The third quarter proved to be the difference in a Region 3A SoDak 16 qualifying game between the Tri-Valley Mustangs and West Central Trojans on Thursday, February 27th. The Trojans used the third quarter to help them to a 50-44 win.
The Mustangs started the game on a 6-0 run and led the entire first quarter. They held a 15-12 lead after the first quarter of play. Their lead grew to 23-16 about midway through the second quarter. West Central ended the quarter on an 8-0 run for a 24-23 lead at halftime.
The Trojans would start the second half with a 6-0 run to extend their lead to 30-24. The Mustangs were able to cut the deficit to 31-30, the the Trojans responded. West Central finished third quarter with a 9-0 run to take a 40-30 lead into the fourth quarter. The Mustangs made a rally, but could only get as close as 48-44 late in the game.
Tri-Valley shot 31% (15-49) overall, 30% (9-30) from three-point area, and 5-8 from the free-throw line. West Central shot 43% (16-37) from the field overall and 20% (3-15) on three-point attempts. Their big advantage came on the free-throw line. They finished the game shooting 15-19.
Kacey Jaton had 23 points, two rebounds, and three steals. Abbi Thornton finished with 10 points and six rebounds. Ellie Knight added seven points, 10 rebounds, five assists, and three steals. Ayla Kramer had four points, three rebounds, two assists, and three steals.
