The Patriots advance in the 1st Round of the 281 Conference Tournament by defeating the Wessington Springs Spartans 62-53. A slow start once again in the 1st quarter, put the Patriots down 12-9 after 1. But another big 2nd quarter had the Patriots up 30-24 at halftime. The 3rd quarter was back and forth, with the Patriots holding a 4 point lead going into the 4th. Big baskets by TJ Salmen and a couple by Jackson Maynard helped the Patriots push the lead with a few minutes left. The Spartans were not done, as a few timely steals and turnovers by the Patriots, made the game within reach with 2 minutes left to play. But the Patriots were able to go 9 for 11 from the FT line to finish out the game and give the Patriots the 1st Round win.
The Patriots were led by 4 players in double figures. Carter Binger had 15 points, 10 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal. Next up was Jackson Maynard with 14 points and 6 rebounds. Riley Fliehe finished with 11 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 steal. Erik Salmen scored 10 points and had 6 rebounds. TJ Salmen finished with 6 points, 9 rebounds, and 1 blocked shot. Brendan Nowell rounded out the scoring with 5 points, 2 rebounds, and 1 assist.
The Patriots will go on to play #1 Seed Wolsey-Wessington on Tuesday in the 2nd Round of the 281 Conference Tournament. Game will be played at James Valley Christian at 5pm.