at halftime but rallied to tie the game at 64-64 with 6:08 to
play. With seven seconds left, USD’s Brad Fifield hit a game-tying jump shot to
force overtime. Then, Hatchett, who along with Goodhope, both scored 20 points,
hit a jumper to provide USD with its first lead of the game. Later in OT, Fifield
hit a short jumper with a minute to play to break the tie as USD advanced. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">The
next night USD defeated Mankato State, 69-59, to win the tourney title and earn
an NCAA berth. “We were trying to
establish our program – early in that stage -- and that (UND game) was a really
big win for us,” said Boots.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Another
significant victory was USD’s 66-64 regional final conquest of UND in 1992-93.
Despite winning the league, USD was forced to go on the road.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“The
game went back and forth and once again we had a really good team with Chris
Jones, (Randy) Rosenquist and (Troy) Terronez, (Shane) Murphy, Mark Andres,
John Brenegan, and Mike Kloth. Somehow we got that game into overtime and won
it with a basket by Rosenquist with five or six seconds to go,” said Boots,
whose team finished 25-5 and 16-2 in the NCC.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">In
the game, USD led, 41-35, before UND had a 22-11 run that produced a 57-52
lead. With 1:26 to go, Murphy hit a three-point shot to tie the game. Then
Rosenquist hit arguably the biggest shot of his career to send South Dakota to
the Elite Eight for the first time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Another
game that sticks with Boots is the 100-96 triple-overtime loss to New Hampshire
in the first round of the Elite Eight that same season. “It was a game we
thought we had in hand or were in position to win,” said Boots, noting that USD
led by four with a minute to go and had possession of the ball. “We didn’t make
some plays that we need to make, like not getting a stop when we needed to,”
said Boots. “That one is always going to be with us.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Another
important game was the 61-58 verdict over North Dakota State in the 1993-94
regional final at the DakotaDome. It was the first time USD had hosted a
regional final at the Dome. NDSU had beaten USD, 82-63, late in the season,
which forced USD to defeat North Dakota (80-71) the next night to win the
conference title outright for the second straight season. The Coyotes, which
finished 24-5, were dominating the league until losing star forward Chris Jones
to injury with 10 games left in the season. Jones was hurt during pre-game
warm-ups prior to an 88-81 win over SDSU in Brookings. Following that game, USD
scored 100 points in four consecutive wins. However, the loss of Jones was a
big blow. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“He
was a big loss for us because he was certainly a talented player, our leading
scorer, someone in the lineup who made everyone better. So, we were a little
shorthanded to finish that year,” said Boots. “Those kids really rose to the
occasion and won the league and the regional,” he said. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">While
USD did not win a national title during that unforgettable two-season run, the
team had an overall record of 49-11, including a dominating 31-5 mark in NCC
play.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Boots
also remembers USD’s heart-breaking 77-76 double overtime loss to UND in the
Great West Conference Tournament finals last March. USD, which finished 18-15 on
the season, had an up and down season but had upset the top-seeded Utah Valley
State to get into position for its second straight league title. Then they fell
behind UND late and rallied. “We made some good tough plays to get it into
overtime and then we couldn’t convert simple plays which ended up costing us
dearly,” said Boots. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“I
can’t remember them all,” said Boots of all the memorable games and moments his
teams experienced while he has directed the basketball ship. “We had a lot of
great games with SDSU and others,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Two victories that will surely stick with Boots are the home wins over a favored SDSU team in 2011-12 (72-68) and 2012-13 (74-71). In both games against SDSU, which made the NCAA DI Tourney a year ago and favored to win the Summit League in 2012-13, the Coyotes built a big lead and fought off a charge from the Jacks and their All-American Nate Wolters. The Coyotes made plays down the stretch, exhibiting unrelenting energy and heart. "He (Wolters) is a great player and that is a great team. I am really proud of my team," he said after the most recent victory on Jan. 5. Boots is 21-18 all-time vs. SDSU, incluidng a 13-6 mark at the DakotaDome.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">Obviously,
Boots, who has coached 725 games at the U, can’t recall details of every big game,
although some plays forever stay imprinted in the memory bank. One such play involved Luke Tibb</span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif;">etts and Josh Mueller in a
dramatic 79-78 win over North Dakota at the DakotaDome in the 2002-03 season. In
a tight contest, UND hit a shot with just four-tenths of a second to play.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“Down
two, Luke ran across the baseline threw back across his body all the
way to the opposite corner to Josh. We set up a back screen for him (Mueller) and he
caught it, and as he is turning, threw it up and it went in,” said Boots.
“There were a lot of people who had already left the game and I am not sure
everyone in attendance that night saw the play.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">According
to Boots, those games and moments are really what comprise tradition. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“Games
are part of their (players) lives,” he said. “Even though this (playing at
USD) is a short part of their life, it is something that shapes them. I look at
tradition that way a lot more than accomplishments (wins and losses),” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif";">“Some of those games stay with those kids a
long time. I know they stay with coaches a long time. It shapes them a little
bit; it helps them deal with some of the tough times they might have down the
road. Not everything goes your way, so you have to be able to deal with the
tough times as well and survive them; learn from them,” said Boots.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The Genzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11373717771969048143noreply@blogger.com0