Region 3A: Garretson @ Tri-Valley
This was one of two playoff games in region 3A as region play in Class A kicked off. The Try-Valley Mustangs played host to the Garretson Blue Dragons with the winner to face #5 ranked Dell Rapids. The last time these two team met was the first game of the year in which Tri-Valley won a closely contested game 46-40. Tonight started off similar but the result was not as close.
The Mustangs got off to a solid start up 8-4 on some baskets inside by Jacob Kasowski and some drives by Noah Jewett. Both teams struggle to find a rhythm but the Mustangs found it sooner than the Blue Dragons. Led by Jewett, the home team opened up a 20 point 1st half lead. They pushed the ball in transition and scored on posts ups or pick and roll opportunities. Garretson missed some open looks and some tough shots around the rim. Tri-Valley was solid on the glass and limited Garretson to one shot and no chance for a offensive rebound.
To start the 2nd half Garretson tried to get things going to the rim using a pick and roll involving Drew Blosmo. They were able to create some paint touches but missed shots or had a poor pass that led to transition points for the Mustangs. Jewett led all scorers with 19 points and did not even play the 4th quarter as the game was well in hand and Tri-Valley was victorious 58-32.
Garretson hung tough and some of their younger guys competed hard off the bench in the 4th quarter. Tri-Valley was able to get some role players more minutes as they used the end of the game to fine tune some things as they prepare for #5 ranked Dell Rapids.
Tr-Valley vs Dell Rapids will take place on Friday night in Sioux Falls at the Elmen Center. Game time is scheduled for 8:00pm. Winner will advance to the Sweet 16.