The difference at the free-throw line was the big difference in the Tri-Valley Mustangs (5-8) win over the Madison Bulldogs on Monday, January 30th. The Mustangs secured a 52-48 win from the free-throw line late in the game.
The Mustangs had a lead at the end of each of the quarters, but had to make a run in the fourth quarter for the win. Tri-Valley led 15-11 at the end of the first quarter and 24-21 at halftime. Madison took the lead late in the third quarter, but the Mustangs got the final two points for a 39-38 lead heading into the fourth quarter.
The Bulldogs started the fourth quarter on a 5-0 run for a 43-39 lead. The Mustangs counted with a 7-0 run to retake the lead 46-43 with 2:15 to play. After a 46-46 tie, the Mustangs were able to get to the free-throw line and make enough free-throws to hold off the Bulldogs for the win.
Tri-Valley shot 31% (16-52) from the field overall, 32% (6-19) from three-point area, and 52% (14-27) from the free-throw line. Madison shot 35% (17-49) overall, 33% (5-15) on three-point attempts, and 50% (9-18) from the free-throw line. The extra five made free-throws by Tri-Valley proved to be the difference in the game.
Lauren Grinde had 26 points, five rebounds, and three steals. Steph Buchmann finished with 16 points and five rebounds. Ava Pearson had five points, six rebounds, and four blocked shots. Madelyn Wenzel added four points and six rebounds.
