Photo taken and used with permission by Sara Stadem
The Tri-Valley Mustangs (11-10) advanced to the next round of the Region 3A Tournament after 57-40 win over the McCook Central/Montrose Fighting Cougars in the opening round on Tuesday, February 21st. This was the second straight game against the Fighting Cougars for Tri-Valley. The Mustangs won their last match-up to end the regular season 63-44 on February 13th.
The second quarter proved to be the turning point in the game for Tri-Valley. The Mustangs led just 11-10 at the end of the first quarter, but Tri-Valley outscored the Fighting Cougars 17-4 in the second quarter for a 28-14 halftime lead. Tri-Valley was able to maintain a comfortable lead throughout the rest of the game. They led 39-27 going into the fourth quarter.
The Mustangs shot 35% (20-57) from the field overall, 28% (5-18) on three-point attempts, and 57% (12-21) from the free-throw line. McCook Central/Montrose shot 25% (14-56) overall, 18% (2-11) from three-point area, and 67% (10-15) from the free-throw line. The Mustang defense also forced 22 turnovers.
Madelyn Wenzel had 11 points, five rebounds, and three steals. Hailey Sorenson also had 11 points with four rebounds. Emery Pearson ended with 10 points, six rebounds, and two blocks. Lauren Grinde finished with nine points, seven rebounds, and two assists. Ava Pearson added five points and five rebounds. Mattie Huwe and Abigail Wagner both had four points and four rebounds each.
