The Dell Rapids Quarriers (13-2) made the long trip north to Aberdeen to play the Aberdeen Christian Knights on Saturday, February 4th. The Quarriers gave the Knights their first loss of the season in a 59-51 victory.
Aberdeen Christian came ready to play one of the top teams in Class A basketball and held a 13-12 lead after the first quarter. Dell Rapids got into a groove in the second quarter and took the lead. The Quarriers had a 30-25 advantage at halftime. Dell Rapids pushed the lead to double digits in the third quarter, but the Knights were within seven, 44-37, going into the fourth quarter.
Dell Rapids was held scoreless for over three and a half minutes of the fourth quarter. Aberdeen Christian, however, was only able to cut the lead down to four points in that time. The Knights, however, did build some excitement in the closing minute. Trailing 53-46 the Knights made two free throws, then stole the inbound pass and hit a three-point basket. With just :43 to play, the Dell Rapids lead was down to 53-51. The Quarriers would calmly make six straight free throws to put the game away.
Brayden Pankonen had 30 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. Jake Henry finished with 14 points, four rebounds, and two assists. Camden Justice added eight points. Rhett Kloth had four points and 13 rebounds. Tad Tjaden had three points with four rebounds.
