(Atlantic) The Atlantic boys’ basketball team started off the week on a high note with a 62-57 win over Clarinda on Tuesday night at Atlantic. Both teams were hungry for a win, and both squads left everything out of the floor in this one.
Gavin McLaren led all scorers for Atlantic with 20-points. Kale Jensen finished the game with 14. Nolan Wagoner led the Cardinals with 18, Ryan Wagoner followed with 8.
The game played out close from start to finish. Gavin McLaren had a terrific first quarter for the Trojans with 11 of the teams 15 points. Nolan Wagoner and Cooper Baumgart led the visitors to an 18-15 lead with six, and five points respectively. Wagoner picked up the pace in the second quarter scoring eight of the team’s ten points, heading into the break with a slight 28-24 lead.
The Trojans tied the game at 30 early in the third quarter, and it was game on. Grant Petty buried two three-point baskets, and Sawyer Tarrell splashed down another one from long range. The Trojans went on a 5-0 mini-run and led 40-25 late in the third quarter. Ryan Wagoner knocked down a bomb to close the gap to 40-37 at the end of the third frame.
The Trojans built a 46-30 lead early in the fourth quarter. Corbin Ritter nailed a key three-point basket, and Hudson McLaren splashed another long-range bomb. However, Warner fired back-to-back three-point baskets, and the Cardinals pulled within a point 49-48. The Trojans made it two possession game late, 58-53 before polishing off the victory with a 62-57 win.
Atlantic Head Coach Dalton Franken praised his squad for their effort.
Franken noted the team’s shooting, and some key three-point shots down the stretch.
Coach Franken stated afterwards, Gavin McLaren first quarter offense was a difference maker in the contest.
The Trojans now 1-2 on the season host Creston on Friday night. Clarinda, 1-4, are at home against Glenwood.
Coach Frankens entire interview is posted below:
