By Jay Klein, Boys’ Basketball Coach
The Kimball boys’ basketball team traveled to Pierz last Tuesday, Jan. 19, for a Central Minnesota Conference matchup. The Cubs started out shooting well, jumping to an early 15-7 lead, with Alex Fischer scoring 12 of their points. The Pioneers slowly crept back and took a 4-point lead at the half (25-21).
In the second half, the game stayed close until Pierz went on a run to lead by 12. The Cubs’ late rally fell short, as they lost their second conference game by a score of 46-40.
Alex Fischer led the Cubs in the scoring column with 14 points. Austin Ruehle tossed in 8. Fischer also led the team in rebounding with 14, in blocks with two, and in steals with two. Dillon Menson handed out four of the Cubs’ eight assists. Shooting continued to be a problem for the Cubs as they were 17 of 51 (33 percent) from the field and four of nine (44 percent) from the charity stripe. The Cubs are now 5-5 on the season and 2-2 in the conference.
Cubs lose heartbreaker
The Kimball boys’ basketball team hosted the Rockford Rockets last Friday night, Jan. 22, in what would eventually turn out to be a thriller. Kimball started out slow, struggling to make shots from the perimeter. A late surge cut the Rockets’ lead to four at the half (22-26).
The game remained close throughout the second half, with both teams having a number of chances to win the game. With about eight seconds left, and Rockford having possession of the ball, the Rockets called a timeout to set up a play. Rockford had the ball underneath the basket for a shot, but Pat Libbesmeier came up with a big block that sent the game into overtime tied at 53 all. Each team had chances in the overtime, as well. However, Rockford made a shot with 4.8 seconds left to earn the victory over the Cubs 60-58.
Neil Helgeson and Dillon Menson led the Cubs in scoring, with 16 and 13 points respectively. Menson also had nine rebounds and four steals. Helgeson dished out four assists.
The Cubs are now 5-6 on the season and 2-3 in the conference. Their game with Norwood-Young America for Saturday, Jan. 23, was postponed because of weather, and will be made up at a later date.